howto backup with system settings and installed programs

[Fred-VIE]

Hello,

I have installed 24.04, then I set it up like I want it to be, made a backup (with the backups software in the system settings), wanted to upgrade the kernel but learned that it wont work with my version. I updated the software and drivers and let it be.

After a restart it did not start anymore. Black screen. Since I wanted Kernel 6.14 anyways and I have learned, that finding a problem takes longer than a reinstall, I installed V25.04, played back the backup and none of the programs I used to have in 24.04 are installed anymore. The window settings are there but are not working (probably due to a KDE-Version upgrade (my guess).

I have just backed up the home folder because I thought that is where the installed programs are as well.

How do I make a backup that includes all the apps I have installed and settings I have made?

[oshunluvr]

Installed programs are in various locations depending on the program, but not ever in your home folder unless you force that change. Normally, an installed program should be available to any user, so if it was in your home, it wouldn't be. Other things, like service menus and the like may be in your home folder or not depending on if you wanted it to be available for everyone or just you.

The answer to your question is: Make a full backup of your root install and home folders. The "how" would depend on file system type and your personal preference of tools.

[jlittle]

Some maybe relevant points I'd recommend thinking about:

• A characteristic of flatpaks is that, by default and recommendation, they install to you your home directory. Whether that's an advantage is debatable.
• Take notes whenever you make a change to a system, including setting changes and installing anything.
• Always use the command line when installing software, and log your commands. Some folks log output as well, but I find that needs trimming. Some folks load the log into a database, but I just use text files and rely on grep.
• IMO a "normal" Linux user, such as one who participates in forums like ours, is likely to want to do a fresh install at some point. Doing it in throwaway installs makes one aware of what's involved.