how do I install my operating system to my ibook without losing my files on the computer?

Question

I just had my ibook g3 get kind of screwy, I restarted it and it when it came back on it was a blue screen with the mouse cursor and now I am told that I have to reload the os10 operating system. I just wanted to know how to do this without losing all of my files that were on the system.

Answer 1

usually, it won't delete your files, if you tell him to. There is an option when you install osx that says something like "don't delete the home-folders". i don't remember where the option is to be found, though. however, i think all files which are deeper in the hierarchy than your home-folders, will be deleted.

But even then, i would recommend to do a backup of all your files.

I would try it that way: Start your computer with a live-cd of whatever os (i always have ubuntu lying around somewhere for such cases), mount your harddisc (live cds often don't do this automatically), save your files wherever you want them to be. then, reinstall osx.

remember: backup your files!! else, you might sound like this man:

http://backup.ytmnsfw.com/ (not safe for work!)

I don't take any responsibility for what might happen to your files.