It seems to be true for important operations. To install programs, yes. It's a good way to make sure nothing can be installed without your knowledge (i.e. virus, key-logger, zombie, etc.). To add/remove/move files, no. It never gets in the way of a normal workflow in my experience. And I move a ton of files around every day.
It's probably so beginners can't completely mess up their new computer, without having to at least think about it first. I'd guess it springs from decades of tried and true Unix methodology. Why else?
The real question may be in the difference between an admin and non-admin user. I've never set up a non-admin user account, but I'm guessing they wouldn't have access to any critical files even with their password.
G
On Mar 18, 2011, at 11:23 AM, Rob wrote:
> What is the difference of root and admin? Is it true all users on OS x are admin and have to use sudo command or password to get root and then release those privileges after doing action.
>
> Do you need a password to install ,remove or modify any program ,file or software on the computer?
>
> What about making networking or system setting changes ?
>
> Well so you are a user a admin that has to use sudo command or password to get root acess to do those actions.
>
> I seen 2 Mac users using a password to make networking or system setting changes why is that?
