Linux stole my system files.

[cack01]

OK I did a dual boot of 2k and Linux. I installed Linux first, so I could use its boot loader. Well 6 months later, I can't getinto Linux (some Kernel panic) and I want to format the drive and get rid of the bootloader. The only problem is I think Linux copied all my system files such as autoexec.bat, command.com, and all the other things I might need. I can't copy them over from the linux partition, since its a different file system.

So...do you guys know where I can find an article to rebuild the stuff I need. I know its pretty simple and easy since the autoexec only needs a few lines, but still its my first time screwing with the boot process.
thx

[Smizack]

That dosen't make total scense to me. Do you mean you don't get the bootloader anymore?
If linux is hosed, just reinstall it.

[cack01]

Everything is fine, except linux won't load, so I can't access the file system inorder to get the files I need. I have Linux on a nother comp right now, so I just want it off completly.

[DreamingWolf]

Is there any chance that you have a Win boot disk that will get you to a command prompt? Then you can search for your system files on your Windows partition.

To the best of my knowledge, the system files are kept in the Master Boot Record and if Windows booted at one time, then the system files can't be on the Linux partition. The difference in file systems would keep them from executing properly.:cool:

[cack01]

I tried booting to dos, and I could not find them under the c:. Does win2k's recovery console repair autoexec files or remake them.

[DreamingWolf]

Next question would be is your boot disk from 2K or is it the 98SE variety. I ask because the 98 SE variety doesn't recognize NTFS partitions, unless you add a program such as readntfs.exe to your bootdisk.

Also, were your OS on different partitions on the same disk, or separate disks. If they are on separate disks then you could use fdisk to make your windows disk active and try the load sequence in your bios setup to run off the second disk. (sometimes referred to as hdd-1 of boot other device)

I'm still hunting for a good article that sets everything out in one place. As soon as I find one I'll post the link:cool:

[cack01]

thanks, I'll try those later tonight, I be at work late today. I'll let you know.

[azehof]

As far as I know Windows2000 doesn't need the autoexec.bat file, also its very unlikely that Linux has changed or moved any of your system files. It usaully only alters the MBR of your hard disk to install a bootloader, if you allow it to, unless your using an uncommen version of Linux though. Usually when I lose access to Linux I use the fdisk command "fdisk /mbr". Then because PQMagic sometimes can't access the partition table, I use the Linux installation partition manager that usually pops up in most Linux installations, and delete the Linux partitions from there, and without going any further through setup, hit the restart button and all should be gone. But any data on those Linux partitons will be gone, unless you want to install over the current Linux file system in a new installation.

I'm pretty much a noob to linux, so this is just my 2p.

[cack01]

Well I guess if you think I don't need the autoexec.bat, then I guess it solves most my problems. I'll try that tonight after I back up my files.