The LILO command is used to install the Linux Loader (LILO) boot manager on a Linux system. LILO is a boot loader that loads the Linux kernel into memory and allows the user to choose which operating system or kernel to boot at startup.
Overview
The LILO command is typically used after compiling a new kernel or updating the current kernel on a Linux system. The installation process involves configuring the LILO boot loader to recognize the new kernel and update the boot menu accordingly.
The syntax for the LILO command is as follows:
lilo [options]
Here are some examples of how to use the LILO command:
- To install LILO on the MBR (Master Boot Record) of the first hard disk:
lilo
- To install LILO on a specific partition:
lilo -b /dev/sda2
- To install LILO with verbose output:
lilo -v
- To install LILO with a specific configuration file:
lilo -C /etc/lilo.conf
Options
Here is a table of available options for the LILO command:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| -v | Verbose output |
| -b | Install LILO on a specific partition or disk |
| -C | Use a specific configuration file |
| -u | Uninstall LILO |
| -t | Test configuration file for errors |
| -q | Quiet mode |
| -R | Use a specific root directory |
| -M | Use a specific map file |
Troubleshooting tips
Here are some troubleshooting tips for common issues with the LILO command:
- If you receive an error message stating that the MBR is not found, make sure that the hard disk is properly connected and recognized by the system.
- If you receive an error message stating that LILO cannot find the kernel image, make sure that the kernel image is located in the correct directory and is named correctly.
- If you receive an error message stating that the LILO configuration file contains errors, use the “-t” option to test the configuration file for errors.
Notes
- LILO is an older boot loader that has been largely replaced by GRUB (Grand Unified Bootloader) on modern Linux systems.
- LILO is not compatible with UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) systems and should not be used on such systems.