re-install without killing all else

[keforex]

Is it possible to re-install ubuntu without destroying the data (home folder)?

When I install I usually use the "use entire disk" option and everything is all fresh but I lose the data (which is normal, I know) - but can I just reinstall maintaining all the non-system data? i.e. Home, Desktop, etc... folders?

[merlinus]

If they are on separate partitions, definitely. YOu would choose manual at the partitioning menu, and specify mountpoints, whether to format the partition, and such.

If not, generally you will have to back up and restore your data.

Perhaps next time you can create at least a separate /home partition.

[keforex]

Sounds good, is there any place I can read about how to create these folders on different partitions? Thanks in advance!

[merlinus]

This may help:

https://help.ubuntu.com/community/HowtoPartition

https://help.ubuntu.com/community/DrivesAndPartitions