Can I Install Linux Mint Without Losing My Personal Files from Windows?

If your files are on a different partition from your Windows installation, you're in good shape! You can use a Live USB to transfer your files over safely. Otherwise, I'd recommend backing everything up to an external HDD before proceeding with the installation.

If possible, getting a separate physical drive for Linux is a great idea. You can install Linux on the new drive and keep your Windows drive plugged out during the setup. Once installed, just plug the Windows drive back in, and you'll be able to access all your files either by mounting it or copying them over.

Absolutely, it's crucial to back up your files before moving to Linux, just in case something goes wrong during the installation. That said, you can install Linux Mint alongside Windows and choose the option that keeps your existing files safe. Just remember, a single backup isn't really a backup—it's better to have multiple copies on different drives!

Consider creating a separate partition for Linux or even dual-booting. But the simplest option is really just to back up your important files to an external hard drive. They're affordable nowadays, and this way, you'll have a secure copy no matter what happens.