Re: Upgrade vs Reinstall
I think the "upgrades don't work properly" anecdotes mostly come from new users, who have messed around with their systems so much that they don't work in the Ubuntu-approved way.
For instance, if you install graphics card drivers manually, then try to dist-upgrade, there will be a driver/kernel mismatch. New users might not realise that they just need to reinstall their driver, and think that "the upgrade didn't work".
Other problems could arise from the semi-intelligence that the Update Manager has, that performs certain system operations over and above what the packages themselves define. If you've already done something that will conflict with what the Update Manager will do, then you will run into troubles.
I've dist-upgraded a number of times and never had any real issues. If you want to start afresh, or you want to make sure you're getting everything that's available in a new Ubuntu install, then do a fresh install by all means. My last dist-upgrade was missing notify-osd and the New Wave theme.
Last edited by 3rdalbum; August 4th, 2009 at 12:00 PM.
I try to treat the cause, not the symptom. I avoid the terminal in instructions, unless it's easier or necessary. My instructions will work within the Ubuntu system, instead of breaking or subverting it. Those are the three guarantees to the helpee.
Bookmarks