How to Upgrade to Zorin 17 from 16: A Step-by-Step Guide

Upgrading to Zorin 17 from 16? Follow our quick guide for a hassle-free update, unlocking new features, and better stability.

With the release of Zorin 17, many of you might be keen to jump from the previous version, Zorin 16. And why not? It brings many improvements, such as a revamped menu, the Spatial Desktop, tiling capabilities, enhanced apps, etc.

Furthermore, staying current also means improved security and more pleasing overall performance.

So, in this step-by-step guide, we will walk you easily through the process of upgrading to Zorin 17 from Zorin 16, covering key points and essential steps to navigate this major version transition successfully.

Perform a System Backup

It is highly recommended that you back up your essential files and configurations. We recommend making aย full system backupย so that if something goes wrong, you can restore your system with all the vital data to its previous state.

In addition, you can always use a command like the one shown below, which will archive all of the more critical directories and their contents in a tar.gz archive.

sudo tar czf /zorin16.tar.gz \
     --exclude=/zorin16.tar.gz \
     --exclude=/dev \
     --exclude=/mnt \
     --exclude=/proc \
     --exclude=/sys \
     --exclude=/tmp \
     --exclude=/media \
     --exclude=/lost+found \
     /Code language: JavaScript (javascript)

Feel free to add moreย โ€œโ€“exclude=โ€ย parameters if needed. Finally, the command creates a backup of all files in โ€œzorin16.tar.gzโ€ located on the root partition (/), which you should ideally transfer to another computer or drive, for example,ย using the SCP command.

Update All Software

Ensure your currentย Zorin 16ย system is fully upgraded and has no packages waiting to be updated. Open from the “Zorin Menu” > “System Tools” > “Software Updater,” and make sure there are no pending updates.

Software Updater

If any updates are available, install them and, if necessary, reboot the system. After the system boots, log in. Below is our current fully updated Zorin 16.3 system before we start the upgrade to Zorin 17.

Zorin 16

Upgrade to Zorin 17 from 16

Everything is now in place to begin the upgrade to Zorin 17. Launch the Update Manager app by navigating to “Zorin Menu” > “System Tools” > “Upgrade Zorin OS.”

Since we’re using the distribution’s Core version, we’ll click the “Upgrade” button for Zorin OS 17 Core. Please be aware that if you’re considering switching to the Pro version, it is a paid upgrade and requires a pre-purchased license for access.

Upgrade Zorin OS

You will be prompted for the user password needed to execute processes with sudo privileges during the upgrade. Enter it and hit “Authenticate.”

Authentication Required

The system will start performing preliminary checks that will take a few minutes, so wait for them to finish.

Performing preliminary checks.

After completing the checks, you can upgrade to Zorin 17. To initiate the process, click on the “Upgrade” button.

Readiness to start the upgrade.

The actual upgrade process to Zorin 17 will start. Downloading and installing the updates will take some time; be patient and wait for the process to complete.

Upgrade to Zorin 17 from Zorin 16.

When it’s finished, you’ll be notified that the upgrade has succeeded and a reboot is required. Hit the “Restart” button.

Upgrade to Zorin 17 succeeded.

That’s all. After the reboot, log in and enjoy your newly upgraded Zorin 17 system.

The system was successfully upgraded to Zorin 17 from 16.

Conclusion

Upgrading to Zorin 17 from Zorin 16 is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy the latest features, security updates, and performance enhancements. Furthermore, we recommend you also check theย official manualย for additional help or valuable information.

Thanks for your time! Your feedback and comments are most welcome.

Bobby Borisov

Bobby Borisov

Bobby, an editor-in-chief at Linuxiac, is a Linux professional with over 20 years of experience. With a strong focus on Linux and open-source software, he has worked as a Senior Linux System Administrator, Software Developer, and DevOps Engineer for small and large multinational companies.

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