I am still happily using latest update to version 15 Pro. I might want to update to version 17 Pro. HOWEVER, I have been using version 15 for a good while & it is running GREAT. Settings are just the way I like them. My files are just right, as well.
BOTTOM LINE: I would like to install version 17Pro as an OVERWRITE of version 15Pro so that all my settings & files stay as they now are.
QUESTION #1: Your advice, please -- since my computer is running superbly on latest Zorin 15Pro version, should I NEVER upgrade to 17Pro?
QUESTION #2: If I choose to move to 17Pro, can I use 17Pro to do an overwrite of version 15Pro so as to leave my settings & files "as Is"?
Well firstly you would need to purchase the latest Pro version of Zorin OS. But before you do that I would advise that you download the Core version and run it in live mode (Try Zorin option), to make sure it runs well on your machine. Obviously, the Zorin Appearance themes have changed substantially from Zorin 15. In terms of application settings such as Firefox and any mail client you use will be stored in hidden folders in your /home directory, so you will need to back these up along with the rest of your critical data to an external device. Just as with that other OS, you can't keep your Printer drivers, your printer will need reinstalling. My recommendation to you is if you haven't got an external drive already, invest in one now and use Rescuezilla to make a complete backup of your existing system. Now I can't remember if Zorin 15, based on Ubuntu 18.04 had any life extensions, as end of life for 18.04 was April 2023. The other issues to consider is the kernel, whether your hardware will run with it, the most crucial part of the OS with regards to security. If you do purchase Zorin 17 Pro, then once you have installed your applicatuons, having made a separate backup of your /home folder, copy the hidden files into your new /home folder, together with your critical data. Basically you can't overwrite things and keep your existing settings without backup, you will need to do a fresh install. Because you are a Pro user you could direct your queries to the Zorin team using this request for help:
Hope this helps and best wishes for 2025.
1 Like
If you want Security Updates, You should upgrade. At least to Zorin 16.
If You have a seperate home Partition, you could theoretically do that with keep Your files in the home Directory. But Settings will not keep if I'm not wrong.
Thats my understanding from past experience of overwriting Z16 Core over Z15 Core using the "Something Else" installation method, but choosing NOT to Format /home partition during that process.
Important: do back up your /home partition using DejaDup (i.e. Backup app) just for safety and security.
Also important to may a note of all the apps you use, as you will be given a fresh set of apps with the new version which may or may not include all the ones you currently use on Z15. You would have to install those afresh if needed.
1 Like
Many many thanks for all the helpful replies. I am especially grateful to swarfender437 who suggested I contact Zorin Installation Support. I contacted them and JOY!!! They replied the next day. Here's the gist of their guidance:
-
Use the "Upgrade Zorin OS" app to do the upgrade. Doing so will preserve your files & settings during the upgrade.
==>NOTE: Since I have the PRO version, I did a search for the Upgrade app using Zorin's software manger (Briefcase icon). I happily discovered that the Upgrade Zorin OS app was already available & installed on my computer. It's found under System Tools on the Zorin Menu.
-
When using the Upgrade app, follow the instructions at...
==> Upgrade Zorin OS - Zorin Help
==>P.S I shall do the upgrade soon, just after I use Rescuezilla to image my system drive.
==> BTW --- This forum is the greatest forum! Zorin is the greatest OS!!!
May you have -
Walls for the wind
And a roof for the rain,
And drinks beside the fire.
Laughter to cheer you
And those you love near you,
And all that your heart may desire