How to run applications with elevated privilges in Ubuntu using the GUI

Question

Is it possible to launch an application with elevated privilidges using the GUI in Ubuntu 9.04? Maybe something similar to the right-click / "Run as Administrator" in Windows Vista?

For example, I want to use gedit to modify a system configuration file. Once I find the file in the File Browser, is there a way to use the GUI to open the file without having to open a terminal and using sudo?

Solution

Alt-F2 to open Ubuntu's equivalent to the Run dialog. Then type gksudo gedit /path/to/config/file and hit enter. Alternatively, create a launcher on your desktop or gnome-panel that launches gksudo.

edit: This article says to install nautilus-gksu for the right-click open-as-root option.

Comments

[D'Arvit]

Without type, using the mouse

[regan]

You'll still end up having to type a password, but the article I linked to has mostly-mouseful methods.

[Chrisbux]

nautilus-gksu was exactly what I was looking for. Thanks!

[Chrisbux]

I don't see the script you are writing about. Could you please share the name if you find it in case others are interested in this topic as well?