Sir,
we have logged with linux as root over a telnet session.But, by mistake we changed the passwd file with the intention of adding users to passwd file.But in the process the default shell in the passwd file got changed into /bin/bash:xyz in the passwd file for the root user.when the next time we logged it is not allowing to login either from main machine or from the telnet for the root user.we are unable to change the file as we could not login through the System administrator proompt. There is a passwd.bak also.what is the remedy.
Please help.
Thanks and Regards,
vivek

here u r.ur options r:
1.if u have lilo as boot loader .then at the menu press ctr-x.then from the boot command line enter" linux single" or enter
linux init=/bin/sh
2.if u have grub as boot loader without boot passwd.then press "e" edit at he boot menu.select
kernel /vmlinuz-xxxx and press "e"
u get a cursor at the end of the line add "single" press enter
and press "b" to boot that image.u will get a #root prompt
3.u have enabled boot passwd for grub or for lilo than use ur installation
cd.just type linux rescue.u will get the prompt to workon.
type chroot/mnt/sysimage
type passwd
put ur new passwd
type exit
and don't forget to mail me if this works.
http://www.geocities.com/anandstupid
type exit agian. to boot