root login - passwd expired - console login only

[Dan DeHaan]

The password for the root login has expired and needs to be changed. The server is set up for console login only (/etc/securetty). However, the console is unresponsive - blank screen, no prompt or cursor. I can't 'su' from another terminal because of the expired password. I can't diagnose the console because I can't 'su'. Is there a way around this or will I have to power-cycle the server? It's a L2000 running HP-UX 11.00.

[OldSchool]

uhh...is the the "real" console (ie terminal) or web console which "is unresponsive"

[Dan DeHaan]

Yes, it is the real console (plugged in directly to the back of the server). I've tested the terminal and cable and they're fine.

[Dan DeHaan]

OK, I got around it. Luckily this server needs to have rexec enabled. I was able to remotely remove the /etc/securetty file and login as root from another terminal.

[Tim Nelson]

That is the good one for today.

"Luckily I have a security hole I can get through"

Not picking( you are lucky it was there ) I just got a chuckle out of it.

For a serious note: Locked consoles can sometimes be reset while holding the "d" key while powering off/on the console ( if it is an HP console ).

Another option is to reset the MP. ( this depends on the server model). MP resets do not interupt the OS.