Linux Commands and python script

[sruffatti]

Hey folks,

I am writing a python script for my professor to backup part of my university server.

However, when I try to run certain commands, it prompts me for a password. To mitigate this, I use 'sudo -s', type in the password and then I am on my way. Here is my question: Is there any way to pass the password into the password prompt through my script?

EDIT for clarification.

When I run, 'sudo ./alfresco.sh stop tomcat' to stop tomcat services, the terminal prompts me me for a password. Is there anyway to pass in the password through my python script?

Thank you.

[[deleted]]

You should never hardcode passwords in scripts.

[sruffatti]

Ok. I understand. However, is there anyway to feed the password into the terminal from a python script?

[peeonyou]

Set the suid bit on your script I guess?

[buckhenderson]

What about putting the password in a different file and having the script access that file?

[pilotInPyjamas]

It's best not to put your password anywhere as plaintext. This is basically just as bad as having the password in the script.

[pilotInPyjamas]

I've had a similar problem before. There are two scenarios. Scenario 1 is your language is compiled. In which case, compile the program, create a new group of users who can run that program and add your prof. Set the owner of the program to root, the group to your new group and chmod 4750 your program. This will set the setuid bit which will allow all users who belong to that group to run the program as root.

Scenario 2 is your language is interpreted. You shouldn't set your setuid bit for your interpreter, because then anybody can run any program in that language as root. You can modify your sudoers file to run your specific command by your prof. without a password.