Converting Linux File System from Ext3 to Ext4

The (Fourth Extended File System) EXt4 is an latest and effective journaling file system that is originated as successor of Ext3 file system. It gives high performance and removes 64-bit storage limits of earlier file systems. The file system helps backward compatibility with the Ext3 and Ext2 file systems. Thus it is possible to mount Ext2 and Ext3 file system as Ext4. To get benefit of these advanced features, you require to change file system from Ext3 to Ext4. Before changing the file system, you should require to create full backup of your data as failure of this process may lead to data loss and require Linux recovery to be resolved out.

Changing a non-root file system

Changing Ext3 file system, which can be unmounted, this is simple process. Follow underwritten steps for conversion:

• Unmount the volume.

• Run file system check using fsck.ext3 command to make sure that it is in sane situation.

• Enable new features of Ext4 on file system using tune2fs command.

• Run fsck.ext4 command. It will find errors that are usual. Let the command fix them.

• Edit /etc/fstab file to make it “Ext4” in place of “Ext3” file system for /home.

• Mount your new file system.

Changing a root file system

Changing the root file system is quite tricky as you won't be able to unmount it since your computer is running on it. Go through the given below steps to convert your root file system:

• First thing is to change /etc/fstab file as “Ext4” in place of “Ext3” for root volume.

• Remount the root file system as read-only.

• Check your file system using fsck.ext3 command. It will then restart your system.

• Enable all Ext4 features on root file system.

• Check your root file system for errors using fsck.ext4 command.

Though, it is a good idea to convert your file system from Ext3 to Ext4, but in case if the process fails and you do not have complete backup of your precious data, you might encounter serious data loss and need to carry out data recovery Linux.

Recovery is best possible using third party Linux Recovery Software. The applications recovers your data in most of the data loss situations, without demanding sound and prior technical skills from you. With read-only and non-destructive conduct, Linux data recovery software are absolute safe to use.