How can I force 10.04 to automatically log me in (non-GUI soltion ideally)?

Question

I am trying to get my installation of 10.04 to automatically log me in at start up. I tried to apply this method http://www.linuxjournal.com/article/3121 but after creating the script there, I was unable to edit the /etc/inittab file as there is not one present. Apparently this is because Ubuntu does not use this method and instead uses 'upstart'. Is there a similar way to auto login with Ubuntu??

Answer 1

According to the fine manual, you need to edit /etc/gdm/custom.conf in 10.04. If you can live with a GUI solution, then:

1. Load the Gnome Administration utility by clicking on System -> Administration -> Login Screen Settings
2. Unlock the window by hitting the unlock button (you will be asked the administrator password)
3. Enable the checkbox for Log in as UserName automatically (Select your User Name from the drop-down list of users)