How to create separate partitions for `/`, `/boot`, `/home`, and `swap` on Pop!_OS
Tags: popos, linux, ubuntu, tutorial
Published: 2023-12-22 14:05:39

An important aspect of system management in the world of Linux is the organization of directories. A common practice among Linux users and experienced professionals is to isolate certain directories from the rest of the operating system. This approach, while not mandatory, can provide many benefits that enhance the overall experience of using and maintaining a Linux system.

One such directory that is often isolated is the `/home` directory. Separating the `/home` directory from the rest of the operating system has many advantages. For example, it simplifies upgrades. This is because you can install a new or different Linux distribution without losing most of your settings, and personal files.

Also, it allows more efficient management of disk space. You can increase or decrease the size of the home partition without affecting the layout partition. If your root directory (`/`) is full, it can impact system performance. Having a separate `/home` partition will help keep your root directory as empty as possible.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to create separate partitions for `/boot`, `/`, `/home`, and `swap` on Pop!_OS.

**Please note that this process will erase all data on the drive you're partitioning, so make sure to back up any important data before proceeding.**

1. **Boot into Pop!_OS Live Disk**: Restart your computer and boot from the Pop!_OS installation media (USB/DVD). Choose 'Try Demo Mode' when prompted.

2. **Open GParted**: Once you're in the live environment, open GParted. It's a powerful tool for managing partitions.

3. **Select the correct drive**: In GParted, make sure you've selected the correct drive from the dropdown in the top-right corner.

4. **Create a new partition table**: From the 'Device' menu, select 'Create Partition Table'. Choose 'gpt' for UEFI systems or 'msdos' for BIOS systems.

5. **Create the `/boot` partition**: Click on the unallocated space and select 'New'. Enter 1024 in the 'New size (MiB)' field to create a 1GB partition. Under 'File system', select 'ext4'. Click 'Add'.

6. **Create the `/` (root) partition**: Repeat the process to create the root partition. The size depends on your needs, but 20GB is usually sufficient. Select 'ext4' as the file system.

7. **Create the `/home` partition**: Repeat the process to create the home partition. You can use the rest of the available space for this partition. Again, select 'ext4' as the file system.

8. **Create the `swap` partition**: If you want to create a swap partition, repeat the process one more time. The size should be equal to your RAM for systems with less than 8GB of RAM, or around 4GB for systems with more RAM.

9. **Apply changes**: Click on the green checkmark to apply the changes. This will format the drive and create the partitions.

10. **Install Pop!_OS**: Close GParted and open the Pop!_OS installer. When you get to the partitioning section, choose 'Custom (Advanced)'. Assign the mount points (`/boot`, `/`, `/home`, `swap`) to the corresponding partitions you created.

**Please note** that these steps are quite technical and **a mistake could result in data loss**. If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, consider seeking help from a professional. 

Good luck! 😊