Botched upgrade kills Ubuntu Linux GUI

The developers of Ubuntu Linux have issued an update which made unintentionally dramatic changes to the platform's graphical user interface.

The changes meant that many users have been unable to use their machines at all, as the botched 'upgrade' left them with access only to the command line interface.

While the Linux hardcore may have been unfazed, and long-time PC users may have had a trip down DOS-based memory lane, users accustomed to the point and click interface might have been stumped.

"There was a problem with a recent Ubuntu update. An update was released for Dapper on 21 August which has been found to cause problems on certain systems," the company admitted.

A fix is already available for users who are no longer able to log-in to Ubuntu systems after the bad update.

"If your system is fully up to date and you have no obvious graphical system failures, you are highly unlikely to be affected," the company said.

"However, delays to the system of update distribution mean that you should make sure you have fully updated before rebooting your computer."