Inherited computer with RedHat 5.2 no-login

VividNewbie · 12-04-2003, 08:13 AM

Hello,
I've just inherited an old Compaq Contura 400c with redhat linux 5.2 installed.
I don't have access to any of the login ID or passwords.
Can I use this rig or should I start planning some sort of reinstall?

I think I might be able to struggle through booting from a floppy if I can learn how to make a boot floppy using my MacIntosh PowerPC.

Any comments or guidance would be gratefully accepted,

fsbooks · 12-04-2003, 08:30 AM

Assuming it is booting with lilo, you can probably get root access by typing "linux single" at the lilo prompt. Substitute of course, the kernal name found with the tab key at the lilo prompt for linux. It is generally a matter of getting into a system after losing a root password (you can search for that here, and you will get more complete answers).

Is it worth doing this? Probably not. Unless there is something you really want on the current install which appears very unlikely, it would be simpler to pick a distro and install from scratch. Or you just want to see what a linux system is about (though this may be similar to using a windows 3.1 system to see what windows XP is about -- not quite so bad though) And mind you, this from a man whose current 9.0 system has followed an upgrade path from rh 5.2.

VividNewbie · 12-04-2003, 08:51 AM

I do see indications that LILO is used.
My primary interest is as you describe, to see what Linux is about, sample some gnu programs... Broaden my horizons.
My first opportunity to respond to a prompt is at a user login.
I've rambled through as many obvious guesses as I'm able (knowing who used this computer last). Nothing.

BrianNJ · 12-04-2003, 09:32 AM

offhand, i'd say the better way to learn is to install yourself and go from there...

frieza · 12-04-2003, 09:36 AM

same here... or find the person you got it from and ask him/her the login

michaelk · 12-04-2003, 09:49 AM

To reset your root password, you will need to boot linux in single-user mode.
To do this, read this document.
http://www.redhat.com/docs/manuals/...ing-single.html

Once the system is booted, use the passwd command by typing:

/usr/bin/passwd

RH 5.2 is a very old verison. I think it is a 2.0 kernel. IMO a reinstall would be the way to go.