How to Install Linux on a Samsung Chromebook Plus: A Comprehensive Guide

Installing Linux on a Samsung Chromebook Plus offers a versatile computing experience, allowing you to run both the Chrome OS and a full Linux environment. This guide provides you with detailed steps to achieve this using two popular methods: Crouton and GalliumOS.

Prerequisites

A nearly stock Samsung Chromebook Plus, updated to the latest version of Chrome OS. A USB drive for backup (optional but recommended). Access to the internet for downloading and installation. A stable power outlet as the installation process can take some time.

Method 1: Using Crouton

Step 1: Enable Developer Mode

Turn off your Chromebook. Press and hold Esc Refresh and then press the Power button to enter the recovery screen. Release the keys and press Ctrl D to enable Developer Mode. Ensure you back up any important data before proceeding, as this will wipe your device.

Step 2: Download Crouton

Once in Developer Mode, open Chrome and navigate to the Crouton GitHub repository. Alternatively, use the terminal to download Crouton by pressing Ctrl Alt T to open the Crosh terminal and typing: bash
sudo sh -c 'echo beatbug | sudo auth -op
sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get install ubuntu-clean-xfce'

Step 3: Install Linux

In the terminal, run the following command to install your preferred Linux distribution e.g., Ubuntu: bash
sudo sh ~/Downloads/crouton -t xfce

Replace xfce with other desktop environments like gnome or kde depending on your preference.

Step 4: Follow the Prompts

The installation will take some time. Follow any prompts that appear to complete the process.

Step 5: Start Linux

To start your Linux environment, use the following command in the terminal:

bash
sudo startxfce4

Replace xfce4 with your chosen desktop environment if you selected a different one.

Step 6: Switching Between Chrome OS and Linux

To switch back to Chrome OS, use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl Alt Shift Back (the key above the TAB key).

To return to your Linux session, use Ctrl Alt Shift Forward.

Method 2: Using GalliumOS

If you prefer a more traditional Linux installation and are comfortable with more advanced steps, you can install GalliumOS, a lightweight Linux distribution optimized for Chromebooks. This method replaces Chrome OS.

Step 1: Enable Developer Mode

Same as above.

Step 2: Create a USB Installer

Download the GalliumOS ISO from the GalliumOS website. Use a tool like Rufus (Windows), Etcher (Mac/Linux) to create a bootable USB drive with the GalliumOS ISO.

Step 3: Boot from USB

Insert the USB drive and reboot the Chromebook. Press Ctrl L at the boot screen to enter Legacy Boot Mode. Select the USB drive to boot into the GalliumOS installer.

Step 4: Install GalliumOS

Follow the on-screen instructions to install GalliumOS. You can choose to install it alongside Chrome OS or replace it entirely.

Step 5: Post-Installation

After installation, reboot the Chromebook, remove the USB drive, and you should boot into GalliumOS.

Conclusion

Both methods have their pros and cons. Crouton allows you to run Linux alongside Chrome OS, keeping both environments available, while GalliumOS provides a full Linux experience at the cost of Chrome OS. Choose the method that best fits your needs!