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Maintaining system security

Using the override terminal

An override terminal exists for root in case the security databases become corrupted and all logins are disallowed. This is a special entry in the file /etc/default/login. The entry identifies the tty to be used when doing an override login for root. The default entry (shown below) permits root to log in on /dev/tty01, also known as the first multiscreen on the console. You can change this default to be another login device.

   OVERRIDE=tty01
When the databases are compromised and root logs in on the override terminal, this message is displayed:
   The security databases are corrupt.
   However, login at terminal tty is allowed.
When the account is locked and root logs in on the override terminal, this message is displayed:
   Account is disabled but console login is allowed.
The tty used should be physically secure; remember that normal terminal locks do not apply to the superuser account on this tty.
Next topic: Automatic database checking and recovery: tcbck(ADM)
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© 2003 Caldera International, Inc. All rights reserved.
SCO OpenServer Release 5.0.7 -- 11 February 2003