can't log in
 

I've got linux running on a dell server, as shipped.
The computer reboots fine, runs web services and even allows me to ftp from another computer - but when i try to log on at the console i cannot get past the login name.

If I enter a name, it just comes back to the login name again....

I do see a "bad address" message pop up quickly at /dev/tux/backup/login if that helps.


any ideas?

ps. the whole system has been working fine for about 1 year...

Which boot loader are you using ? (GRUB or Lilo)
Also, which Linux distribution ?

You will need to boot the system into Runlevel 1.
From there, you will be able to change the password for root
and fix additional problem.


There are many threads on LQ concerning runlevel 1 and Rescue mode.

I'm in on Runlevel1 - how do i fix the password problems?
I changed root password - but still have this logon problem....

Oh... my mistake. :o
I miss read your post.

If I understand, after you enter a username, you do not even get the chance to enter a password, correct ?

I believe I saw a similar problem somewhere on LQ,
I will try to find the thread.

Yes, that is correct.... thanks for your help....
I've looked at the passwd file and it seems ok -
it's just the multi-user login (level 3) that won't skip to the password b/c it says there is a "bad address" when it tries to run /dev/tux/backup/login

thanks again....

I knew I saw something about /dev/tux

Although, you may not like it. :(
Take a look:
http://www.linuxquestions.org/questi...threadid=56848

thanks....
i'll start reformatting now....



*** a most horrible cancer is wished upon all hackers..... ***