What is the Default Password for Debian Install: A Comprehensive Guide

Debian is a popular Linux distribution that is known for its stability and versatility and to make the user’s information secure, Debian allows its users to set the password on their machines. 

Default passwords are usually set up during the installation process of Debian. 

These default passwords can be set either during the installation of Debian on the computer or when the user logs into Debian for the first time. Both methods of setting up the default passwords are explained in this blog. 

How to Set Up the Default Password for Debian During Installation?

When the installation process of Debian on the computer proceeds, it will ask the user to set a password. This password should be strong by the combination of the “symbol”, “numbers”, and “upper-case/lower-case alphabets”.

Users can also skip the step of setting a password during the installation and can set it later when it is the first time log in. 

How to Set Up the Default Password for Debian Upon First Login?

If the password is not set up during the installation process, then it will ask the user to set it upon the first login. When the user tries to log in for the first time, it will ask to enter the new password and then retype it for confirmation of the password. 

The password has been set up and can be used to log in to Debian on the computer. 

What is Debian’s 12  Default Password?

There is no specific default password of any Debian distribution and is supposed to be set either during the installation or at first login. But surprisingly, Debian 12 contains the default password of the “changeme” which can be used to log in to Debian 12 on the computer. 

However, for security reasons, it is recommended to change the password as early as possible to make your system and its information secure. 

What is the Method to Change the Default Password on the Debian?

The default password can be changed either by using the terminal or using the GUI approach. 

To change the password using the command-line method, launch the terminal using the CTRL+ALT+T:

Then change the default password for the user with the execution of the command:

$ sudo passwd paul

The password has been changed. If the GUI approach is used, then open the Settings of the Debian and navigate to the “Users”:

Click on the User and change the password:

Conclusion

When Debian is installed on the computer, a password is required to set it up either during installation or on the first login. Debian 12 contains the default password of “changeme” which can be changed later for securing the computer information. This blog explains the default password of Debian and methods to change it as well.