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I am increasing my Ubuntu partition size (dual booting windows 10 and Ubuntu 16.04). Shrinking the Windows partition did not go well (but works now; in other question). So i am wondering if it is safe to increase the partition size using a Ubuntu live dvd.

Anwar
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PyotrK
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4 Answers4

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Define safe. Nothing is 100% safe, especially not when fiddling with your partition table. You should always make a backup before attempting to resize partitions. The operation involves making changes to the disk so it is possible that data will be lost.

Having said that, I must admit that I've done this many, many times over the years and have never had any problems. So yes, I'd say it's "safe". That doesn't mean that there is no possibility of failure though.

You can think of this like routine surgery. On the one hand it's routine, so it's safe; on the other hand, it's surgery and somebody will be cutting into you using a sharp object, so it's dangerous.

Bottom line: go ahead and do it, but make a backup first, just in case.

terdon
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I'll echo what others have said... backup backup backup.

Changing Windows partitions should always be done inside of Windows. To extend, just use Disk Management. To shrink, defrag first, then use Disk Management.

Assuming that you haven't done any damage after a problematic Windows partition resize, running gparted from the Ubuntu Live DVD is the way to go to resize the Ubuntu partition. If you need to resize, DON'T change the FRONT/LEFT of the Ubuntu partition, change the REAR/RIGHT. If you can't change the REAR/RIGHT, then MOVE the partition left, then resize the REAR/RIGHT.

Cheers, Al

heynnema
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It is as safe as editing partitions in Windows. If you know (exactly) what you're doing, it is 'safe'. If in doubt, just search on Youtube, there are many examples there. And make backups before attempting anything, just in case.

ipse lute
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Reinstalling Ubuntu automatically uses free space. It seems more reliable and safer than doing it by yourself. If possible, restore data from a backup.

PyotrK
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