Linux-based hard disk is divided into two major types of partitions: data partition and swap partition. Data partitions are the basic partitions that contain system data, including that for starting and running the system in root partition. On the other hand, swap partition is responsible for holding hard disk extra memory and expanded system’s physical memory. In most of the Linux systems, fdisk is used to initially set the partition type. These partitions can be ext3 journaled, ext2, Reiser FS etc. But, sometimes you may observe certain issues with these partitions. Thus,Linux Recovery experts suggest maintaining an updated backup of important data that is stored on hard disk.
Consider a scenario, you try to mount a Linux partition to install a Linux distribution and encounter a similar error message:
“/dev/hdg currently has loop partition layout.”
Where, name of partition, i.e. /dev/hdg, can vary. It can be /dev/had, /dev/sda tc.
Cause
Possible reasons of above error message are listed below:
If you are using a third-party boot loader on primary hard disk’s MBR, Disk Druid may fail to recognize your partitions.
Partition layout is damaged
Disk Druid is the tool to manage partitions and associate mount points. It is a graphical tool that displays existing disks and partitions in a defined format.
Solution
You can follow these steps to recover from the situation:
If boot loader has been the issue, uninstall the current boot loader and install GRUB on MBR of primary hard disk.
If partition table is damaged, backup all exiting and information files and folders and repartition the drive. Restore lost data using backup. If backup has not been taken, is damaged or incomplete, you can use commercial tools of Linux Recovery.
Linux Data Recovery software are advanced recovery applications that can scan drive affected from logical data loss. These applications use som algorithms that completely analyze existing disk structure. After locating missing files and folders, they compare their location information with that of existing ones. All the procedures are safe. Also, the interface provided is interactive and offer easy Linux Recovery options.
Stellar PhoenixLinux Data Recoveryis a complete and advanced tool to recover lost data from Ext2, Ext3 and Reiser FS formatted drives. It offers various advanced recovery options, like RAW File Recovery, Create Image, File Filter, Append Header etc. The software is compatible with almost all Linux distributions including Red Hat, SUSE, Debian, Turbo Linux etc.