os.getlogin() Error

[Wildman]

On Fri, 05 May 2017 09:58:02 +1000, Chris Angelico wrote:

> On Fri, May 5, 2017 at 9:50 AM, Wildman via Python-list
> <python-list at python.org> wrote:
>> I'm afraid that won't work.  The user environment is different
>> than root.  A different set of variables.  However you have
>> given me a possible workaround.  You can't create a variable
>> for root unless you are root so that approach is out.  But
>> it might be possible to create the variable for the user
>> and access it as root.  I don't have a lot of experience
>> using os.environ, but I am going to at it closer.
> 
> When you start a subprocess, it inherits your environment. So you can
> create an environment variable for yourself, then start the other
> process.

I solved this problem by passing the user name to the second
instance as a command line argument.  Works perfectly.  It
escapes me why I didn't think of this sooner.  I solved the
os.login problem by not using os.login, since I no longer
need it. :-)

> But read Cameron's cautionary notes and basically just don't do this.
> 
> ChrisA

It has been my experience that Linux users tend to be a little
more conscious of security matters and know what the implications
are when doing anything as root.  I expect the user will know the
risks if they choose to restart the program as root.  I believe
in user choice.

Thanks again for your replies.

-- 
<Wildman> GNU/Linux user #557453
The cow died so I don't need your bull!