Repairing boot managers and more in Linux and Windows
If you have several Linux systems – and possibly a Windows system – on your computer, you probably already have experienced the dubious pleasure of booting into a black hole embellished with an error message, like Error 17: Cannot mount selected partition, or a less than friendly prompt, like grub >.
For less experienced users, panic sets in about now. Although a Google search finds plenty of tips, without background knowledge, they do not always prove effective. Additionally, you first need to know whether GRUB [1] or GRUB 2 is installed on the computer: The two differ in terms of command syntax, as well as the location and content of their configuration files.
In other words, if you lack the ability to refloat your system with cryptic commands in the GRUB shell, you are well advised to have a rescue system in your drawer for such occasions. This can be, for example, the Ultimate Boot CD [2], which includes Super Grub Disk [3], or a specialized tool for reviving deceased boot managers, such as Rescatux [4].
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