Permissions problem with Linux

coolclay

I am still learning how to use mandrake linux but I came across a small problem, I tried moving some files from my floppy drive to /usr/local/src but everytim I do an error comes up saying "you do not have permissions to write to this folder". Why don't I? I didn't even know mandrake linux had permissions, and why don't I have full permission. I am using this http://www.linuxforums.org/tutorials/1/tutorial-19957.html Howto page to learn how to install programs and I followed the directions but for some reason I can't seem to get permission to move the files there.
Thanks for the help, Clayton

Ranfaroth

coolclay

I figure out that much but shouldn't I already be the "root administrator" I did install it, and I am the only user. How do I change it, I went into the System configuration but couldn't find any options that would fix it, and make me the root administrator?

Ranfaroth

lbs

Find out what program you are using to copy files, then, open a terminal, type "sudo your-command" without the quotes and replace your-command with the name of the program or command you want to run. Ex "sudo cp /mnt/floppy/myfile /usr/local/src" It will ask you for the administrator password and then copy! BTW, sudo stands for "Super User
DO"

Helios

or if you can do it this way.

why? for example I didn't install sudo on my Debian..

anyway,
goto the text mode(rulezzzz):

]$ su root
passowrd: .....

]# cp -f /mnt/floppy/file /usr/local/src
]# exit
]$ exit