LPIC-1 System Architecture Practice Question
Which TWO of the following are valid methods to change the default runlevel on a SysV init-based system?
⚠ Common exam trap
It's easy for candidates to confuse the 'runlevel' command (which only displays) with a command that can set the default, or they mistakenly apply systemd commands like 'systemctl set-default' to SysV init systems.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Edit /etc/inittab to set the initdefault line.
In SysV init-based systems, the default runlevel is defined in the /etc/inittab file by the 'initdefault' line, which specifies the runlevel the system should enter after boot. Editing this line is the standard method to permanently change the default runlevel. Option B correctly identifies this mechanism.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Use the 'runlevel' command to set the default runlevel.
Why it's wrong here
The runlevel command only displays current and previous runlevels, it does not set defaults.
- ✓
Edit /etc/inittab to set the initdefault line.
Why this is correct
The initdefault line in /etc/inittab defines the default runlevel.
- ✓
Pass the desired runlevel as a kernel parameter at boot time.
Why this is correct
Kernel parameters like '1' or 'single' override the default runlevel for the current boot.
- ✗
Use 'systemctl set-default' to set the default runlevel.
Why it's wrong here
systemctl is used on systemd-based systems, not SysV init.
- ✗
Use the 'telinit' command to change the default runlevel.
Why it's wrong here
telinit changes the current runlevel but does not set the default for future boots.
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