Question Ubuntu stuck on blinking dash after login.

[lifohir]

Hey. I just got a laptop from a friend that I tried to do a few things on it and I think I already messed up.

The computer turned on normally. I started the software update and it was stuck there for 10 minutes, so I canceled it mid update. Now I cant get the computer to work anymore.

When I turn it on, log in to the ubuntu account, it goes to blank black screen with a blinking dash on the top left corner.

I am not very good with Ubuntu and other linux OSs, so I havent been trying much yet.

 

[ex_bubblehead]

Wipe and reinstall. This should be the FIRST thing you do when acquiring a system from someone else.

 

[lifohir]

Wipe and reinstall. This should be the FIRST thing you do when acquiring a system from someone else.

I would do that, but its not the option. I need to fix it.

 

[ex_bubblehead]

Reinstall is always an option. You don't have the necessary skill set at this point to fix it.

 

[lojikal]

Hey. I just got a laptop from a friend that I tried to do a few things on it and I think I already messed up.

The computer turned on normally. I started the software update and it was stuck there for 10 minutes, so I canceled it mid update. Now I cant get the computer to work anymore.

When I turn it on, log in to the ubuntu account, it goes to blank black screen with a blinking dash on the top left corner.

I am not very good with Ubuntu and other linux OSs, so I havent been trying much yet.

You've likely made a mess of the current by interrupting the update and as such will need to boot into an Older Kernel.

-First restart or boot up your system.
-As soon as the start-up process begins, hold down the Esc button. If your system boots using UEFI then try holding Shift. If you’re unsure then try both methods until you find which one works.
-If done correctly, the GRUB menu will appear. Using the UP/Down Arrow key select Advanced Options for Ubuntu.
-Then press Enter.
-Now you're going to select the kernel you want to use. The older kernel and the one you'll select will be showing a lower the version number.
-Your system should boot up at this point.

Now try updating the system. Reboot after update. You should be fine.

Hope this helps.

 

[lifohir]

You've likely made a mess of the current by interrupting the update and as such will need to boot into an Older Kernel.

-First restart or boot up your system.
-As soon as the start-up process begins, hold down the Esc button. If your system boots using UEFI then try holding Shift. If you’re unsure then try both methods until you find which one works.
-If done correctly, the GRUB menu will appear. Using the UP/Down Arrow key select Advanced Options for Ubuntu.
-Then press Enter.
-Now you're going to select the kernel you want to use. The older kernel and the one you'll select will be showing a lower the version number.
-Your system should boot up at this point.

Now try updating the system. Reboot after update. You should be fine.

Hope this helps.

Thats...pretty insane... it worked
Thank you very much, you have saved me a lot of frustration.

 

[eye4bear]

Linux updates can appear to "hang" at a black screen at times, I have found that it's best to walk away for at least 10 minutes before doing a "hard" restart as many times the update will complete over that 10 or so minute break.

 

[lojikal]

Thats...pretty insane... it worked
Thank you very much, you have saved me a lot of frustration.

Glad I could help mate.

 

[lifohir]

Linux updates can appear to "hang" at a black screen at times, I have found that it's best to walk away for at least 10 minutes before doing a "hard" restart as many times the update will complete over that 10 or so minute break.

Thanks, will remember for the future

Glad I could help mate.

Thanks again