I'm currently using Zorin OS, but I'd like to try a distribution that isn't based on Ubuntu and uses KDE Plasma. Is there a straightforward way to change distributions while keeping my personal files and settings safe?
3 Answers
The safest approach is to make a full backup first. Most personal files are stored in your home folder, so copy that to an external drive. For extra protection, create a complete image of your current system so you can restore it if something goes wrong.
Before installing anything, try the distributions in a live environment or use a multiboot USB tool to get a feel for the desktop and hardware support. Once you decide to install, make sure your backups are complete and tested.
A common setup is to put the root filesystem and /home on separate partitions. Then you can reinstall or replace the operating system while keeping your personal data in /home. Be very careful during installation so you format only the intended system partition. A backup tool such as Timeshift can provide another layer of protection.
That’s a smart approach, although my current installation isn’t partitioned that way. I’ll probably set it up like that during my next installation.
That’s probably what I’ll end up doing. Thanks for the help!