can we install ubuntu on chromebook

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Yes, you can install Ubuntu on a Chromebook. Depending on your model, you can run them side-by-side using a tool called Crouton (without deleting Chrome OS), or completely wipe the device to install Ubuntu as the primary operating system. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Method 1: Running Ubuntu side-by-side (Crouton)

This is the most popular method because you can keep Chrome OS and instantly switch between the two with a keyboard shortcut. [1, 2]

1. Enable Developer Mode: Turn off your Chromebook. Press and hold the Esc + Refresh keys, then tap the Power button. At the recovery screen, press Ctrl + D, then press Enter to turn OS Verification off.
   • Note: This will erase all local files on your Chromebook. [1, 2]
2. Download Crouton: Once your Chromebook reboots, download the latest Crouton Installer script from GitHub. [1]
3. Install Ubuntu: Press Ctrl + Alt + T to open the Chrome OS terminal, type shell and hit Enter, then execute the installation script using the command: sudo sh ~/Downloads/crouton -t xfce. [1, 2]
4. Launch Ubuntu: Once the installation finishes, you can enter the Ubuntu environment at any time by opening the shell and typing sudo startxfce4. Switch back to Chrome OS by pressing Ctrl + Alt + Shift + Back. [1]

Method 2: Replacing Chrome OS completely

If you want a dedicated Linux laptop and your Chromebook allows it (many Intel-based models do), you can replace Chrome OS. [1, 2]

1. Enable Developer Mode (same as above).
2. Enable USB booting and flash custom firmware using the MrChromebox Firmware Utility Script.
3. Download the Ubuntu Desktop ISO and burn it to a USB drive using a tool like Rufus.
4. Boot your Chromebook from the USB drive to install Ubuntu like you would on any standard PC. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

Things to consider before starting

• Hardware Limitations: Standard Ubuntu with the GNOME interface can be heavy on a low-end Chromebook. Lighter desktop environments like Xubuntu (using XFCE) are highly recommended. [1, 2, 3]
• Built-in Alternative: If you just need a Linux terminal, modern Chromebooks have an official Linux Development Environment (Crostini) built directly into Chrome OS. You can turn this on in Settings > Advanced > Developers. [1, 2, 3]