First off I am very new to Linux. My goal is to use the Linux box to serve divx files to my media center which is running 2000. When I follow directions on setting up samba they require changes to the config file which is found in the root folders section. My problem at this point is that when I make changes I cant save them. I assume I need root privleges. I try to login as root but am told by the system that root login is not allowed. How do I change to root and stay that way untill I am satified with the changes? Tried to search man pages but found no clues.

For info. this is a hard drive install with sudo knoppix installer first choice for beginners. Knoppix 3.7.
Should I have chosen a different install selection such as the debain style one (old way)?
I have other questions latter related to shared folders but need to get past this first.

Thanks in advance.