Ubuntu Linux Help

Just got another message, this time from Louis. A in Florida. He asks:

“…I have kubuntu installed in my laptop computer, and everything was fine until yesterday, 4/6/08, when I was installing some additional programs from the settings menu. One of the updates that I installed created another user and also gave it admin control!!! It has now locked me out of signing into MY computer!!! Is there anyway that I can break into signing onto the system…“

There are a couple approaches you can take.

1) Try to use the installation CD to gain root access.

If you don’t have the CD, Kubuntu CD downloads are here: Kubuntu Download CD and DVD Disk Images. Boot off the CD and use the command:

boot: rescue

Just follow the instructions after that (they will be on your monitor screen).

2) Try getting access without logging in. (I’ve not tried this, it’s still in my notes on a ‘to do’ list).

A lot of people have passwords set for users but not the boot (Grub) itself. Therefore, another method that might work is to boot the PC and if you don’t see the Grub menu, just press the ESC key. Use the arrow keys to select the kernel ‘(recovery mode)’ you want to boot and press enter. This should boot you in.

I should also add that it’s a simple matter to change your password on the command line. For example, if your username is louis, then change your password using this command:

passwd louis

Then it will ask you to enter a new password.

Hopefully this will help you and some other users in similar circumstances.