How do I wipe out my own server?

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How do I wipe out my own server?

gpilling

8:26 pm on Oct 1, 2006 (gmt 0)

This might sound strange, but I need to get my server operational, and I don't have the password. I had it setup by a local computer consultant, and he has not been back since March 7th. He said he would be back the next day....

It is a Linux server, running Ubuntu Breezy Badger. There is nothing on the server, since we have never been able to use it. I would like to use it, so now I need to reformat it or something. I have not been able to get a hold of the guy since March, so I am hoping that someone can help me. My personal skill level with Linux is at the kindergarten level, but I can follow instructions.

I am perfectly willing to reformat it and start over, or some other destructive method.

DrDoc

8:29 pm on Oct 1, 2006 (gmt 0)

Redhat?
Reboot it ... type "linux single".
After bootup, remove the password portion from the root line in /etc/passwd.
Reboot
Log in as root (no password)
Type "passwd root".

<added>
oh, didn't read the OP properly
</added>

[edited by: DrDoc at 8:38 pm (utc) on Oct. 1, 2006]

encyclo

8:33 pm on Oct 1, 2006 (gmt 0)

For Ubuntu, if there is really nothing on the server then just download an Ubuntu Live-CD, boot from it and select the install option, and choose to wipe the existing data. Installing Ubuntu is very easy (much easier than installing Windows), just agree to all the defaults and let the installer do all the work. :)

gpilling

10:26 pm on Oct 1, 2006 (gmt 0)

Thanks for the help. He left a copy of Ubuntu there, so I guess the solution to my problem has been there all along.