How to run a full linux desktop in a chromebook

 

How to run a full linux desktop in a chromebook

Chromebooks are popular for their simplicity, security, and affordability, but many users may not know that it's possible to run a full Linux desktop on their Chromebook. This can be useful for users who need access to Linux-based software or want to explore the world of Linux. In this article, we'll show you how to run a full Linux desktop on your Chromebook.

Before we get started, it's important to note that running Linux on a Chromebook requires enabling Developer Mode. This process can erase your local data, so it's important to backup any important files before proceeding.

Step 1: Enable Developer Mode :

1. Turn off your Chromebook and hold the Esc and Refresh keys while pressing the power button.
2. When you see a warning screen, press the Ctrl + D keys.
3. After a few seconds, you'll be asked if you want to turn on Developer Mode. Press Enter to enable it.
4. Your Chromebook will restart and erase your data. Once the process is complete, log in as you normally would.

Step 2: Install Linux :

1. Open the Chromebook settings and click on the "Linux (Beta)" section.
2. Turn on the Linux (Beta) feature and follow the on-screen instructions to install Linux.
3. Once the installation is complete, you'll be able to launch the Linux terminal from the Chrome OS App Launcher.

Step 3: Install a Desktop Environment :

1. Open the terminal and run the following command to update the package manager:

    sudo apt update

2. Install a desktop environment of your choice, such as GNOME or XFCE, by running the following command:

    sudo apt install gnome-desktop-environment

3. Once the installation is complete, log out of your Chromebook and log back in. You should now be able to choose the Linux desktop environment from the login screen.

Step 4: Configure Your Linux Desktop :

1. Open the terminal and run the following command to install the necessary drivers:

    sudo apt install xserver-xorg-video-intel

2. Run the following command to configure the display:

    sudo bash -c "echo -e 'Section "Device"\n\tIdentifier "Intel Graphics"\n\tDriver "intel"\nEndSection' > /usr/share/X11/xorg.conf.d/20-intel.conf"

3. Finally, run the following command to restart the X server:

    sudo service lightdm restart

And that's it! You now have a fully functional Linux desktop running on your Chromebook. You can use this Linux desktop to run Linux-based software or explore the world of Linux.

In conclusion, running a full Linux desktop on a Chromebook is a simple and straightforward process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can transform your Chromebook into a powerful Linux machine and expand its capabilities.