Installing Ubuntu Linux on Your Chromebook with Crouton

Introduction:

One of the most attractive features of Chromebooks is their simplicity and affordability. However, these sleek devices can become even more powerful by installing Ubuntu Linux with Crouton. This guide will thoroughly explain how you can unlock your Chromebook’s potential by installing Ubuntu Linux using the Crouton tool.

Step 1: Enabling Developer Mode on Your Chromebook

To begin, enable the Developer Mode on your Chromebook. This may vary slightly based on your device’s model but follows a general process:

1. Turn off your Chromebook.

2. Press and hold the Esc and Refresh keys while pressing the Power button.

3. Once the “OS Verification is OFF” screen appears, press Ctrl + D.

4. Press the Enter key to enable Developer Mode (Note: this process will powerwash your Chromebook, erasing all user data).

Step 2: Downloading Crouton

Now that your Chromebook is in Developer Mode, download the Crouton tool by visiting the following URL: https://github.com/dnschneid/crouton/raw/master/installer/crouton

Step 3: Installing Ubuntu Linux with Crouton

Once you have Crouton, open a terminal by pressing Ctrl+Alt+T and type “shell” followed by Enter. With this done, enter the following command to start the installation process:

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

(Note: Parameter ‘xfce’ can be replaced with ‘unity,’ ‘kde,’ or another desired desktop environment)

The installation will take some time to complete. Follow any prompts requesting additional information during this process.

Step 4: Starting Ubuntu Linux

After the installation is complete, use the following command to launch your new Ubuntu system:

sudo startxfce4

(Note: Replace ‘startxfce4’ with ‘startunity’ for Ubuntu Unity or ‘startkde’ for KDE)

Step 5: Switching Between Chrome OS and Ubuntu Linux

You can easily switch between your Chrome OS and Ubuntu Linux by using the following key combinations:

– Chrome OS to Ubuntu: Press Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Forward (or F2)

– Ubuntu to Chrome OS: Press Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Back (or F1)

Conclusion:

By following these simple steps, you can successfully install Ubuntu Linux on your Chromebook using the Crouton tool. This will transform your device into a more powerful machine, capable of handling the versatility and software options found in Linux-based operating systems. Enjoy the benefits of having both Chrome OS and Ubuntu at your fingertips!