Can I Change Linux Distro Without Losing Data?

When you switch Linux distributions, the default course of action is to wipe everything on your computer. The same is true if you perform a clean install of an upgrade to avoid potential complications. Turns out, it’s actually quite easy to perform clean installs or change Linux distros without losing data.

Can I change OS without losing files?

To answer your question, it’s not possible the OS will need a formatted partition before installation can begin. If it’s a prior revision of Microsoft’s OS, you can plug the drive to another system and retrieve the data from the partition but then again you’re going to need to know what you’re looking to retrieve.

Can distros switch?

Switching to a different distro means formatting at least part of your hard disk and starting again with configuration of your system. It could also wipe out all of your personal files, depending on how your disk is partitioned.