root passwd

baburaj · 04-16-2002, 05:00 AM

hi,,

if i forgot my root passwd, by chance, is the only option left is a complete formatting of my disk and reinstall linux ?

Mara · 04-16-2002, 05:17 AM

No, it isn't. Use a boot disk, edit /etc/shadow and delete everything beteen root: and :
It''s a good idea to make a backup copy of this file before editing.

reed · 04-16-2002, 05:35 AM

if yo use LILO or grub you can boot to single user mode then change your password as well.

L33t_H4x0R · 04-16-2002, 06:36 AM

.... which (in LILO) you do by pushing TAB to see the list of bootable kernels - typing in the name of the one at the top (The default one you usually use normally) followed by a space, and then the word 'single' (no quotes, make sure it's lowercase)....

Good luck!

Bry

Eternal · 04-16-2002, 06:41 AM

heh

lilo: image-name init=/bin/sh -o rw

should do the trick. it will start to boot and stop on bin/sh after mounting the medias in Read-Write. IF you boot into a Single you get 2 choises :

Ctrl+D for normal Boot up or
Enter Root password for maintenance

(im a flamebait

please bow infront of my knowledge)

L33t_H4x0R · 04-16-2002, 06:50 AM

Damn!

You're completely correct of course - it does indeed ask for root password when you try and boot into single user mode!

The /bin/sh trick is a much better idea!

Top man!

Bry

Eternal · 04-16-2002, 07:02 AM

As reward, i accept 19yrs old sisters. Please e-mail her in the closest delayes to oliver@nerdzland.com

Sincerly, Oliver

reed · 04-16-2002, 12:59 PM

in grub

p #if you assigned a password (and didn't forget it)
enter password: <password>

e #to edit menu
more choices
e #to edit menu
#add space and single to the default kernel image line
#something like
/boot/vmlinuz_your_kern single
enter #...
b #boots
#voila single user mode with no root pass

get grubby
RIP LIL_ <disclaimer
^^^^^^^^personal opinion