root password gone + install fedora core 3
 

I hope you can help me.
I have had my linux machine lying there with Mandrake 9.2.
And now i want to do something with it.
I haven't used it since i lost my root password :)
and now i would like to install fedora core 3.

I would be damn happy if someone could help me out,
or else i don't have anything to do at home :(

And also, if u want to guide me which is user friendly for
a noob like me.. Mandrake 9.2 or Fedora Core 3?

I thank allready.

Hey dude,
firstly, do you want to retain your Mandrake distribution or no ?
If not, then just pop in a FC3 DVD/CD and the installation process will guide you. When asked, delete the Mandrke partition and install a fresh FC3.

Also, are you having any other OS on you box ? If so, just be careful while doing the partitioning... when asked by FC3, make sure you DON'T let it "automatically partition" your HDD.

If all you want is FC3 on you box, choose the "Automatic partition" option. In this case, FC3 will delete and format your entire hard drive and install only FC3 on it.

As far as resetting your root password is considered, if you are using grub :
--> when the grub screen comes on boot, go to the line which has the following text :
"kernel boot ..... blah blah .. /LABEL = / "
--> press "e"
--> press "e" again
--> append 1 at the end of the line
--> enter
--> press "b"
--> this will log you on in single-user mode in Linux
--> just type :
$ passwd <enter>
and give a new passwd.

Thats it, now reboot and you can log in as root.

However, if you have set Grub password as well..... well...... then I think its best to install a new OS.

thanks m8
I hope i'll manage from here.
I'll inform if any problems are on my way.

hmm...so far FC3 cd won't start up.
I setup the boot from CD, but it won't start.
Then...
If i'll try that other way...
i need to know where do i need to press "e"?
I first have to choose from linux, failsafe or floppy...
help :D

When you boot your PC, you get a GRUB screen , right ?

On that screen, select the Mandrake 9.2 entry.
Then press "e" and try to continue

No i don't get any GRUB screens.
Well...i solved that i have burned these FC3 cd's all wrong.
So maybe i'll fix em, and try to install it.
All 4 cd's again....huoh...
but thanks alot