Linux is one of the most popular OS in the world. As we know, Google Chromebook is getting all the hype nowadays with all the functions that Google offers. So, installing Linux in the Chromebook makes it sweet for the users. However, Linux doesn’t come with Chromebooks natively. You have to install it manually.
So, in this article, we will tell you the steps of how you could safely install Linux in your Chromebook. Also, we will let you know how to install popular apps on your Chromebook that run on Linux OS. We, however, want to give a caution that this Linux version runs on Beta Mode. So, you may experience some lags here and there in the apps. Although, typically we haven’t found any such issues while using.
Also Read: How to Install Chrome OS on Your PC
How to use Linux OS on Your Chromebook
In this section, we are going to discuss “How to Use Linux on Chromebook“. So, here we go:
Step 1: It is mandatory to check whether your Chromebook supports Linux or not. To do that, click on the ‘Clock’ on the bottom right of your screen to bring up the menu. Select the ‘Gear’ icon to open ‘Settings.’
Now, look carefully on the settings menu, if you see at the bottom an option, “Linux (Beta),” then you can install Linux. It means your system has the stability to install the OS.
Step 2 (Conditional): If in case, you can’t see “Linux (Beta),” then select “About Chrome OS.” Then, you need to try and update the firmware to the latest version. If you still can’t see “Linux (Beta)” even after the firmware update, it means your Chromebook doesn’t support Linux OS.
Step 3: Installing Linux on your Chromebook is pretty simple. You need to select “Linux (Beta),” and then you will get the option, “Turn on.” Click to turn it on and let your Chromebook install Linux. It takes around 4-5 mins to finish installing. You will see the Linux Terminal prompt once it completes.
Step 4: The final step includes updating Linux packages. For that, once the installation finishes, you will see the Linux Terminal, where you can type in commands. Over there, type in a command, “sudo apt-get update” and hit enter.
Now, you can see it downloads all the update files and completes the process. You will see “Done” written once the process ends.
Also Read: How to Use Chrome OS on a Raspberry Pi?
Steps to Install Linux Apps
Now, we must say that there are a limited number of apps available to install. So, let’s say, we will install Mozilla Firefox on your Chromebook running on Linux. Here are the steps below:
Step 1: Open Linux Terminal and on the cursor blinking position, type the command, “sudo apt-get install firefox-esr” and press enter. Then it will check online and find the installation file for Mozilla Firefox. It may ask your concern which you need to oblige with yes or no. Press “Y” and press enter.
Step 2 (Optional): Now, just like the OS, we advise every app that you install, you should update the app right after the installation finishes. To do that, type down the command, “sudo apt-get upgrade” and hit enter. It will automatically find and install every upgrade. You can use the app accordingly.
Conclusion
So, this is the easiest way to install Linux OS and its corresponding apps. However, you should know that you may find some discomfort while using the apps. We are not saying you will face issues; it is just a disclaimer.
