I want to switch OS from Windows to Linux - will my Dropbox files be safe?

[msu69er]

I have a very old desktop PC currently running Windows 10 with Dropbox.  It cannot be upgraded to Windows 11.  I am thinking of changing the operating system to Linux Mint. 

What happens to my Dropbox files if I do this? 

Is Dropbox compatible with Linux?   If so, what version?

Are all my files retained in the Dropbox cloud (since the old computer will be reformatted)?

I also have a laptop running Windows 10 with Dropbox.  If I change the desktop OS to Linux, what will happen to my Dropbox files on the laptop?

You can tell that I am a neophyte here so I am appreciative of all the help I can get.  Thanks!

[Nancy · Accepted solution]

Welcome aboard our forum, @msu69er! Hope you’re well. 

First off, I’d like to mention that your Dropbox files are safe on our servers and your online account, so you don’t need to worry about this. 

Before switching OS on your computer(s), I’d suggest making sure all of your files have synced on www.dropbox.com and your Dropbox app is up to date. After that, you can log out/unlink your Dropbox app, and proceed with your OS update.

As for installing Dropbox on Linux, feel free to check out this Help Center article for all the necessary info. Keep in mind though that there are specific system requirements that are currently supported on LInux (for more info, check out this page).

In general, upon reinstalling the Dropbox app on a formatted device, it will re-sync everything you have saved on www.dropbox.com.

Let me know, if you need more help though.

[msu69er]

Thank you for the rapid response.  I will backup my diles and be sure that the app is up to date.   I feel more confident with this move following your response.  Have a great day!

[Nancy]

Glad I could help! Don’t hesitate to ping me for anything else and have a wonderful day, as well!