I accidentally bricked my Linux Mint system while messing around with the NVIDIA settings. I'm using Linux Mint with i3wm and an RTX 3090. The issue started when I tried to save the X config file in the NVIDIA settings app and kept getting an error: 'Unable to open X config file '/etc/X11/xorg.conf' for writing.'
To fix this, I decided to remove NVIDIA Prime since I was getting an error when running 'sudo nvidia-settings.' I executed 'sudo apt remove --purge nvidia-prime', but that led to another issue—permission denied errors and the same problem with the X config file. Following suggestions, I ran 'sudo chmod +x /usr/share/screen-resolution-extra/nvidia-polkit', which let me save the xorg.conf file successfully.
However, after logging out, I got a black screen with a blinking cursor at the top left. I tried booting into TTY and followed instructions to run 'sudo rm /etc/X11/xorg.conf', but after rebooting, it's still black. Currently, I'm managing to boot into Linux Mint using a USB, but I'm not sure what to do next. Should I restore a TimeShift backup? I'm feeling pretty lost and frustrated!
3 Answers
If you can access TTY, you might as well use a Live USB to chroot into your installation. This way, you can revert the changes safely. If all else fails, restoring a TimeShift backup is a quick and effective option. But honestly, things like NVIDIA can often be fixed, so don’t lose hope!
Don't panic! Your system isn't completely bricked since you can still access the command line. From TTY, run the following commands to completely purge NVIDIA from your system:
```
sudo apt update
sudo apt purge *nvidia*
sudo apt autoremove
reboot
```
This should help clear out any bad configurations. Good luck!
I recommend backing up any important data and just reinstalling the OS. Sometimes it’s quicker to start fresh than to deal with a mess caused by NVIDIA. But if you're looking to fix it, using a Live USB to repair your installation is a solid choice too.
Related Questions
Can't Load PhpMyadmin On After Server Update
Redirect www to non-www in Apache Conf
How To Check If Your SSL Cert Is SHA 1
Windows TrackPad Gestures