Hacking root password

This is the easiest way to hack root password. This works on most Linux distro.
Boot from a linux 'live cd', I prefer Knoppix STD and edit '/etc/passwd' directly.

boot from a knoppix cdrom:

log into prompt

mkdir /tmp
mount /dev/md2 /tmp => (or appropriate root partition)
vi /tmp/etc/shadow

remove all encrypted md5 text (everything between the first and second colons)
use  + x to delete text)

reboot the system

log in as root with no passwd

change the root passwd with 'passwd