Upgrading and Exploring Fedora Workstation 44: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Fedora Workstation 44 brings exciting updates, most notably GNOME 50 with refined accessibility, color management, and remote desktop features. New native Parental Controls let you set screen time limits and bedtimes directly from Settings. Many default applications—like the Document Viewer, File Manager, and Calendar—have also been improved. This guide walks you through upgrading your existing Fedora installation and exploring these new capabilities. Whether you're a seasoned Fedora user or new to the platform, follow these steps to get the most out of Fedora 44.

What You Need

• A working installation of Fedora Workstation 43 or earlier (or a clean install option)
• A reliable internet connection (broadband recommended)
• Administrator (sudo) access on your system
• At least 10 GB of free disk space for the upgrade
• An external backup drive or cloud storage for data backup (strongly recommended)
• Patience: the upgrade may take 30–60 minutes depending on your hardware and network speed

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your System

Before upgrading, ensure your current Fedora installation is fully updated. Open a terminal and run:

sudo dnf upgrade --refresh

This downloads the latest packages for your current release. After completion, reboot if a kernel update was applied. Next, back up important files to an external drive or cloud service. While upgrades are generally safe, unexpected interruptions can lead to data loss. Use tools like Deja Dup or simple rsync commands.

Step 2: Choose Your Upgrade Method

Fedora offers two primary upgrade paths: via GNOME Software (graphical) or the terminal (using dnf system-upgrade). Both reach the same result; pick the one you're most comfortable with. Below we cover both so you can decide.

Step 3: Upgrade Using GNOME Software (Recommended for Beginners)

GNOME Software provides a user-friendly interface:

1. Open Software from the Activities overview.
2. Click on the Updates tab.
3. If Fedora 44 is available, you'll see a banner saying "Fedora Linux 44 is now available". Click Download.
4. Wait for the download to complete (it may take several minutes).
5. Once downloaded, click Restart & Upgrade. Your system will reboot and begin the upgrade process automatically.
6. After the upgrade finishes, you'll boot into Fedora 44. Log in and enjoy.

Step 4: Upgrade Using the Terminal (Advanced Users)

If you prefer the command line:

1. Install the dnf-plugin-system-upgrade plugin if not already present:
   sudo dnf install dnf-plugin-system-upgrade
2. Download the upgrade packages:
   sudo dnf system-upgrade download --releasever=44
3. Review any dependency issues. If prompted about conflicts, resolve them by removing conflicting packages or using --allowerasing (with caution).
4. Initiate the upgrade reboot:
   sudo dnf system-upgrade reboot
5. Your system will reboot and perform the upgrade. After completion, you'll be greeted by the Fedora 44 login screen.

Step 5: Post-Upgrade Verification

Once you're in Fedora 44, confirm the upgrade succeeded:

• Open Settings → About to see Fedora Linux 44 (Workstation Edition).
• Run cat /etc/fedora-release in the terminal – it should output Fedora release 44.
• Check that your favorite applications work as expected.

Step 6: Explore GNOME 50 Enhancements

Now that you're on Fedora 44, take a tour of the new GNOME 50 features:

• Parental Controls: Go to Settings → Privacy → Parental Controls. Here you can set daily screen time limits and enforce a bedtime for specific user accounts. Perfect for families managing screen time.
• Accessibility Improvements: Look for refined screen reader support, better contrast themes, and enhanced keyboard navigation.
• Color Management: If you work with design or photography, new color profiles and calibration options are available in Settings → Color.
• Remote Desktop: GNOME 50 improves the built-in remote desktop feature, making it easier to connect to your machine from other devices. Enable it in Settings → Sharing → Remote Desktop.

Step 7: Try Updated Default Applications

Several core apps have been refreshed:

• Document Viewer (Evince): Enjoys faster rendering and improved annotation tools.
• Files (Nautilus): Revamped search filters and better handling of network locations.
• Calendar: Now integrates more smoothly with online accounts and offers a cleaner week view.
• Other apps like Connections (remote desktop client) and Maps also see minor but welcome enhancements.

To explore all changes, read the official GNOME 50 release notes.

Tips for a Smooth Upgrade

• Backup twice: Even if you trust the process, always keep a backup of critical data. Use both local and off-site copies.
• Check hardware compatibility: Some older graphics drivers may need manual updates after upgrade. If you use proprietary NVIDIA drivers, wait until they are updated for Fedora 44.
• Fedora Media Writer: If you prefer a fresh install instead of upgrade, download the Fedora 44 ISO using Fedora Media Writer and create a bootable USB.
• Join the community: For help and to share your experience, visit the Fedora Discussion forum or the Fedora Matrix chat. You can also check the Fedora Linux 44 Change Set wiki for the full list of changes.
• Patience during reboot: The first boot after upgrade may take longer as system services reconfigure. Do not force shutdown.
• Customize Parental Controls: If you have children using the system, spend time configuring screen time limits and bedtimes to your family's needs.