Newbie: forgotten root password for Arch and tried to use bash as init method but /bin/bash_ does not exist

2 min read 24-10-2024

the ifix

Newbie: forgotten root password for Arch and tried to use bash as init method but /bin/bash_ does not exist

If you're new to Arch Linux and find yourself in a frustrating situation where you've forgotten your root password, you may try to reset it using various methods. One common method is to use the bash shell as an initialization option. However, you may encounter an error indicating that /bin/bash_ does not exist. In this article, we will clarify this issue, provide insights into resolving it, and ensure that you can regain access to your system.

Understanding the Problem

Original Problem Scenario

The original problem posed is:
"Newbie: forgotten root password for Arch and tried to use bash as init method but /bin/bash_ does not exist."

Corrected and Clearer Version

A clearer version would be:
"As a new user, I forgot my root password on Arch Linux and attempted to use bash as the init method, but I encountered an error stating that /bin/bash does not exist."

This scenario typically occurs when a user is trying to reset their root password but mistakenly references a non-existent file path.

Fixing the Issue

To resolve the problem of the forgotten root password in Arch Linux, follow these steps:

Boot into a Live Environment: Use an Arch Linux live USB or installation medium to boot your system.
Identify Your Root Partition: After booting into the live environment, open a terminal and run the following command to find your root partition:
```
lsblk
```
Look for the partition where your Arch Linux system is installed (commonly something like /dev/sda1).
Mount the Root Partition: Replace /dev/sdaX with your identified partition number.
```
mount /dev/sdaX /mnt
```
Change Root: Use the chroot command to switch into your system's root environment:
```
arch-chroot /mnt
```
Reset the Root Password: Now, you can reset the root password using:
```
passwd
```
Enter your new password when prompted.
Exit and Reboot: Once the password has been reset, exit the chroot environment and unmount the partition:
```
exit
umount /mnt
```
Finally, reboot your system:
```
reboot
```

Why the Error Occurred

The error regarding /bin/bash_ does not exist typically stems from a typo or misunderstanding of the file path. When entering the init method, it should be simply /bin/bash rather than /bin/bash_. Errors like these can be quite common for new users who might not be fully familiar with the Linux command line.

Additional Tips for New Arch Users

Familiarize Yourself with the Command Line: Understanding basic commands will help you navigate your system more efficiently.
Regularly Back Up Important Data: It's advisable to maintain backups, particularly of critical files, in case you run into system access issues.
Use a Password Manager: Consider using a password manager to securely store your passwords to avoid losing them in the future.
Document Your Setup: Keep notes of any configurations you perform on your system to assist with troubleshooting down the line.

Conclusion

Forgetting a root password can be a daunting experience, especially for newcomers to Arch Linux. However, with a clear approach and understanding of the system, you can regain access without much hassle. Remember to check your commands carefully to avoid typos that can lead to confusion.

Useful Resources

This guide should help demystify the process of resetting a forgotten root password in Arch Linux. By following the outlined steps and tips, you will be back in control of your system in no time!