File recovery from a failed operating system
 

The configuration default in Gnome power manager has changed and now I can't access anything but, the log in menu. I made a post about it but, no reply. Now I ask anyone if there is a way I can retrieve my files or fix the power manager config files.
I tried to reinstal ubunto but, it only alow me to installed on another partition and booth on either one. I don't think that will work.
I tried to use ubunto on a stick but, it does not accept me signing in with the same password (too short). I would apreciate any suggestions to get my files back. Compiuter is a laptop HP MINI 210-1054TU software ubunto 10.4 latest.
Thank you.
Gianfranco

Just boot from a live-medium (CD or USB) and copy you files to external storage or network. In future I would recommend to back up your files before an error occurs.
You also may be able to login to a virtual console (just press Strg+Alt+F1 at login screen) and fix your errors.

Thanks for your reply.
I did all that but, I can't move the files as I have no permission. I was trying to do a backup when it went bad. All is on the drive I just can't sign in.
I don't get a log in screen. it goes directly to users menu and than will not open when I sign in but, comes back with window warning about GNOME power manager configuration not installed correctly.

I don't know Ubuntu very well, because I am a Debian user, but I assume that the users menu you mean actually is the login screen.
If you boot from the medium you used to install Ubuntu, you should come to the point where it asks if you want to install it or to just try it. Go for the "Try it"-option here and you should come to a desktop without need to log in. From here you should be able to navigate to your harddisk and save your files to an external medium.

(from the ubuntu community documentation)

reinstalling Linux in a external drive id allow me to introduce a password and access the data on the disk.
Thanks