Which account to use ? Root or a new user account

[TeachMeLinux]

Hi

I am totally new to Linux, and have set it up on a spare computer at home. I am the only one that will ever use this linux unless someone kicks down my house door and decides to sit on my computer and surf the web.

Basically, I have setup a new user account on Linux which I was using to surf the web and to install programs. However, when running some programs (firestarter) it askes in a pop up box for the root password. Which got me thinking - "Why the hell dont I just log on as root and work with that logon ? "

So, I just wanted to find out from you guys if it is advisable to work under the "root" logon on the system since I am the only one working on this computer.

Any advice ?
Thanks in advance

[JordanN]

No; you should only use the root account when absolutely necessary.

This philosophy helps prevent accidents, because the administrator is reminded to think when prompted for the password.

[lazlow]

If one would get some malware or whatever, as long as one was not root it could only hurt the stuff in the users directory. If one was root the entire system would be compromised. A very rare occasion IMHO.

Good Luck
Lazlow

[jim]

leave the root account alone do everything as your self
create a backup userid add yourself and the backup to the sudoers file