Become an Admin in Terminal Using the Privileges App on a Mac

Questions

  • How can I use the Privileges app to become an admin in Terminal on macOS?
  • What steps should I follow to gain admin rights using the Privileges app?
  • How do I run a sudo command in Terminal when I am a standard user?
  • How do I give up admin rights after using Terminal?
  • How long do temporary admin privileges last on a Mac?

Environment

This article is meant for Bowdoin faculty and staff who use macOS and need admin rights in Terminal.

Resolution

  1. Start with Terminal closed.
  2. Locate the Privileges app on your macOS desktop, or search for it in the Applications folder. Double-click to open it.
  3. Once the app is open, select the button labeled Request Admin Privileges. This grants you temporary admin rights.
  4. To confirm the change took effect, look at the Privileges app in the Dock. It will change from green to yellow with an open padlock. This confirms you have admin privileges.
  5. Now that you have admin rights, open Terminal from your Applications folder, by using Spotlight Search (press Command + Space and type Terminal), or by navigating to Applications - Utilities - Terminal.app.
  6. In Terminal, you can now run commands that require admin rights. Start your command with sudo to execute it with these privileges.
  7. When you are done, return to the Privileges app and select the button to give up admin rights and revert to standard mode. If you forget this step, admin permissions will be automatically removed in 15 minutes.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
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