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The short answer: To install Linux apps on a Chromebook, you need to enable the Linux development environment (Crostini) in your Chrome OS settings, then use a terminal command like sudo apt install [package-name] to install apps from the Debian repository.
Chromebooks are known for their simplicity and web-centric approach, but sometimes you need a desktop app that isn’t available as a web app or Android app. Linux apps bring a whole new dimension to your Chromebook, allowing you to run powerful software like GIMP, LibreOffice, or even development tools like VS Code. It’s a game changer for students, developers, and professionals who need more than what the browser offers.
Not every Chromebook supports Linux apps. The feature is available on most Chromebooks released after 2019, but you should verify by going to Settings > About Chrome OS and checking if “Linux” appears in the settings menu. If you don’t see it, your device may not support it. Also, ensure you have at least 4 GB of RAM and 10 GB of free storage for a smooth experience. Linux uses a container, so it will take up some space, but you can manage it.
Here’s how to get Linux up and running on your Chromebook in a few simple steps:
sudo apt update and press Enter. This refreshes the list of available packages. Then run sudo apt upgrade to update existing software.sudo apt install gimp and press Enter. Type Y when prompted to confirm. Wait for the download and installation to finish.gimp).That’s it! You’ve successfully installed a Linux app. You can repeat step 5 with other package names.
Here are some popular apps and their install commands. You can install multiple apps at once by listing them separated by spaces, like sudo apt install gimp libreoffice.
| App | Command |
|---|---|
| LibreOffice (office suite) | sudo apt install libreoffice |
| GIMP (image editor) | sudo apt install gimp |
| VS Code (code editor) | sudo apt install code (or download .deb from website) |
| Steam (gaming) | sudo apt install steam (may require additional dependencies) |
| VLC (media player) | sudo apt install vlc |
| Audacity (audio editor) | sudo apt install audacity |
If an app isn’t in the default repository, you can download a .deb file from the official website and install it by navigating to the file in the terminal and using sudo dpkg -i filename.deb. For example, to install Google Chrome, download the .deb from Google’s site, then run sudo dpkg -i google-chrome-stable_current_amd64.deb in the directory where you saved it.
Linux apps take up space, so it’s good to keep tabs on them. To see how much space is used, open the Files app and look under “Linux files”. You can also uninstall apps via the terminal: sudo apt remove [package-name] or sudo apt purge [package-name] to remove config files as well. To free up space, you can clean up with sudo apt autoremove to remove unused dependencies.
You can also adjust the storage allocated to Linux by going to Settings > Developers > Linux > Disk size and adjusting the slider. Be careful not to reduce it below the current usage.
If you run into problems, here are some quick fixes:
1. Linux won’t enable: Make sure your Chromebook is updated. If it still fails, try powerwashing (factory reset) but back up your data first. Also, check if your device is on the supported list.
2. Apps not installing due to “Package not found”: Ensure you’ve run sudo apt update first. If the package is still not found, it might not be in the Debian repository. You may need to add a repository or download the .deb manually.
3. App doesn’t start or runs slowly: Some apps may require additional settings. For example, enable GPU acceleration in Linux settings if available. Also, closing other apps can free up memory. If an app crashes, try launching it from the terminal to see error messages.
4. Can’t access files: Linux apps can access files in the “Linux files” folder. To access your regular files (like Downloads), you need to share them: right-click the folder in Files, select “Share with Linux”. Then you’ll find it under /mnt/chromeos/ in the Linux file system.
If you’re still having issues, check out the Chromebook Help community or Chrome OS documentation.
Q: Will installing Linux apps void my warranty or make my Chromebook less secure?
A: No, enabling Linux doesn’t void your warranty. It runs in a secure container, so it’s isolated from the rest of the system. Your Chromebook remains protected with its built-in security features.
Q: Can I install any Linux app?
A: Most apps that support Debian/Ubuntu x86_64 architecture will work. However, some apps require proprietary drivers or have other dependencies that may not be available. Also, 32-bit apps might not work. Check the app’s system requirements.
Q: How do I uninstall Linux entirely?
A: Go to Settings > Developers > Linux > Remove Linux development environment. This will delete the container and all its files. Be aware that this also deletes your Linux files, so back up anything important.
For more guidance on choosing a Chromebook that supports Linux well, you might want to read our Chromebooks 2026: Expert Picks & Comparison Guide.
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