Thread: "cd" doesn't take effect when running in script, but does in console

  1. #1
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    Talking "cd" doesn't take effect when running in script, but does in console

    I am sure it is a silly question but here is what I am doing:

    # pwd
    /root/bin

    # echo "cd /" > foo

    # sh foo

    # pwd
    /root/bin


    How can I make foo script file to change the directory to "/"


    Thanks,
    Rami

  2. #2
    and the hat of int overfl Salem's Avatar
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    I hope your browser isn't running as root as well.

    You need to 'source' the script if you want it to take effect in the current environment.

    So rather than
    # sh foo

    You would do
    # source foo
    or
    # . foo
    If you dance barefoot on the broken glass of undefined behaviour, you've got to expect the occasional cut.
    If at first you don't succeed, try writing your phone number on the exam paper.

  3. #3
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    thx salem. it worked

    I am the root.
    what do you mean "I hope your browser isn't running as root as well."

    --Rami

  4. #4
    and the hat of int overfl Salem's Avatar
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    As in, you lazily did
    # firefox &

    Now, your browser is running as root, which means anything which manages to compromise your browser will also be running as root. At that point, it's "bye bye" machine, and you're looking for your install disks.
    If you dance barefoot on the broken glass of undefined behaviour, you've got to expect the occasional cut.
    If at first you don't succeed, try writing your phone number on the exam paper.

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