How to Install Linux on Chromebook – The Easy Guide (2025)
April 5, 2025

How to Install Linux on Chromebook – The Easy Guide (2025)

Want to run Linux on your Chromebook? Whether you’re a developer, power user, or just curious about Linux freedom, this guide will walk you through the easiest way to install Ubuntu Linux on your Chromebook using Crouton—with step-by-step commands and tips.

Quick Install Summary

  1. Enable Developer Mode (Esc + Refresh + Power > Ctrl+D)
  2. Download Crouton from GitHub
  3. Open crosh terminal (Ctrl + Alt + T > type shell)
  4. Install Linux: sudo sh ~/Downloads/crouton -t xfce
  5. Start Linux: sudo startxfce4
  6. Use Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Back/Forward to toggle Chrome OS & Linux

What Is Linux & Why Install It?

Linux is a powerful open-source OS used by developers, privacy-focused users, and anyone seeking control. Chrome OS runs on a Linux kernel, but it’s locked down.

Installing Linux via Crouton lets you:

  • Run full Ubuntu alongside Chrome OS
  • Install Linux software
  • Unlock full terminal features
  • Switch OSes without rebooting

It’s ideal for Intel-based Chromebooks. If you have a newer Chromebook, check if your device supports Linux (Beta) aka Crostini.

Crouton vs Crostini: What’s the Difference?

FeatureCroutonLinux (Beta / Crostini)
OS SwitchKeyboard shortcutRun in container
App AccessFull Ubuntu (XFCE, Unity)Terminal + apps
SetupManual (developer mode)Built-in (newer Chromebooks)
Device SupportIntel onlyIntel & ARM supported

This guide covers Crouton for maximum Linux experience.

⚙ Part 1: Enable Developer Mode (Warning: Data Will Be Wiped!)

  1. Reboot into recovery:
    • Press Esc + Refresh then tap Power
  2. You’ll see: Chrome OS is missing or damaged. Ignore it
  3. Press Ctrl+D to continue
  4. Press Enter to turn off OS verification
  5. Wait ~10–15 minutes while it installs developer mode
  6. Chromebook reboots → setup fresh with Google account

Part 2: Download Crouton Script

Go to: https://github.com/dnschneid/crouton
Click the link to download the crouton file into your Downloads folder.

Part 3: Open Crosh Terminal and Run Crouton

  1. Open Chrome browser
  2. Press Ctrl + Alt + T to open crosh
  3. Type:
shell
  1. Run installation:
sudo sh ~/Downloads/crouton -t xfce

For other environments:

# KDE:
sudo sh ~/Downloads/crouton -t kde
# Unity:
sudo sh ~/Downloads/crouton -t unity
# Touchscreen + XFCE:
sudo sh ~/Downloads/crouton -t touch,xfce

Optional: Add -e for encryption

sudo sh -e ~/Downloads/crouton -t xfce

Part 4: Complete Setup & Start Linux

After install (~15 mins), you’ll be prompted for a username/password.

To launch Ubuntu (XFCE):

sudo startxfce4

To switch between OSes:

  • Ctrl + Alt + Shift + Back (←)
  • Ctrl + Alt + Shift + Forward (→)

You now have a dual-booted Chromebook with Linux on-demand!

Bonus Tips

  • Shared Downloads folder between Chrome OS and Linux
  • Use Ctrl + Alt + T → shell anytime to reenter
  • Crouton won’t impact Chrome OS updates (safe and reversible)

Uninstall Ubuntu Linux from Chromebook

  1. Open crosh → shell
  2. Enter:
cd /usr/local/chroots
sudo delete-chroot *
sudo rm -rf /usr/local/bin

OR: Press Spacebar at boot screen (OS verification is off) to re-enable verification. This removes all local data, including Linux.

FAQ – Linux on Chromebook

Is this safe for my Chromebook?
Yes—Crouton installs Linux in a separate environment. You can switch back anytime.

Will Chrome OS updates break Crouton?
Generally no, but occasionally Crouton may need an update after major Chrome OS changes.

What if I have an ARM Chromebook?
Some apps may not work. Crouton works best on Intel-based models.

Reddit Insight

“Crouton gave me a full Ubuntu desktop inside Chrome OS without rebooting. It’s honestly magic.” — u/terminalJack

Official Resources

Author: Jane Doe
Linux & Chrome OS Educator | 5+ years helping users unlock open-source power on Chromebooks.