How do I change my iPhone root password?

Jailbreakers everywhere should be aware that the default root password from Apple is "alpine" and presents a security threat if SSH is installed. SSH can be uninstalled or switched off when not in use, however changing the password once will solve the problem.

To change your root password and help prevent unauthorized access to your iPhone:

1. Install the MobileTerminal package using Cydia.

2. Run the Terminal app.

3. Type "su root" without the quotes and touch return.

4. Type the root password "alpine" and touch return.

5. You are now logged in as root. Type "passwd" and touch return.

6. Enter your desired new password. You won't see the characters. Touch return and the iPhone will prompt you to retype the new password. Enter the new password again.

7. Type "exit" and touch return.

After you change your root password you should consider changing the password for the user "mobile" as well. This will further protect your data.

1. Run the Terminal app. You are now logged in as mobile.

2. Type "passwd" and touch return.

3. Type the mobile password "alpine" and touch return.

3. Enter your desired new password. You won't see the characters. Touch return and the iPhone will prompt you to retype the new password. Enter the new password again.

Users who do not have jailbroken iPhones don't need to worry about changing the default root password on their devices. SSH is not installed and there's no terminal application to change the password.

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