How to change file system in linux

[jeyachandran88]

Hi

I would like to change change file system from ext2 to ext3 without losing any datas, guide me how to do.

Thanks in advance

[Irithori]

You need a linux/kernel that supports ext3 of course.

As always for procedures, that affect a whole partition/disk: Backup your data first.

After that, you can create a journal with

tune2fs -j <YOUR_EXT2_PARTITION>

and mount the partition as ext3.
If it worked, then make it reboot proof in /etc/fstab

[pradeeprajkumar]

If you wish to partition the disks using a GUI application, gparted would be the best option.

[Rubberman]

You can do that, if your system kernel supports ext3, since ext3 is just an extension of ext2. The command tune2fs with the -j option will add an ext3 journal to an existing ext2 file system, turning it into an ext3 file system. Check the tune2fs man page for details on how to do that.