How can I resize my Linux system partition if it cannot be unmounted?
Asked by
MellowPine47
I'm running Linux Mint Cinnamon and need to expand the partition that currently contains my operating system. Since the system is actively using it, I'm not sure how to unmount it safely before resizing it with KDE Partition Manager. What is the correct procedure?
Answers
Before changing partition sizes, make a backup of anything important. Resizing is usually safe, but an interruption or unexpected error can corrupt the filesystem or make data inaccessible.
Reply to this answer
A live USB containing GParted or another partition manager is usually the simplest approach. Once the computer has booted from the USB, the installed system partition should not be in use, allowing you to resize it.
Reply to this answer
You cannot unmount the root or system partition while you are booted from it. Boot the computer from a different environment—such as a live Linux USB or a partition-management ISO—and resize the partition from there. If it’s a separate, non-system partition, you can normally unmount it with the `umount` command first.
MellowPine47: That makes sense—thanks! I’ll use a live USB instead of trying to unmount the active system partition.
Reply to this answer
Add your answer
Answers are reviewed before publication.
MellowPine47: Good point—I’ll back up my important files before starting.