i have done this (not as much as i should, but about every 3 months ). i use # cp -urf /home/* cp urf /etc/* and cp -urf /usr/local/* does that make sense? on another note; anyone know a good way to copy all my bookmarks and email from tbird on rh to tbird on ubuntu. ?? thx -- betty i. www.webcanine.com information for people who care for dogs.