Can You Install Linux on a Chromebook?

In recent years, Chromebooks have gained immense popularity due to their simplicity, speed, and affordability. However, for power users and developers, the limitations of Chrome OS can be a constraint. This has led many to ask: can you install Linux on a Chromebook? The answer is yes—and there are multiple methods to do it, depending on your needs and hardware compatibility.

Why Install Linux on a Chromebook?

Installing Linux on a Chromebook unlocks powerful capabilities such as:

Access to full-fledged Linux applications (e.g., GIMP, LibreOffice, VS Code)
Development environment for coding in Python, C++, JavaScript, etc.
A more traditional desktop experience
Ability to use terminal-based tools and package managers (e.g., apt, pacman)

Official Method: Crostini (Linux (Beta))

Google introduced Crostini as a native way to run Linux on Chrome OS. It’s available on most modern Chromebooks.

Features:

Secure container-based environment
Integrated with Chrome OS file system
No need to disable OS verification or developer mode

How to Enable:

Go to Settings > Advanced > Developers
Enable “Linux development environment (Beta)”
Follow the setup wizard

Once installed, a Debian-based terminal opens, and you can install apps using apt.

sudo apt update && sudo apt install gimp

Note: Crostini uses a container that is sandboxed and secure but may not offer full hardware access (e.g., GPU acceleration).

Advanced Method: Installing a Full Linux Distro via chrx or Crouton

If you need full control over your OS, or require a different Linux distribution, you can use more advanced methods like chrx or Crouton.

chrx (Dual-boot):

Supports distributions like GalliumOS and Ubuntu
Requires enabling Developer Mode
Dual-boots Chrome OS and Linux

Basic Steps:

sudo crossystem dev_boot_usb=1 dev_boot_legacy=1
curl -Os https://chrx.org/go && sh go

Crouton (Chroot Environment):

Allows switching between Chrome OS and Linux without rebooting
Supports Ubuntu and Debian variants

Installation Command:

sudo install -Dt /usr/local/bin -m 755 ~/Downloads/crouton
sudo crouton -t xfce

Note: Crouton is less secure as it disables OS verification.

Hardware Compatibility and Considerations

Before installation, consider the following:

Processor Architecture: Most Chromebooks use x86_64 or ARM processors
Storage Space: Linux installations need at least 10-20 GB free
Firmware Access: Some devices have locked bootloaders

Use the MrChromebox.tech firmware utility script for legacy boot firmware if needed.

Yes, you can install Linux on a Chromebook—and the experience is smoother than ever. Whether you opt for Crostini for a quick setup or dive into chrx for full Linux control, Chrome OS now serves as a versatile platform bridging simplicity and power.

Always back up your data before making OS-level changes, and check your device’s compatibility. With the right approach, your Chromebook can become a fully functional Linux powerhouse.