Crouton, short for Chromium OS Universal Chroot Environment, is a powerful tool that allows you to run a full Linux distribution alongside Chrome OS on your Chromebook. This means you can enjoy the simplicity and security of Chrome OS while also having access to a vast library of Linux applications, development tools, and environments. This article will walk you through everything you need to know to get started with Crouton and harness its full potential.
Understanding Crouton and Its Benefits
Crouton leverages the concept of a chroot, which is essentially a isolated environment that allows you to run a separate operating system within your existing one. In this case, it allows you to run Linux within Chrome OS without dual-booting or virtualization.
The key advantage of using Crouton is that the Linux distribution runs natively on your Chromebook’s hardware, resulting in excellent performance. You can switch seamlessly between Chrome OS and your Linux environment using keyboard shortcuts, making it a convenient and efficient way to access Linux applications.
Crouton offers flexibility. You can choose from various Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, Debian, Kali Linux, and more. Each distribution offers a unique set of features and applications, allowing you to tailor your Linux environment to your specific needs.
Furthermore, Crouton is relatively easy to install and configure, making it accessible to users of all technical levels. It’s a great way to expand the functionality of your Chromebook and unlock a world of possibilities.
Preparing Your Chromebook for Crouton
Before you begin the Crouton installation process, there are a few essential steps to take to prepare your Chromebook. These steps will ensure a smooth and successful installation.
Enabling Developer Mode
The first step is to enable Developer Mode on your Chromebook. This mode allows you to install and run unsigned code, including Crouton. Be aware that enabling Developer Mode will wipe your Chromebook’s local data, so back up any important files before proceeding.
To enable Developer Mode, follow these steps:
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Power off your Chromebook completely.
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Press and hold the Esc key, the Refresh key (F3), and the Power button simultaneously. This will boot your Chromebook into Recovery Mode.
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At the Recovery Mode screen, press Ctrl + D. This will prompt you to turn on Developer Mode.
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Press Enter to confirm.
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Your Chromebook will now transition to Developer Mode. This process may take some time, and your Chromebook may reboot several times. Be patient and do not interrupt the process.
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Each time you boot your Chromebook in Developer Mode, you will see a warning screen. You can bypass this screen by pressing Ctrl + D or waiting a few seconds.
Enabling Developer Mode reduces the security of your Chromebook, as it allows you to install software from untrusted sources. Only enable Developer Mode if you understand the risks involved and are comfortable with the potential security implications.
Downloading Crouton
Once Developer Mode is enabled, you need to download the Crouton script. The script is available from the official Crouton GitHub repository.
You can download Crouton directly from the command line using wget or curl. Open the Chrome OS terminal by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T, then type shell and press Enter.
Use the following command to download Crouton:
sudo wget https://goo.gl/fd3Cr
Alternatively, you can use curl:
sudo curl -L -O https://goo.gl/fd3Cr
After downloading the Crouton script, you need to make it executable. Use the following command:
sudo chmod +x crouton
Now you are ready to proceed with the Crouton installation process.
Installing a Linux Distribution with Crouton
With Developer Mode enabled and the Crouton script downloaded, you can now install your desired Linux distribution. Crouton supports various distributions, each with its own set of features and package managers.
Choosing a Distribution and Environment
The first step is to decide which Linux distribution you want to install. Ubuntu is a popular choice for beginners due to its large community and extensive documentation. Debian is another solid option known for its stability.
Once you have chosen a distribution, you need to select a desktop environment. The desktop environment provides the graphical user interface for your Linux environment. Popular options include Xfce, KDE, and GNOME. Xfce is a lightweight desktop environment that is ideal for Chromebooks with limited resources. KDE is a more feature-rich desktop environment that offers a highly customizable experience. GNOME is a modern and user-friendly desktop environment.
Installing Ubuntu with Xfce
To install Ubuntu with the Xfce desktop environment, use the following command in the Chrome OS terminal:
sudo ./crouton -t xfce
This command will download and install the necessary files. The installation process may take some time, depending on your internet connection and the speed of your Chromebook.
You can specify a release when you use the command. Example: Ubuntu Bionic sudo ./crouton -r bionic -t xfce.
You can also encrypt the chroot. It will prompt for a password: sudo ./crouton -e -t xfce
Installing Other Distributions and Environments
To install a different distribution or desktop environment, simply replace xfce in the command above with the desired distribution and environment. For example, to install Debian with the KDE desktop environment, you would use the following command:
sudo ./crouton -t kde -r stretch
Here, stretch represents the codename for a specific Debian release. You will need to consult the Crouton documentation or the Linux distribution’s website to determine the correct codename for the release you want to install.
Available targets can be listed with: sh crouton -t help
Starting Your Linux Environment
Once the installation is complete, you can start your Linux environment using the following command:
sudo startxfce4
This command will launch the Xfce desktop environment in a new window. You can then switch between Chrome OS and your Linux environment using the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Alt + Shift + Back (or Forward).
If you chose a different desktop environment, replace startxfce4 with the appropriate command for that environment. For example, to start the KDE desktop environment, you would use the command sudo startkde.
Essential Crouton Commands and Usage
Once your Linux environment is up and running, it’s essential to understand some key Crouton commands to manage your installation effectively.
Updating Your Crouton Installation
To keep your Crouton installation up-to-date with the latest security patches and software updates, use the following command:
sudo enter-chroot -n xenial apt-get update && sudo enter-chroot -n xenial apt-get dist-upgrade
Replace xenial with the name you gave your chroot when you installed it.
This command will first update the package lists and then upgrade the installed packages to the latest versions. It’s recommended to run this command regularly to ensure your Linux environment is secure and stable.
Entering and Exiting Your Chroot
The enter-chroot command allows you to enter your Crouton chroot environment. To enter your chroot, use the following command:
sudo enter-chroot
This command will open a new terminal window within your Linux environment. You can then run Linux commands and applications as if you were running a standalone Linux system.
To exit your chroot and return to the Chrome OS terminal, simply type exit and press Enter.
Uninstalling Crouton
If you no longer need your Crouton installation, you can uninstall it using the following command:
sudo delete-chroot
This command will remove the specified chroot and all its associated files.
Before uninstalling Crouton, back up any important data from your Linux environment that you want to keep.
Backing Up and Restoring Your Chroot
It is always a good idea to have a backup of your chroot.
Backing up: sudo edit-chroot -b xenial
Restoring: sudo edit-chroot -r xenial
Remember to replace xenial with the name you gave to your chroot.
Tips and Tricks for Optimizing Your Crouton Experience
To maximize your Crouton experience, here are a few tips and tricks to consider:
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Use a Lightweight Desktop Environment: If your Chromebook has limited resources, choose a lightweight desktop environment like Xfce to ensure smooth performance.
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Optimize Your System: After installing your Linux environment, consider optimizing it for performance. This may involve disabling unnecessary services, tweaking system settings, and using lightweight applications.
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Install Chrome Browser: You can install the Chrome browser within your Linux environment. This allows you to run Chrome and other web applications within your Linux environment, providing a more seamless experience.
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Explore Different Distributions: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different Linux distributions and desktop environments to find the combination that best suits your needs.
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Use Crouton Integration: Crouton Integration is a Chrome extension that allows you to seamlessly share files and clipboard data between Chrome OS and your Linux environment. This extension can greatly enhance your productivity and workflow.
Troubleshooting Common Crouton Issues
While Crouton is generally easy to install and use, you may encounter some issues along the way. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
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“crouton: command not found” Error: This error typically occurs when you have not made the Crouton script executable. To fix this, use the command
sudo chmod +x crouton. -
“Failed to download” Error: This error can occur if there are network connectivity issues or if the Crouton servers are temporarily unavailable. Check your internet connection and try again later.
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“Chroot not found” Error: This error typically occurs when you are trying to enter or delete a chroot that does not exist. Verify that the chroot name you are using is correct.
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Display Issues: If you experience display issues, such as a black screen or distorted graphics, try restarting your Chromebook or updating your graphics drivers.
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Sound Issues: If you have sound issues, try installing the
pulseaudiopackage within your Linux environment.
Extending Crouton’s Functionality
Crouton’s functionality can be extended with a few extra steps.
Using a Shared Directory
To avoid needing to copy files back and forth, create a shared directory. This allows both ChromeOS and your Crouton installation to access the same files.
sudo mkdir /usr/local/chroots/xenial/home/username/shared
Where xenial is replaced by the name of your installation, and username with your user name. Next, bind this to the ChromeOS directory.
sudo mount --bind /home/chronos/user/Downloads /usr/local/chroots/xenial/home/username/shared
This example binds the Downloads directory from ChromeOS. To persist this after reboots, you must edit the /etc/crouton/chroots/xenial file within your chroot. Add the mount command before startcli.
GUI Apps in ChromeOS
It is possible to run GUI applications that are inside the Crouton environment directly in ChromeOS. This feature relies on xiwi. Xiwi runs the application in its own ChromeOS window.
To install xiwi: sudo ./crouton -t xiwi,keyboard,extension -u -n xenial
After this has completed, you will need the Crouton integration extension from the Chrome Web Store. This extension sets up file sharing and makes copy/paste operations work as expected.
Once installed, it is easy to run an application: sudo enter-chroot startxiwi. Then open a terminal and start the app.
Conclusion
Crouton is a valuable tool for Chromebook users who want to extend the functionality of their devices. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can install and configure Crouton to run your desired Linux distribution alongside Chrome OS. This will allow you to access a vast library of Linux applications, development tools, and environments, all while enjoying the simplicity and security of Chrome OS. Remember to explore different distributions, optimize your system, and utilize the available tools to unlock the full potential of Crouton on your Chromebook. Remember to back up your data, understand the security implications of developer mode, and keep your system updated for optimal performance and security.
What is Crouton and why would I want to use it on my Chromebook?
Crouton, which stands for Chromium OS Universal Chroot Environment, is a set of scripts that allow you to run a full Linux operating system alongside Chrome OS on your Chromebook. This means you can switch seamlessly between Chrome OS and Linux without needing to reboot your device. Crouton achieves this by creating a chroot environment, essentially a self-contained virtualized Linux installation.
The primary advantage of using Crouton is that it expands the functionality of your Chromebook significantly. You gain access to a vast library of Linux software, including programming tools, advanced image editors, and other applications not available within the Chrome OS environment. This allows you to use your Chromebook for more demanding tasks and extend its lifespan beyond its initial intended use case.
What are the system requirements for installing Crouton on a Chromebook?
To install Crouton, you’ll need a Chromebook that supports developer mode. This mode allows you to bypass some of the security restrictions of Chrome OS and run unsigned code, which is necessary for Crouton to function correctly. Almost all Chromebooks can be put into developer mode, but the process varies slightly depending on the manufacturer and model.
In terms of hardware requirements, Crouton doesn’t demand a lot of resources. However, the performance of your Linux environment will depend on the Chromebook’s processor, RAM, and storage. A Chromebook with at least 4GB of RAM and a reasonably powerful processor will provide a more responsive and enjoyable Linux experience. Ensure you also have enough free storage space for the Linux distribution and applications you plan to install.
How do I install Crouton on my Chromebook?
The installation process involves enabling developer mode on your Chromebook, downloading the Crouton script, and running it from the Chrome OS shell. To enable developer mode, you’ll typically need to hold down specific keys while booting up your Chromebook. Be aware that enabling developer mode will wipe all local data on your device, so back up any important files first.
Once in developer mode, open the Chrome OS shell (crosh) by pressing Ctrl+Alt+T, then type “shell” and press Enter. Download the Crouton script using the command `wget https://goo.gl/fd3Cr`. Then, run the script with the command `sudo sh ~/Downloads/crouton -t xfce` (replace xfce with your desired desktop environment). The installation process can take some time, so be patient. Once finished, you can start your Linux environment with the command `sudo startxfce4`.
What Linux distributions can I install using Crouton?
Crouton supports several popular Linux distributions, allowing you to choose one that best suits your needs and preferences. The most commonly used distributions with Crouton are Ubuntu, Debian, and Kali Linux. Each distribution offers different software packages and a distinct user experience.
When installing Crouton, you can specify the distribution and desktop environment you want to use. For example, you could install Ubuntu with the Xfce desktop environment, which is lightweight and efficient, making it suitable for Chromebooks with limited resources. Other popular desktop environments include KDE, GNOME, and LXDE. You can even install multiple Linux distributions and desktop environments side-by-side using Crouton.
How do I switch between Chrome OS and my Linux environment created with Crouton?
Switching between Chrome OS and your Linux environment is very simple and fast with Crouton. The default method involves using keyboard shortcuts. Pressing Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Back (or Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Forward) will typically switch you between the Chrome OS desktop and your first Linux environment instance.
If you have multiple Linux instances running, you can cycle through them using Ctrl+Alt+Shift and the corresponding function key (F1, F2, F3, etc.). Alternatively, you can use the `enter-chroot` command in the Chrome OS shell to enter a specific Linux environment if you prefer a command-line approach. This seamless switching allows you to leverage the strengths of both operating systems without constantly rebooting.
How do I update my Linux environment installed through Crouton?
Keeping your Linux environment up-to-date is crucial for security and stability. To update your Linux distribution installed through Crouton, you’ll need to open a terminal within your Linux environment. This can be done by opening the terminal application within your chosen desktop environment, such as Xfce, KDE, or GNOME.
Once the terminal is open, you can use the standard package management commands for your distribution. For Ubuntu or Debian, you would use the commands `sudo apt update` to refresh the package list and then `sudo apt upgrade` to install the available updates. Regularly updating your system ensures that you have the latest security patches and bug fixes.
How do I uninstall Crouton and remove the Linux environment from my Chromebook?
To uninstall Crouton and remove the associated Linux environment, you first need to close any running Linux instances. Make sure you’re back in Chrome OS. Then, open the Chrome OS shell (crosh) by pressing Ctrl+Alt+T and type “shell” followed by Enter.
Next, run the command `sudo delete-chroot