Google ChromeOS
With a limited lifespan you’ll eventually want to replace the Google-maintained OS for something with more Tux to it.
Let’s be absolutely clear: we’re going to wipe everything off your Chromebook. This might brick it in the process, because we’re messing around with firmware. You do everything here at your own risk, with that clear warning, onwards!
We have a love-hate relationship with ChromeOS. It’s Google (boo!), but it’s Linux based and plugs into Linux and Android apps so hurrah! If you want an affordable device with great battery life and a Linux heritage then they’re hard to ignore. Google also hasn’t tried to lock them down yet, but its use of CoreBoot in the device firmware usually complicates the initial install step.
There are various steps you can take to get Linux on your Chromebook: use the official Linux mode, run a distro via the chroot Crouton tool or do a full install. The first option – if your device supports it – is easiest, but doesn’t offer hardware acceleration or access to the GPU (apparently this is coming). Similar limitations apply to the second option, but at least that provides a full Linux OS.
It’s good sense to create a recovery drive before doing anything here.
>> PLAYING IT SAFE
If you’re messing around with the base operating system you need to take precautions. Google has created a pretty simple emergency recovery system that just needs you to install a Chrome Extension and then enable it to write a back-up recovery OS to a spare 8GB (or larger) USB drive. Be aware this can take an hour, so do it when you can leave your device running and plugged in.
Head to the Google Web Store and get the Recovery Utility here (https://bit.ly/lxf271recover). Follow the instructions, click the model number for your device when this is displayed (as above) and then let it download, create and test the image.
With that safely in the bank you can go and do unspeakable things to your Chromebook, safe in the knowledge that you have a stable OS backup warming up on the sidelines.
If you need to instigate a recovery, disconnect everything and power down your Chromebook. Press and hold the Esc and Refresh keys, then power on the Chromebook and release the power button. When a message appears release the other keys. At this point you can use your recovery USB and follow the on-screen instructions.