CompTIA Server+ (SK0-005) — Question 119

A technician is attempting to log in to a Linux server as root but cannot remember the administrator password. Which of the following is the LEAST destructive method of resetting the administrator password?

Answer options

• A. Boot using a Linux live CD and mount the hard disk to /mnt. Change to the /mnt/etc directory. Edit the passwd file found in that directory.
• B. Reinstall the OS in overlay mode. Reset the root password from the install GUI screen.
• C. Adjust the GRUB boot parameters to boot into single-user mode. Run passwd from the command prompt.
• D. Boot using a Linux live CD and mount the hard disk to /mnt. SCP the /etc directory from a known accessible server to /mnt/etc.

Correct answer: C

Explanation

Option C is the least destructive because it allows the technician to reset the password without altering any files or reinstalling the OS. Options A and D involve modifying system files directly, which can lead to further complications, while option B would completely reinstall the operating system, which is more disruptive than necessary.