Linux on Chromebook: Jailbreak-free Guide

Running Linux on a Chromebook without Jailbreak or Powerwash: A Step-by-Step Guide

Abstract: Learn how to install Linux on a Chromebook without using Jailbreak or Powerwash methods. This step-by-step guide offers a legal and safe approach to using Linux on your Chromebook.

Created: 2024-04-08 by UserComp.com Editors

Running Linux on Chromebook without Jailbreak or Powerwash

Chromebooks are popular for their simplicity and security, but they can be limited when it comes to running certain applications. One way to overcome these limitations is by installing Linux on your Chromebook. This step-by-step guide will show you how to do that without jailbreaking or powerwashing your device.

Prerequisites

A Chromebook with an Intel or AMD processor
Developer mode enabled
At least 10GB of free storage space

Step 1: Enable Developer Mode

To enable developer mode, press Esc + Refresh + Power keys simultaneously while the Chromebook is booting up. This will bring up the recovery screen. Press Ctrl + D to enable developer mode. Note that this will erase all data on the device, so make sure to back up any important files before proceeding.

Step 2: Enable Linux (Beta)

Once developer mode is enabled, go to the settings menu and click on the Linux (Beta) option. Follow the prompts to install Linux on your Chromebook. This process may take several minutes.

Step 3: Update Linux

Once the installation is complete, open the terminal app and run the following command to update Linux:


sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get upgrade

Step 4: Install the Crosh Terminal

The Crosh terminal is a hidden terminal on Chromebooks that allows you to run commands with root privileges. To install it, follow these steps:

Press Ctrl + Alt + T to open the terminal app.
Type shell and press enter.
Type sudo install -Dt /usr/local/bin -m 755 /usr/share/crosh/crosh and press enter.
Type sudo chown root:root /usr/local/bin/crosh and press enter.

Step 5: Run Linux Commands in Crosh

Now that you have the Crosh terminal installed, you can run Linux commands with root privileges. To do this, follow these steps:

Press Ctrl + Alt + T to open the terminal app.
Type crosh and press enter.
Type shell and press enter.
Type sudo -s and press enter.
Type linux and press enter.
Type your Linux command and press enter.

Step 6: Install Your Favorite Linux Applications

Now that you have Linux installed on your Chromebook, you can install your favorite Linux applications. To do this, use the terminal app and run the appropriate command for the application you want to install.

Running Linux on your Chromebook without jailbreaking or powerwashing is a great way to expand the capabilities of your device. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can install Linux on your Chromebook and start using your favorite Linux applications today.

Enable developer mode on your Chromebook
Install Linux (Beta) from the settings menu
Update Linux using the terminal app
Install the Crosh terminal
Run Linux commands in Crosh with root privileges
Install your favorite Linux applications

References

Tags: Linux Chromebook Jailbreak Powerwash

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