Upgrading Linux Mint is usually safe — but smart users know that backing up your system first is essential. The easiest way to do that on Mint is with Timeshift, the built-in snapshot tool that lets you roll back your system if anything goes wrong.
Here’s how to create a Timeshift snapshot before upgrading Linux Mint.
✅ Why Use Timeshift?
Timeshift creates snapshots of your root filesystem — so if your upgrade fails, you can restore your system to the exact state it was in before. It’s like System Restore for Linux, but more powerful.
🔧 Step 1: Launch Timeshift
Linux Mint comes with Timeshift pre-installed.
- Open the Start Menu
- Search for Timeshift and launch it
- Enter your admin password when prompted
📂 Step 2: Choose Snapshot Type
When you run Timeshift for the first time, you’ll be asked to choose a snapshot type:
- RSYNC: Most compatible, works on any filesystem
- BTRFS: Only available if your system uses the BTRFS file system
For most users, RSYNC is the safe choice.
📁 Step 3: Select Snapshot Location
Choose where to store your snapshot:
- You can use an external drive or a separate partition
- Make sure there’s enough free space (at least several GB)
Avoid storing the snapshot on your root partition if possible — in case the upgrade corrupts it.
▶️ Step 4: Create the Snapshot
- Click “Create”
- Timeshift will begin copying your system files and settings
- This may take several minutes depending on system size
Once it’s done, you’ll see the snapshot listed in the main Timeshift window.
🔄 Step 5: Proceed With the Upgrade
Now that your backup is ready:
- Open Update Manager
- Click the “Edit” menu
- Select “Upgrade to Linux Mint 21.3” (or whatever version is next)
If anything goes wrong, reboot into a live USB and restore your snapshot using Timeshift.
💡 Bonus Tips
- Don’t forget to back up personal files separately — Timeshift focuses on system files, not your home directory.
- Keep old snapshots only as long as needed. They can take up a lot of disk space over time.
- You can set Timeshift to create automatic snapshots on a schedule too.
Final Thoughts
Creating a Timeshift snapshot before upgrading Linux Mint is the easiest way to protect your system. It only takes a few minutes, and it can save you hours of troubleshooting if something breaks.
Upgrades are exciting — but having a safety net is smarter.
Leave a Reply