access to local file system

[warwick]

I inherited a Redhat linux box but I have no passwords for it. I could nuke it and be done with it but I would like to get a couple reports off the machine. I have knoppix running on it and I can see the directory the files are in but I don't know how to gain access to the locked directory. Ideas?

[Gort]

Easiest way is to boot up from the machine (don't use Knoppix) and when you get to the Lilo prompt (press Esc if you have a graphical display), type "linux single" or "linux 1" at the prompt and then press enter - this takes you to Single User Mode, which gives you root access. Then at the prompt, type "passwd root" (no quotes), and it'll ask you to type in a password, which will be your new one, and then it'll ask again to make sure you did it right. Bingo!