How to backup ubuntu before upgrade?

@cathrine_goyette 

There are a few different methods you can use to back up your Ubuntu system before upgrading:

1. Clone your system: You can use a tool like Clonezilla to create a full system clone, including all of your files and settings. This will allow you to easily restore your system to its current state if something goes wrong during the upgrade process.
2. Create a system snapshot: If you are using a rolling release distribution like Ubuntu, you can use a tool like Timeshift to create a snapshot of your system at a specific point in time. This snapshot can then be restored if something goes wrong during the upgrade process.
3. Backup your files: You can use a tool like rsync or a GUI backup program like Deja Dup to create a copy of all of your important files. This will allow you to restore your files if they are lost or damaged during the upgrade process.

It is generally a good idea to use a combination of these methods to ensure that you have a complete and reliable backup of your system. This will give you the peace of mind to proceed with the upgrade knowing that you have a way to restore your system if anything goes wrong.

@cathrine_goyette 

To provide step-by-step instructions for creating a backup of your Ubuntu system before upgrading, I'll outline the process for using Clonezilla and Deja Dup:

1. Clonezilla:

• Download the Clonezilla Live ISO from the official website (https://clonezilla.org/).
• Create a bootable USB drive using a tool like Rufus or Etcher.
• Boot your computer from the USB drive.
• Follow the prompts to select your language and keyboard layout.
• Choose "Start Clonezilla" from the main menu.
• Select "device-image" mode.
• Choose the source disk (your Ubuntu installation disk) and the destination disk (an external drive or network location).
• Configure any additional settings (such as compression) and initiate the clone process.
• Once the cloning process completes, you will have a full backup of your Ubuntu system.

1. Deja Dup:

• Deja Dup is a backup utility that comes pre-installed with Ubuntu. If you don't have it, install it from the Ubuntu Software Center.
• Launch Deja Dup from the Applications menu.
• Set up a new backup location by selecting the desired storage location (external drive, network folder, or cloud storage like Google Drive).
• Configure the backup settings, such as the folders to include/exclude and the desired backup frequency.
• Initiate the backup process and wait for it to complete.
• Once the backup is finished, you will have a copy of your important files and folders.

Remember to store your backups in a separate location from your Ubuntu installation to ensure their safety. Additionally, it's always a good idea to verify the integrity of your backups before proceeding with the upgrade process.