Linux boot process proceeds in steps. At first, BIOS selects the boot device and loads the boot sector. The boot manager then loads the kernel image in RAM to execute and run the setup code. Kernel initializes all the installed devices, switches the CPU from Real Mode to Protected Mode, loads the compressed kernel and performs further boot process steps. But in case if system cannot find this kernel image, it will fail to boot.

In such situations, your system either hangs or displays error messages and eventually, you cannot access your data. Data backup, if present, valid and updated, can be used to restore missing information. In case backup fails, you should use Linux Recovery Software to restore.

You might encounter the similar error message when trying to boot a Linux-based system:

“Could Not Find Kernel image: Linux”

Cause

You receive this Kernel image error due to any of the possible reasons:

• Missing configuration file. This file tells the system about the location of kernel image and initrd files

• Name of kernel image file has been changed

• Absent required parameters, for example /boot/grub/menu.lst is missing

• Boot sector is corrupted or damaged

Solution

You can try following steps to overcome such issues:

• Enter the boot line prompt and try using such commands:

root (hd0,1)

kernel /vmlinuz devfs=mount root=/dev/hda2

initrd /initrd.img

boot

Or

root (hd0,1)

chainloader +1

boot

• If the above measure fails and you can get into GRUB command mode, you can use tab key and auto completion feature to find the missing kernel and initrd files. If no boot menu displays, enter into rescue mode.

• Reformat the drive as the last solution. To restore lost data in this way, use your recent data backup or alternatively, commercial Data Recovery Linux tools (if backup is invalid or absent).

Linux Recovery applications are specially designed tools that scan Linux-based disks for locating and recovering lost information. Such applications provide rich interface to work with and safe read-only design. In addition, you get advanced options that help enhancing recovery results.

Stellar Phoenix Linux Data Recovery is a complete Data Recovery Linux tool. The application supports recovery from Ext2, Ext3, ReiserFS partitions. With powerful features like RAW File Recovery, File Filter, Disk Imaging, and similar such, this Linux Recovery software proves to be an efficient tool to recover. It is compatible with most of the Linux distributions, like Red Hat, SlackWare, Turbo Linux, SUSE etc.

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