How to install Linux Crouton on a Chromebook?

Linux Crouton is a set of scripts that allow you to install a Debian-based Linux distribution on top of Chrome OS. Crouton is perfect for developers, students, and anyone who needs a fast and easy way to run multiple Linux distributions on their Chromebook. Let’s learn more about the operating system and how to install it on your device.

What is Chrome OS in the first place?

Chrome OS is a Linux-based operating system designed by Google. It is intended for use on both touchscreen and conventional personal computers and laptops. The operating system is based on the Linux kernel and uses the Google Chrome web browser as its primary user interface.

There are several reasons for using Chrome OS. One reason is that it is very lightweight and does not require a lot of resources to run. It makes it ideal for use on low-powered devices such as Chromebooks. Another reason is that Chrome OS is very secure and includes built-in malware protection and automatic updates. Finally, Chrome OS is easy to use and comes with various apps and services available through the Google Play Store.

What is Linux Crouton?

Linux Crouton is a set of scripts that allow you to create a chroot environment on your Chromebook. It enables you to run a full-fledged Linux distribution alongside Chrome OS. It also lets you utilize diverse programming languages.

Why install a second OS on a Chromebook?

You might want to install Linux on your Chromebook for many reasons, including:

• Using Linux-specific applications: Many applications are only available for Linux, so if you want to use them on your Chromebook, you’ll need to install Crouton.
• Programming languages: Some programming languages can only be used on Linux, so if you want to use them on your Chromebook, you’ll need to install Crouton.
• Customization: Crouton allows you to customize your chroot environment to suit your needs. For example, you can install a different window manager or desktop environment.
• Speed: Linux is known for its impressive speed. You can browse pages effectively and create things quickly—for example, visuals. Great Animation maker online – interesting videos can easily be made with Vista Create right via your browser, either from the Chrome OS or Crouton Linux.

A step-by-step guide to installing Linux Crouton on a Chromebook

Here is the list of things you need to do to install Linux Crouton on a Chromebook:

1. Enter Developer Mode on your Chromebook. You can do it by pressing the Esc + Refresh keys, and then holding down the Power button while the Chromebook is booting up. You should see a message that says “OS verification is OFF”; press Enter to continue.
2. Once Developer Mode has been enabled, you will see a new “Developer Mode” option in your Chromebook’s BIOS settings. Enter this BIOS menu and disable the “Verified Boot” and “OS Verification” options.
3. Download the Crouton script from GitHub.
4. Open a Terminal window on your Chromebook (by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T) and run the following command: sudo sh -e ~/Downloads/crouton -t cli-extra,core,extension,xiwi -r trusty

This will begin installing a Linux distribution called “Trusty Tahr” using Crouton. Once the installation is complete, you can launch Trusty Tahr by running the command “sudo starttrusty” in your Terminal window.

Switching between the two environments

The good thing about having the two operating systems on a Chromebook is that it allows you to jump between them nearly effortlessly. First, however, for you to be able to switch between Crouton and Chrome, you need to start the former. It’s straightforward; press Ctrl+Alt+T and use either of these two ways to launch the Linux system:

• sudo enter-chroot startxfce4
• sudo startxfce4

Entered the second environment? Awesome! Now, how do you switch between them? The switching process is elementary, too. Here, however, the command depends on your machine. The best way to do it this way: first try to press Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Back and Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Forward once you have the Linux environment on. Remember that Back and Forward aren’t the arrow keys but buttons on the top row, near the Escape button. If it works, good. If it doesn’t, no worries. Try this command instead: Ctrl+Alt+Back and Ctrl+Alt+Forward plus Ctrl+Alt+Refresh.

Although the second environment doesn’t put much pressure on the Chrome OS, it’s best to terminate the Linux session and exit the chroot. Navigate to the menu and choose the “log out” option. You will be redirected to the Chrome OS. Don’t use the shutdown option unless you want to power your Chromebook down.

Things you can do with Linux Crouton

Crouton is a great environment to play around and get the gist of Linux. You can do all the basic stuff in Crouton, including downloading the local image and text editors and development tools. Besides, you don’t have to worry about files downloaded when on Crouton. Using the downloads directory will make the files visible on Chrome OS.

Conclusion

Linux Crouton is a great way to get more out of your Chromebook. It’s easy to install and provides access to a wealth of Linux-based software. Whether you’re looking to improve your productivity or want to explore what Linux offers, Crouton is an excellent option. Have some fun installing and using Crouton!