Introduction
(How to Install Linux on a Chromebook) Fast and lightweight Chromebooks function best through internet tasks as their primary focus. A Chrome OS foundation restricts users who need further functionalities because of platform limitations. You can access multiple functionalities through Linux installations on Chromebooks since these let you operate desktop applications while programming and playing games.
Achieve detailed instructions to perform Linux installation on your Chromebook through this complete installation process. We present three installation strategies for Linux OS on Chromebooks which include the built-in Linux (Beta) feature together with Crouton for full Linux distribution setup and finishing with GalliumOS for running Linux applications.
Why Install Linux on a Chromebook?
There are several reasons why you might want to install Linux on your Chromebook:
- Enhanced Software Compatibility: Linux allows you to run applications not available on Chrome OS, such as advanced coding tools, media editors, and desktop applications.
- Improved Customization: Linux offers greater flexibility and control over your system.
- Offline Productivity: With Linux, you can work offline more efficiently using programs like LibreOffice, GIMP, and others.
- Development & Programming: Linux is a preferred environment for developers due to its compatibility with programming languages, compilers, and development tools.
Prerequisites Before Installing Linux
Before proceeding with the installation, ensure you have the following:
- A Compatible Chromebook: Most modern Chromebooks support Linux installation, but check if yours does by going to Settings > About Chrome OS.
- Backup Important Data: Installing Linux may require enabling Developer Mode, which will wipe your local data.
- Stable Internet Connection: Some installation methods require downloading files.
- At Least 10GB Free Storage: Ensure your Chromebook has enough space for Linux and its applications.
Using Linux (Beta) (Easiest Method)
Chrome OS has a built-in Linux development environment called Linux (Beta), also known as Crostini. This is the simplest way to install Linux on a Chromebook.
Enable Linux (Beta)
- Open Settings on your Chromebook.
- Scroll down and click Advanced > Developers.
- Find Linux development environment (Beta) and click Turn On.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to set up Linux. This will install a terminal and the basic Linux environment.
Install Applications
- Once the Linux terminal is installed, you can install software using the command line.
- For example, to install the popular text editor Vim, open the terminal and type:
- To install other apps like GIMP, LibreOffice, or VS Code, use:
Limitations of Linux (Beta)
- It runs in a sandboxed environment, so it has some hardware restrictions.
- Some graphical applications may not work smoothly.
Installing Linux with Crouton
Crouton (Chromium OS Universal Chroot Environment) allows you to run a full Linux distribution alongside Chrome OS.
Enable Developer Mode
- Turn off your Chromebook.
- Press and hold Esc + Refresh + Power until you see the recovery screen.
- Press Ctrl + D to enable Developer Mode.
- Press Enter to confirm. Your Chromebook will restart and reset.
- Wait for the reboot to complete (this may take a few minutes).
Install Crouton
- Open Chrome browser and download Crouton from its official GitHub page:
- https://github.com/dnschneid/crouton
- Open a terminal by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T, then type:
- Run the following command to install Ubuntu (or another Linux distribution):
- Wait for the installation to complete. It may take some time.
Start the Linux Environment
- To start Linux, type:
- To switch back to Chrome OS, press Ctrl + Alt + Shift + Back.
- To remove Crouton and Linux, run:
Installing GalliumOS (For a Complete Linux Experience)
GalliumOS is a lightweight Linux distribution designed specifically for Chromebooks.
Create a Bootable USB Drive
- Download GalliumOS from https://galliumos.org/download.
- Use Rufus (Windows) or Etcher (Mac/Linux) to create a bootable USB drive.
- Insert the USB into your Chromebook.
Enable Developer Mode
Follow the steps in Method 2 to enable Developer Mode.
Install GalliumOS
- Open Chrome OS shell by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T.
- Type:
- Install firmware using MrChromebox Firmware Utility:
- Follow on-screen instructions to install a custom BIOS.
- Restart and boot from the USB.
- Follow the installation prompts to install GalliumOS.
Post-Installation: Setting Up Linux
Updating Linux
After installation, update your Linux system:
Installing Essential Software
- Web Browser:
- Office Suite:
- Code Editors:
Enabling Sound and Hardware Support (GalliumOS)
Some Chromebooks require extra drivers. Install them using:
Conclusion
A Chromebook gains powerful application execution together with customizable system features when users install Linux on their device. All three ways to include Linux software on Chromebooks through the built-in Linux (Beta), Crouton or full GalliumOS installation offer different advantages and limitations. You can select the Linux distribution which matches your requirements and then take advantage of Linux capabilities on your Chromebook.
