Lost root password?

Lost root password?

If you can't log in as root because the password is lost or shadow file is corrupt, try to get in using the following method.

1. Get a bootable CD (Any Solaris 6 or 7) will do.
2. Boot from the CD.
3. Bring up a console in the installation mode.
4. Mount / file system from the hard drive.
5. Edit /etc/passwd or /etc/shadow to remove the encrypted password.
6. Restart machine and boot from hard drive.
7. Now login as root with a blank passwd.


    Requires Free Membership to View

    SearchSecurity.com members gain immediate and unlimited access to breaking industry news, virus alerts, new hacker threats, highly focused security newsletters, and more -- all at no cost. Join me on SearchSecurity.com today!

    Michael S. Mimoso, Editorial Director

    By submitting your registration information to SearchSecurity.com you agree to receive email communications from TechTarget and TechTarget partners. We encourage you to read our Privacy Policy which contains important disclosures about how we collect and use your registration and other information. If you reside outside of the United States, by submitting this registration information you consent to having your personal data transferred to and processed in the United States. Your use of SearchSecurity.com is governed by our Terms of Use. You may contact us at webmaster@TechTarget.com.

This was first published in November 2002

Disclaimer: Our Tips Exchange is a forum for you to share technical advice and expertise with your peers and to learn from other enterprise IT professionals. TechTarget provides the infrastructure to facilitate this sharing of information. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or validity of the material submitted. You agree that your use of the Ask The Expert services and your reliance on any questions, answers, information or other materials received through this Web site is at your own risk.