Clean install or upgrade: which is better?

Updated 26 October 2026

A clean install starts fresh. An upgrade keeps your files and apps.

Clean install

• Removes old clutter and problems.
• Needs a backup and a bootable USB.

Upgrade

• Quicker and keeps settings.
• Can carry old problems forward.

For a very old release, a clean install from a new bootable USB is usually safest.

More guides

• Giving an old PC or Chromebook new life
• Turn a spare PC into a home server
• How much storage do you need on a USB drive?

Browse Linux USB drives See all products