Further information: Using a completely random xorg.conf file, containing only garbage, does not produce the problem - gdm continues trying to start the X server, but it doesn't interrupt the text login prompt.
The problem only arises if X successfully loads its config and attempts to take over the screen for display (you see the screen go black while the monitor switches modes). When this happens, you get stuck with the problem that the tty terminal never has the focus for long enough to enter your login details. -- gdm does not detect crashing X server https://bugs.launchpad.net/bugs/487045 You received this bug notification because you are a member of Ubuntu Bugs, which is subscribed to Ubuntu. -- ubuntu-bugs mailing list ubuntu-bugs@lists.ubuntu.com https://lists.ubuntu.com/mailman/listinfo/ubuntu-bugs