[SOLVED] cannot format my drive or find the root password in order to install or uninstall so

camper · 01-23-2014, 03:06 PM

i have a hp mini 1100using linux lite deb 3.2.04-4-686-pac grub v 1.99-27+deb
no commands work unless i type in a root password which I do not know.Tried a new os in linux but it will not load even tried win 7 but same effect. The present os is working but i can not add or delete
If more info is needed will try to respond
thank you in advance Camper

John VV · 01-23-2014, 03:15 PM

one can ALWAYS reformat a drive
( you CAN NOT however reformat a drive that is in use )

pop in Gparted live cd
reboot
reformat
install operating system

jamison20000e · 01-23-2014, 03:19 PM

Hi. Do you want to keep the current OS, could try in a terminal:

Code:

sudo passwd

(if no root password is set yet(?)) also try defaults if you did not set it like root or toor or: http://pve.proxmox.com/wiki/Debian_reset_root_password
if you simply want to wipe the drive and install you may need to set the bios to boot to CD or USB? Best wishes and have fun.

:Edits.