How to Install Linux on Chromebook without Developer Mode

Chromebooks are becoming increasingly popular because of their affordability and ease of use. They are designed to be lightweight and efficient, perfect for students and professionals who require basic computing functions. However, there may be times when users need to run more complex applications or software not available on Chrome OS. This is where Linux comes in. Linux is an open-source operating system that is more flexible than Chrome OS, making it possible to run a wider range of software. Installing Linux on a Chromebook is also a great way to breathe new life into an older Chromebook that may no longer receive updates from Google.

In this article, we will discuss how to install Linux on a Chromebook without Developer Mode.

Can all Chromebooks run Linux?

Not all Chromebooks can run Linux, but many of them can. It depends on the model of the Chromebook and whether or not it has the necessary hardware components to run Linux. Additionally, some Chromebooks have firmware that is locked down by the manufacturer, making it difficult or impossible to install Linux. It is important to check the hardware specifications of your Chromebook and do research on whether or not it is compatible with Linux before attempting to install it. There are also some Chromebooks that are specifically designed to run Linux, such as the Chromebook Pixel and the Acer Chromebook C720P.

What version of Linux is best for Chromebook?

The best version of Linux for a Chromebook depends on several factors, such as the model of the Chromebook and the user’s needs and preferences. However, some popular versions of Linux that are known to work well on Chromebooks include:

  1. GalliumOS: GalliumOS is a lightweight Linux distribution that is specifically designed for Chromebooks. It is based on Xubuntu and includes several optimizations that make it easy to use on a Chromebook.
  2. Ubuntu: Ubuntu is a popular Linux distribution that is known for its user-friendliness and stability. It is compatible with many Chromebook models and has a large community of users and developers.
  3. Debian: Debian is a robust and stable Linux distribution that is known for its security and reliability. It is lightweight and can run well on older Chromebook models.
  4. Arch Linux: Arch Linux is a flexible and customizable Linux distribution that is suitable for advanced users who want more control over their system. It requires more setup and configuration than other distributions, but it can provide a highly customized and efficient Linux experience.

Ultimately, the best version of Linux for a Chromebook depends on the user’s preferences and needs. It is recommended to do research on the different versions of Linux and try out different distributions to find the one that works best for you.

Part 1. Install Linux on My Chromebook with Developer Mode

There are different methods to install Linux on a Chromebook, but the two most common methods are using Crouton and using GalliumOS. Here are the steps to install Linux using each of these methods:

Method 1. Install Linux on Chromebook with Crouton

Crouton is a popular tool used to install Linux on a Chromebook. It allows users to run Linux alongside Chrome OS, which means that users can switch between the two operating systems without having to reboot the device. Here are the steps to install Linux using Crouton:

Step 1: Enable Developer Mode

Before installing Crouton, you need to enable Developer Mode on your Chromebook. This process will wipe all data on your device, so make sure to back up any important files.

  • Press and hold the Esc and Refresh keys on your keyboard.
  • While holding these keys, press the Power button. When the Chromebook boots up, you will see a message that says "Chrome OS is missing or damaged."
  • Ignore this message and press Ctrl + D. You will see a warning that says "To turn OS verification OFF, press Enter."

Press Enter to proceed. Wait for the Chromebook to reboot into Developer Mode. This process may take several minutes.

Step 2: Download Crouton

After enabling Developer Mode, you can download Crouton from the official website. Choose the appropriate version of Crouton for your Chromebook model.

Step 3: Open the Chrome OS Terminal

Press Ctrl + Alt + T to open the Chrome OS terminal.

Step 4: Install Crouton

In the terminal, type the following command to install Crouton:

sudo sh ~/Downloads/crouton -t [target]

Replace [target] with the Linux distribution and desktop environment you want to install. For example, to install Ubuntu with the Xfce desktop environment, use the following command:

sudo sh ~/Downloads/crouton -t xfce,keyboard,touch,extension,xiwi -r focal

This will download and install Ubuntu alongside Chrome OS on your Chromebook.

Step 5: Start the Linux Environment

To start the Linux environment, type the following command in the terminal:

sudo startxfce4

Replace xfce4 with the desktop environment you installed in Step 4.

Step 6: Switch Between Chrome OS and Linux

To switch between Chrome OS and Linux, press Ctrl + Alt + Shift + Back or Ctrl + Alt + Shift + Forward. This will switch between the two environments.

Method 2: How to Install Linux on Chromebook Using GalliumOS

GalliumOS is a Linux distribution that is specifically designed for Chromebooks. It is based on Xubuntu and includes a range of features and optimizations that make it easy to use on a Chromebook. Here are the steps to install GalliumOS on a Chromebook:

Step 1: Enable Developer Mode

Before installing GalliumOS on your Chromebook, you need to enable Developer Mode. Here’s how to do it:

  • Press and hold the Esc and Refresh keys on your keyboard.
  • While holding these keys, press the Power button.
  • When the Chromebook boots up, you will see a message that says "Chrome OS is missing or damaged." Ignore this message and press Ctrl + D. You will see a warning that says "To turn OS verification OFF, press Enter."
  • Press Enter to proceed. Wait for the Chromebook to reboot into Developer Mode. This process may take several minutes.

Step 2: Download GalliumOS

Once you have enabled Developer Mode, you can download the GalliumOS image that is compatible with your Chromebook model. You can find the appropriate image from the GalliumOS website.

Step 3: Create a Bootable USB Drive

After downloading the GalliumOS image, you need to create a bootable USB drive that you will use to install GalliumOS. You can use a tool like Etcher or Rufus to create the bootable USB drive. Follow the instructions provided by the tool to create the USB drive.

Step 4: Boot from the USB Drive

Insert the bootable USB drive into your Chromebook and reboot it. While the Chromebook is booting up, press the Esc key to enter the boot menu. Select the USB drive from the list of bootable devices and press Enter.

Step 5: Install GalliumOS

After booting from the USB drive, you will be prompted to install GalliumOS. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process. You will need to select the language, time zone, and partition size during the installation process.

Step 6: Reboot and Complete Setup

After the installation is complete, remove the USB drive from your Chromebook and reboot it. Follow the setup wizard to complete the installation process and set up your user account.

Part 2: Install Linux on Chromebook without Developer Mode

This method involves installing Crouton in Guest Mode, which allows you to run Linux alongside Chrome OS without enabling Developer Mode. Here are the steps to install Linux using Crouton in Guest Mode:

Step 1: Download Crouton

Download Crouton from the official website.

Step 2: Open the Chrome OS Terminal

Press Ctrl + Alt + T to open the Chrome OS terminal.

Step 3: Install Crouton

In the terminal, type the following command to install Crouton in Guest Mode:

sudo sh ~/Downloads/crouton -r [release] -t [target] -e -u -p [password]

Replace [release] with the Ubuntu release you want to install (e.g. bionic) and [target] with the desktop environment you want to install (e.g. xfce). Replace [password] with a password for the Guest account.

Step 4: Start the Linux Environment

To start the Linux environment, type the following command in the terminal:

sudo enter-chroot startxfce4

Replace xfce4 with the desktop environment you installed in Step 3.

Step 5: Switch Between Chrome OS and Linux

To switch between Chrome OS and Linux, press Ctrl + Alt + Shift + Back or Ctrl + Alt + Shift + Forward. This will switch between the two environments.

Is it worth putting Linux on a Chromebook?

Putting Linux on a Chromebook can be worth it depending on the user’s needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:

  • Flexibility: Linux provides more flexibility than Chrome OS and allows users to run a wider range of software. If you need to use specific applications or software that are not available on Chrome OS, then installing Linux can be beneficial.
  • Security: Linux is known for its security and privacy features. If you are concerned about security and want a more secure operating system than Chrome OS, then installing Linux can be beneficial.
  • Customization: Linux allows for more customization than Chrome OS, giving users more control over their system. If you want to customize your operating system and have more control over how it works, then installing Linux can be beneficial.
  • Hardware requirements: Depending on the version of Linux and the hardware requirements, installing Linux on a Chromebook can improve its performance and extend its lifespan.

Tips and Suggestions:

  • Make sure to check the compatibility of your Chromebook with Crouton before installing it.
  • Before installing Crouton, it is recommended to create a recovery image of Chrome OS in case you want to switch back in the future.
  • Be aware that installing Crouton may void your Chromebook’s warranty and may cause issues with certain hardware components.
  • Make sure to keep your Linux installation up-to-date by regularly installing updates and security patches.
  • Join the Crouton community forums or IRC channels for help and support with any issues or questions you may have.

Suggestions

Installing Linux on a Chromebook is a great way to get access to a powerful and secure operating system. However, it is important to make sure that your Chromebook is compatible with Linux first, and to follow the steps carefully. If you are new to Linux, it is also recommended that you take some time to learn the basics, as this will make it easier to use and customize your Linux environment.