Linux: Add user to sudo List

Managing sudo access is an important task for Linux administrators. Instead of logging in directly as root, it is considered a best practice to grant administrative privileges to individual users using sudo.

This article explains how to:

• Add a user to the sudo list
• Configure sudo timeout settings
• Safely edit the sudoers file using visudo
• Switch to the new privileged user 

Why Use sudo Instead of Root?

Using sudo provides several advantages:

• Better security
• Command auditing
• Reduced risk of accidental system damage
• Controlled privilege escalation
• Individual accountability for administrative actions

Instead of sharing the root password, each user can use their own credentials.

Important: Never Edit sudoers Directly

The /etc/sudoers file controls sudo access.

Never edit this file using standard editors like:

• vi
• vim
• nano

Direct editing can corrupt the file if multiple administrators edit simultaneously or if syntax errors are introduced.

Step 1 – Open sudoers File

Run:

sudo visudo

Step 2 – Navigate to Bottom of File
Inside the editor: Press Shift + G
This moves the cursor to the end of the document.

Step 3 – Enter Insert Mode
Press: i
This enables editing mode.

Step 4 – Configure sudo Timeout

Add the following line at the bottom of the file:

Defaults timestamp_timeout=1800

Step 5 – Add User to sudo Privileges
Locate the section containing:
root ALL=(ALL) ALL
Below that line, add:
myuserid ALL=(ALL) ALL
Note:Replace myuserid with your actual Linux username.

Step 6 – Save and Exit
Press:ESC
Then type::wq
Press Enter.
This will: Save the file and Exit the editor

Step 7 – Switch to the New User
Now switch from the current user (example: opc) to the new sudo-enabled user.
su - myuserid

Verify sudo Access
Run a simple sudo command:
sudo whoami