I'm not a computer expert, just computer friendly. I want to replace my Windows with Zorin but conveniently keep all my saved documents, worksheets, photos, etc. I'm starting to understand that installing Zorin in my preferred manner will delete everything on my computer's hard drive. Of course I will backup to my portable hard drive right before the install but the few YouTube videos I've watched gloss over the fact that my computer's drive will be completely wiped clean and I'm going to have to manually reach into my portable backup hard drive to transfer stuff over - if Zorin's or Linux's filing system will allow. Where are all the videos on how to do this? If Zorin, or any Linux distros, is, practically speaking just for empty or new computers, why isn't this bad news shared up front? AI is telling me something different: that I will be able to keep my docs, etc. and that Zorin can work with the Windows filing system. What's the truth? I did not find any supporting posts. Any referred posts would be appreciated.
It is a pretty confusing mix.
Any Operating System install, whether it be Windows OS or Zorin OS, is the same process - it will wipe and use the space you allot to it.
This is so standard, I think that is why it is not mentioned outright - as many assume knowledge to be common.
That being said...
Yes, Zorin OS can work with NTFS partition data, even though Zorin OS cannot be installed as NTFS.
Windows, which is its own distinct operating system, uses the NTFS - File System.
Zorin OS uses EXT4 which is a journaling File System.
Zorin OS includes a compatibility package; ntfs-3g - This allows you to access another drive or partition that is formatted to NTFS and storing data upon it.
How you phrase your question can influence the answer, because what you intend and what you can do have many similarities.
Yes, you can preserve your documents and photos because you can back them up on another drive. But you cannot install Zorin OS, and keep the Windows OS documents in their File Structure - because Windows OS uses a file structure that is different from all other operating systems.
Welcome to the Forum!
If You want replace Windows with Zorin, the Drive will be wiped of Course. I mean Windows has to be deleted before Zorin can be installed. An Exception would be if You create a Dual-Boot System with Windows and Zorin beneath.
To keep Your Data simply copy them on an external Drive, then install Zorin and then copy the Data in Zorin.
You can also Install alongside Windows, keeping your iexisting programs and data in the Windows partition.
When you have ZorinOS installed alongside Windows as a dual-boot system, you can choose to boot either ZorinOS or Windows. This is convenient way to migrate from Windows to ZorinOS and allows you to get comfortable using ZorinOS and linux apps before burning bridges to your old Windows setup.
As others have already mentioned, it is recommended to backup all your data to a external drive, before attempting to install any new Operating System.
What I used to do as a computer engineer years back was copy your users folder straight to an external drive, mainly documents, videos, pictures, Don't forget the downloads, not using backup program and then plug it into Zorin and copy the users folder to your desktop. The files it recognizes will open up by double clicking the when your in Zorin like word and spreadsheet etc.. Easiest way and to find what files open and what files don't. Some documents though may be accociated with a programs own format which you may have to find the correct program in the app store to open them