How To Reinstall Linux Mint Without Losing Your Data & Settings
It’s possible and not that difficult
Do you want to reinstall or upgrade your Linux Mint Distribution but don’t want to lose all your settings and data in the process? It is possible and not that difficult.
Start by backing up your existing operating system in case you need to restore it if something goes wrong.
Create a Bootable Disk Or Drive Of The New Mint OS
Before installing a fresh Cinnamon Mint, it is best to create a bootable copy. The most recent release as of now is 19.2, codename “Tina”.
Burn a DVD (32-bit or 64-bit depending on which your hardware uses) or make a bootable USB thumb drive. If you are not sure which edition to select, the most popular is “Cinnamon 64-bit edition”. You can get the download link for Cinnamon Mint on theofficial page.
Refer to theLinux Mint Installation Guideto help you create your bootable media, download the right ISO image, and install Linux Mint on your computer. The guide is available in multiple languages and different formats such as PDF, ePub, and HTML.
Following the steps below will enable you to keep all your settings and save you a lot of time.
Backup Your Existing Software Applications
All your programs are now backed up on your system. Your next step is to open your home directory with Nemo file manager.
cp /etc/fstab /home/yourname
Install Linux Mint
Now you are ready toreinstall Mint. When you boot your system using an external drive (DVD or USB stick), it will start a live session of Linux Mint.
When you run Linux Mint after it is permanently installed on your computer, it is not a live version. The live version is similar to a normal session except in the following ways:
Double click onInstall Linux Mintand select your language.
The next step will ask you to connect to your wireless network. This is an optional step. We recommend not connecting to the Internet. If you do, the installer will download all updates through your Internet connection.
If you have a slow connection or lose it, it will be difficult to know how far your installation got before the connection dropped. Complete your installation first and get your updates later.
SelectI don’t want to connect to a wi-fi network right now.
The next steps will let you know if you are prepared to install Linux Mint. You need to only be concerned about adequate disk space. Make sure your battery is charged if you are not using a power source.
As already stated, you don’t need to be connected to the Internet. Clickcontinue.
This next step where you choose an installation type is very important. You will have four choices. You want to selectSomething Else.
This option lets you manage the partitions. Choosing NOT to format your home partition is what keeps your data intact.
When you chooseSomething else, you will see partitions to choose from.
Select your Root partition and then choosechange. Looking at the screenshot below:
Reinstall Your Programs
SelectBackup Toolfrom Administrator in your Menu. ChooseRestore software selectionand navigate to your home directory.
Choose the software backup file you created earlier and then clickApplyorForward.
Now all your programs have been restored and all your settings have been preserved. Congratulations, you now have the latest version of Linux Mint.
David has a background in small business and lives in Australia. He is a WordPress and Ubuntu Developer who enjoys design, CSS and tech tool integration.Read David’s Full Bio
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