However, XFCE is recommended because it is a lot faster. You can install Linux on your Chromebook using other desktop environments like Unity, GNOME, or LXDE. That’ll download and install the Ubuntu Linux package on your Chromebook using the XFCE-a fast and lightweight desktop environment that consumes low system resources. Download and save the crouton file to your Chromebook’s Downloads files.Visit the Crouton directory on GitHub to learn more about the Chroot environment and how it powers the Ubuntu Linux distro on Chromebook. Crouton (presently) doesn’t support other Linux distributions. The only limitation is that it is limited to Ubuntu only. Unlike Google’s “Crostini” project, Crouton provides a “pure” Linux environment. So you can switch to Linux and still access files created in Chrome OS.Ĭrouton achieves this by creating a “chroot” binary environment that runs on the Chrome OS. Additionally, the Linux distro has direct access to your Chromebook’s hardware and files. You can do that using key combinations or shortcuts. One major advantage of installing Linux via Crouton is that you don’t need to reboot your Chromebook to switch between Chrome OS and Linux. Install Ubuntu Linux on Chromebook (Using Crouton) Set up your Chromebook from scratch as though it is a new device and proceed to the next section to learn how to install Ubuntu Linux on your Chromebook. Install any available update or restart your device to finish pending updates. Head to Settings > About Chrome OS to check the Chrome OS version or update your Chromebook’s operating system.

Not all older Chromebook models support the Linux Beta (Crostini) feature out-of-the-box.Īdditionally, installing this Linux environment on Chromebook requires Chrome OS 69 or later.

Installing this Linux environment on your Chromebook depends on your device’s hardware and software configurations. The environment is also protected from malicious apps and files through Sandboxing-one of the security features built into Chromebooks. This Linux environment has official support from Google and has very little chance of breaking your Chromebook or voiding its warranty. Think of it as a contained virtual machine for running Linux in Chrome OS without having to deal with Linux codes and commands. The major advantage of this feature is that you get to enjoy Linux-based apps and tools in a secured environment. Install Linux Beta (Crostini) on ChromebookĬrostini describes Google’s official project that allows Chromebook users to run Linux without entering the Chrome OS Developer Mode.

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