Ubuntu
shadow package

recovery of root password, installed in VM

Asked by sridhar k

Hi,
I installed Ubuntu on Oracle VM virtual box a few months ago. I forgot my root password for Ubuntu and I am unable to login now.
Can you let me know how do I recover my root password.

While the VM was loading, I tried pressing F12/Shift/Esc keys, but I couldn't go to shell prompt from where I could reset it.

Could you let me know the sequence of steps.

Thanks,
Sridhar

Question information

Language:
English Edit question
Status:
Answered
For:
Ubuntu shadow Edit question
Assignee:
No assignee Edit question
Last query:
Last reply:
Revision history for this message
actionparsnip (andrew-woodhead666) said : 		#1

There is no root password for Ubuntu, nor does the community support having one set. It isn't needed either.

Revision history for this message
delance (olivier-delance) said : 		#2

http://www.psychocats.net/ubuntu/resetpassword
Please use Google before asking!

Revision history for this message
sridhar k (sridhargmat) said : 		#3

Thanks.
I had tried that, as I have already mentioned it in my question above.

As long as I can get to shell prompt, I can reset the password. But, when I power on the VM on which I had installed Ubuntu, I am unable to see similar screens while it is getting loaded. I tried pressing Shift key / Esc Key / F12, but none of them led me the options as mentioned in the link you share.

I couldn't get an answer through Google for this particular question. Hope you could lead me to it.

Revision history for this message
delance (olivier-delance) said : 		#4

What do you see on VM screen when you power on this one ?

Revision history for this message
xoristzatziki (simsonbike-bugs) said : 		#5

I do not want to give any specific address so google for:
linux reset password using chroot
linux reset password using live CD

Use a Live CD (image or real CD inserted in CD drive) and boot VM for ubuntu (the one that you already created, not a new one) from the Live CD

Revision history for this message
actionparsnip (andrew-woodhead666) said : 		#6

Hold shift at boot and you can get a root recovery console. You can reset your password there

Can you help with this problem?

Provide an answer of your own, or ask sridhar k for more information if necessary.

To post a message you must log in.