How to Install Linux on a Chromebook and Unlock Its Full Potential

Here’s how to install Ubuntu and get more out of your Chromebook.

But sometimes, you just need a full desktop to get things done.

It’s speedy, powerful, and there only when you need it.

If you prefer a more traditional dual-boot environment, check outChrUbuntuinstead, but we’ll be using Crouton today.

We tested this on a Chromebook Pixel, but it should work on any Chromebook.

This will reboot your Chromebook into Recovery Mode.

As soon as you see Recovery Mode pop upthe screen with the yellow exclamation pointpress Ctrl+D.

This will bring up a prompt asking if you want to turn on Developer Mode.

Press Enter to continue, then give it some time.

When it’s done, it will return to the screen with the red exclamation point.

Leave it alone until it reboots into Chrome OS.

If you aren’t sure, look up instructions for your specific machine on enabling Developer Mode.

Press Ctrl+Alt+T to bring up a terminal on your Chromebook.

You canread more about that here.

Let your machine install Crouton.

This might be a good time to grab a cup of tea.

you might also install LXDE or KDE if you prefer.

In the latter case, you will also need to pressCtrl+Alt+Refreshafter pressing Ctrl+Alt+Forward to bring up the desktop.

If you’re on an ARM-based Chromebook, not all apps will be compatible.

Intel users will be much better off.

You either deal with a few tinier buttons or you go to a more standard resolution.

you’ve got the option to skip this by pressing Ctrl+D.

This will remove Crouton and restore Chrome OS in its original state.

This makes those great but seemingly dumbed-down Chromebooks a lot more useful (not to mention tempting).