how to identify the bootloader programmatically

sanjeevsk · 07-30-2007, 02:24 AM

My problem is that I have to add some setting in bootloader.config.The solution should be generic. For that i need to know the bootloader type programmatically so that i can add the settings.One way is to serach for file /etc/*.conf. Is there any other way to find out the boot loader

pixellany · 07-30-2007, 07:08 AM

GRUB would be identified by the menu.lst file in /boot/grub

I suppose you could also us dd to dump the MBR code and look for the characteristic bit patterns of each known boot loader.

What is your ultimate goal--eg why do you need to automate this?

sanjeevsk · 07-30-2007, 11:18 PM

My purpose is to add vga specification (for frame buffer) in the boot loader.It should be part of my installer program.Now the installer has to identify whether it is LILO or grub or else.....
Then it will update vga data in the bootloader.conf file .
This is my purpose.Now can I add something in my boot loader using command (if yes then I can put those commands in my MakeFile)
What will be the best solution for this.