How Does Crosh Work?

Using Crosh is relatively simple, but you should have the relevant knowledge on how to use it. Like any other terminal, Crosh responds to commands entered by the user. These commands are associated with functions that the system will perform once the command has been input by the user.

Therefore, one must have a proper hold over the commands and what functions they perform. And that is exactly what this guide is here for; to provide you with the most used and helpful commands, along with functions that they will perform.

How To Launch Crosh

To start up Crosh, simply press Ctrl+Alt+T on your Chromebook or ChromeOS device. Crosh will launch on a Google Chrome tab.

Crosh Commands and Their Functions

Let’s take a look at the different Crosh commands that can help you get the most out of your device. Each command in the following table has a description next to it so you can find one you like and try it right away!

Ready to Crosh Safely?

These commands are basic and serve as a preliminary before setting foot inside Crosh. However, one is better safe than sorry, hence, take care to make backups before tinkering around in Crosh and always consult the Internet before experimenting a command that you are unable to make sense of. Now, enjoy tweaking your Chromebook and troubleshooting through Crosh.

The post 20 Essential Crosh Commands Every ChromeOS User Should Know appeared first on Appuals.com.

If you regularly use multiple applications in parallel, Chromebook’s split-screen feature can be of great assistance. It enables you to do your work in a more effective manner and produces superior outcomes with fewer interruptions.

There are several different ways to use this function effectively on Chromebook. We’ll go through each of them below. 

1. Use the ‘Show Windows’ key

The ‘Show Windows’ key is located at the F5 position and resembles a rectangle with two horizontal lines on the right. You can use this key to show all the currently active windows and arrange them according to your needs.

Here’s how to split your Chromebook screen by using the ‘Show Windows‘ key:

1. Open any applications that you want to use in your split-screen.
2. Hold the button (Show Windows).

   

3. Drop one of the apps where it says “Drag here to use split-screen”.

   

2. Drag and drop via mouse

The easiest way to split the screen on a Chromebook is to drag and drop the windows to the right or left side of the screen, without using any shortcut keys. This might prove a bit tricky if you’re using a touchpad, so our recommendation is to use this method if you use a mouse. 

Here’s how to achieve split screen by dragging and dropping:

1. Open any applications that you want to use during split-screen.
2. Click and hold the menu bar.
3. Move the window to the left or right side of the screen by dragging it.

   

4. As soon as you release the mouse button, the window should snap to the desired side of the display.

3. Use Keyboard Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts are the quickest way to split the screen if you are comfortable with macros. The process is as simple as holding down the “Alt” key and then choosing between the “[“ or “]” key.

If you press Alt + left bracket key at the same time, the window will shift to the left, while pressing Alt + right bracket key, the window will shift to the right.

Note: Clicking on either of these buttons will open a new window or modify the size of the currently active one.

4. Use the Maximize / Restore Down Button

Another way to use the split-screen feature on your Chromebook is to use the Maximize / Restore Down Button.

The main function of this button is to return the window to its default state (either minimize or maximize it), but you can also use it to achieve a split-screen scenario. 

Here are the steps that you need to follow:

1. Start by opening any two applications that you want to use during split-screen.
2. Click and hold the Maximize/Restore button of one of the applications.
    

   

   Note: The ‘Restore Down’ button is located in the upper right corner of the screen between the close and minimize buttons.

3. After you press the button, you’ll notice two arrows on the left and right sides of it. While keeping the button pressed, move your cursor to the left or right section of the screen to have the app snap into place. 

   

4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 with the second application to achieve a split screen. 

Reasons why split-screen might not work on your Chromebook

If none of the methods above work for you keep in mind that not all ChromeOS versions feature the split-screen functionality.

If you are using an older device model that’s not updated to the latest ChromeOS version, this feature is most likely unavailable.

To find out whether or not the split-screen feature is available on your Chromebook go to Settings > Device > Display & Sound > Display and search for the “split-screen” option.

However, even if your Chromebook supports the split-screen option, it may occasionally experience some difficulties with this feature.

Here are a few reasons why you might be unable to achieve a split screen on your Chromebook:

• Your Chromebook might be in tablet mode. 
• The split-screen shortcut (Ctrl+Alt) is disabled.  
• You mistakenly pressed the maximize button on the window you wish to use for your split-screen. 

The post Split Screen on a Chromebook: A Step-by-Step Quick Guide appeared first on Appuals.com.

Chromebooks are often considered less expensive, faster, and safer than laptops, for example, and can be a great, portable preference for day-to-day work and general office use. Meanwhile, modern laptops have more processing power and can run various business and entertainment applications.

In this article, we’ll compare the Chromebook and the laptop, highlighting key differences and offering advice from experts to help you make an informed choice.

What is Chromebook?

The Chromebook is a relatively new type of laptop that runs on the Linux-based Chrome OS operating system created by Google, and they were originally meant for online-only use. Since Chrome was created as an online-only device that does most of its work in the cloud, it fulfills its primary functions and is essentially mobile. With new updates, it can now be used offline.

It’s just a standard laptop with fewer extras. They’re quite light, much like Ultrabooks, and don’t need a powerful computer or a lot of memory. They rely heavily on the internet and Google’s apps and services instead; web apps help fill the gap left by offline ones. A Chromebook, in its simplest definition, is a cheap laptop that uses Google’s Chrome OS instead of Microsoft Windows or Mac OS.

What is Laptop?

A laptop is a smaller, more portable personal computer. It can be as powerful as a full-size desktop computer while being far more portable. It’s a computer with a built-in keyboard, touchpad/trackpad, sometimes a trackball (technically a mouse) and runs on a battery. In contrast to Chromebooks, laptops generally run Windows or MacOS, and can be configured to run Linux.

It can perform all the same tasks as a regular computer and utilize all the same programs. However, laptops of the same stature are more expensive than their desktop counterparts, generally. They are made to be energy efficient, and they can be powered by standard electrical outlets or rechargeable batteries (Li-ion, Ni-MH, etc.).

Differences between a Chromebook and a Laptop

Here are some basic and important differences between these two devices explained in detail:

Operating System

If you’re familiar with Chrome, you’ll feel right at home with Chrome OS, the operating system that powers Chromebooks. In earlier Chromebook models, you had to be online to use the web apps, but this is no longer the case.

Since 2018, Chrome OS allows Android apps, Linux programs, and offline document editing, expanding the capabilities of Chromebooks even when they don’t have access to the internet. Since Chrome OS is a minimal operating system, it boots up quickly, so you can immediately begin using the internet and working on your next project.

On the other hand, laptops use Windows or Mac OS. They are used for every kind of work and support thousands of online and offline programs and apps. The latest Windows laptops and MacBooks are far more powerful than any Chromebook, and they’re generally used for resource-intensive tasks that a simple Chromebook cannot do.

Pricing

For the same reason that they don’t have as many bulky, expensive parts, Chromebooks can be had for much less money (in the hundreds instead of the thousands) and can be carried around more easily. Since most K-12 and university students don’t require scorching technical specs to do most of their work, this has turned them into a popular choice for schools that provide laptops to students.

The exception to this is students majoring in design, film, or engineering who need intensive design, video editing, or CAD software. They can’t rely on Chromebooks, so laptops are their first choice. Laptops are more expensive than Chromebooks, and the reason is obvious (bigger storage devices, beefier processors, more RAM, etc.).

Most Chromebooks cost between $300 and $600, with decent options averaging around the $400 mark. Cheaper and more expensive Chromebooks do exist, but neither of those two extremes make sense. Traditional laptops are costlier, you should expect to pay at least $700 to get a good Windows laptop, and about $900 for a new MacBook Air. Though, both of those options would blow any Chromebook out the water.

Software Availability

The availability of software is another significant distinction between Chromebooks and conventional laptops. Each device has a vastly varied set of apps due to its operating system. Chromebooks can’t compete with Windows and macOS because of the extensive software ecosystems they support.

Make sure that the program you want (Photoshop, AutoCAD, Microsoft Office, etc.) is compatible with the operating system you intend to use before you buy it. If you don’t research, you can be let down by the device’s incompatibility with your preferred apps.

Portability

Chromebooks can be significantly more portable than traditional laptops due to their lightweight and small form factor. Because of this, they are a great option for people who routinely commute long distances or go on business trips away from home.

However, ultra-thin notebooks such as MacBook Air and the Dell XPS 13 make even the smallest Chromebook seem cumbersome, given their under-the-hood power. A laptop computer is the most convenient choice if you frequently travel from place to place and you require to run heavy programs.

Performance

It’s important to put the performance in context. The specifications, workload, and other factors contribute to how well a system functions. Chromebooks always outperform Windows laptops and Macbooks when all three have identical specifications (at least for most tasks). Chrome OS is a very lightweight OS that doesn’t require a lot of resources to function normally.

Actual performance, though, is something you won’t find in a Chromebook. Windows and macOS notebooks can be fully configured with all the required hardware to run any task you can throw at them. A standard laptop can deliver a lot more raw power if you’re ready to shell out more money. Furthermore, they work with sophisticated programs.

Storage space

Chromebooks typically feature between 16 to 64GB of local storage capacity, less than most laptops. This is because Chromebooks rely less on local storage and more on cloud storage (specifically, Google Drive) than other laptops. ChromeOS doesn’t require a lot of space because most apps are web-based and not installed locally on the laptop.

Files such as text documents, images, and audio recordings are not kept locally but rather uploaded to the cloud storage service Google Drive. If your Chromebook gets lost or stolen, your data will still be protected in the cloud.

Alternatively, most laptops these days come with at least 256 GB of SSD capacity, and some even have as much as one terabyte as their starting option. There is the option to save files locally on the hard drive or to save them online in a cloud storage service like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive, so you have the flexibility to choose, unlike on a Chromebook where you will most likely be limited to only the cloud.

Security

Chromebooks excel in security because they come with in-built antivirus software, and the Chrome operating system is impervious to malware. Google has implemented many safeguards in ChromeOS, such as sandboxing, auto-updates, validated boot, and encryption keys. Thanks to these features, Chromebooks are among the most secure notebooks available.

Traditional laptops, particularly Windows laptops, are easy targets for hackers due to their greater vulnerability to malware and viruses. Therefore, keeping a Windows laptop free of malware and viruses requires periodically updating the antivirus software. MacBooks are generally considered much safer than Windows laptops, and Apple has had a history of limiting their software in order to enhance security, but it’s still not bulletproof.

Battery Life and Portability

Depending on their specifications, Chromebooks and laptops can have amazing battery life. The most advanced examples in either group can last for at least eight hours on a single charge, often much longer. Indeed, there remain distinctions. In terms of value, Chromebooks typically outperform other laptops regarding battery life.

Since ChromeOS requires fewer resources than Windows, a Chromebook can get by with slower technology that uses less energy. To maintain a respectable level of performance, Windows laptops need to use faster, more power-hungry hardware and due to the sheer pool of available hardware, optimization between the software and hardware isn’t the best.

With thousands of low-cost laptops and Chromebooks available, it isn’t easy to draw clear distinctions between them. In general, the battery life of inexpensive Chromebooks is between five and eight hours. Standard Windows laptops have a battery life of about 3–6 hours.

However, laptops catch up when looking at more expensive models, with the largest batteries offering 80 to 99 watt-hours of power. MacBooks, especially the new Apple silicon models, are often touted as the benchmark for battery life, since they’re performant laptops with excellent power efficiency. New-gen MacBooks easily last a day under moderate workload.

Compared to conventional laptops, Chromebooks are noticeably lighter and slimmer, making them more convenient to carry around. Again, putting less-intensive hardware leads to smaller sizes overall. That’s not to say Windows laptops or even MacBooks are always big and bulky, but in the larger scheme of things, you will always find a Chromebook to be more portable.

Another reason for that is screen sizes, which are also generally smaller on Chromebooks, since a lot of them are essentially glorified tablets. While the average MacBook and Windows laptop has a 13″ screen, the average Chromebook clocks in at around 11 inches, but there are models that go up to 15″ as well. 

The pros and cons of laptops

If you’re still on the fence after hearing about the main advantages and disadvantages of Chromebooks compared to laptops, then perhaps a summary of the pros and cons of laptops would assist.

Pros

• The market offers a plethora of choices
• Often the best value is found among laptops
• Reliable, popular operating systems
• High-performance machines with desktop-class hardware
• Typically, better I/O than Chromebooks
• Equally efficient while working offline
• Usually better-built with nicer screens

Cons

• OS can be a bit hard to grasp for new users
• Usually cost more than Chromebooks
• Potentially overheat and degrade battery quicker due to excessive power
• Battery life often not as good 

Pros and cons of Chromebooks

On the other hand, if the concept of Chromebook still perplex you, here are the reasons why a lot of people get one (and why a lot don’t):

Pros

• Generally more affordable
• Enough for light business/school use
• Simple and easy-to-understand OS
• Enhanced safety features simplify its deployment across an organization
• Safer than Windows, as Chrome OS often encounters fewer security flaws
• Usually has a shorter time to start up
• Native Android app support
• Lighter and more portable

Cons

• Its lack of processing power compared to a laptop may make it impractical.
• Requires mobile or compatible versions of important applications rather than the original versions
• Not properly manageable when offline
• There aren’t as many viable choices.

Final Thoughts

Both Chromebooks and traditional laptops have their merits and shortcomings, so ultimately, the decision should be based on what will serve your needs best. There is a device for everyone, whether you need maximum mobility, the fastest processing speeds, or a certain set of programs. At the end of the day, a laptop or Chromebook is just a tool with you being the real point of difference, not the device itself.

The post What is the Difference Between A Chromebook and A Laptop [2023 Edition] appeared first on Appuals.com.

The most common reasons why your Chromebook won’t turn on are related to an external device, a brightness setting, a discharged or faulty battery, a software issue, or an overheating component. Most problems can be solved relatively quickly, easily, and inexpensively. However, some may call for more serious action (if you’re dealing with a hardware issue).

Here is a list of solutions to help you fix your Chromebook and get it to show signs of life again. 

1. Turn the brightness up.

One of the first things you need to do is check to see if the brightness of your display is all the way down.

Even though the small blue LED light lets you know your Chromebook is on, the screen will remain black if the lowest brightness setting is active. So before you go any further, turn it all the way up just to be sure.

To do this, press the brightness increase button on the top row until you achieve the maximum brightness.

2. Make sure that your Chromebook is charged

A dead battery is another thing to investigate when your Chromebook doesn’t turn on. Try turning it on again after plugging the device into an AC power source and letting it charge for at least 30 to 60 minutes.

Note: Double-check to see if the charger and outlet are working by plugging in a different device and using a different cable. 

Here is a quick guide that will help you read the battery status of your Chromebook while it’s charging: 

• No lights indicates that the power is off or the battery is completely discharged. 
• A solid blue light indicates that the Chromebook is on.
• If your Chromebook is charging, you should see both the solid blue and orange lights turned on at the same time. Note: This light might vary between Chromebook models. 

3. Perform a Hard Reset

If your Chromebook doesn’t turn on due to a software issue, doing a hard reset procedure should fix the issue in most cases. This method is confirmed to be effective in cases where corrupted cache data prevents the OS from booting. 

Important: Before you start the hard reset procedure, make sure your Chromebook is plugged in or charged.

To initiate a hard reset, hold down the Power button + Refresh button simultaneously for 10 seconds. Release the buttons after 10 seconds, then press and hold the Power button to turn the Chromebook on.

Alternatively, press the power button down and hold it for 30 seconds, then press the power button again to power it on.

4. Check for a Faulty Battery

As with any lithium-ion battery, the battery in your Chromebook will degrade over time to the point where it can’t sustain your system unless it’s plugged in. 

Note: The most common sign that your battery is all but dead is when your Chromebook only works when plugged in and turns off immediately after you remove it from a power source. 

Even if your battery is most likely at fault, you should not attempt to replace it by yourself if you’ve never done it before. Do it at your own risk because opening your Chromebook can void your warranty.

The best thing that you can do is ask a specialist for assistance or send it back to your manufacturer.

5. Place your Chromebook on a hard surface

If your Chromebook screen remains black while the bottom of the device is extremely warm, you might be dealing with an overheating component. Most likely, it’s a motherboard issue.

If this happens, wait for a couple of minutes until the device cools down before starting it again. If the same behaviour repeats, you need to take your Chromebook to a certified technician for repairs. 

Note: If your Chromebook turns off after using it in your lap for long periods, try placing it on a hard surface.

6. Remove all the USB devices that are plugged in

The Chromebook’s boot process may occasionally be hampered by external gear. To make sure that’s not the case, unplug any items plugged into the USB ports.

After ejecting all USB devices and removing any peripherals, restart your Chromebook and see if it boots up.

7. Contact the manufacturer of your device

If your Chromebook still doesn’t turn on after following all the methods above and is still covered by warranty, you might be able to acquire a replacement at no additional cost.

Check the conditions of your issued warranty and send your Chromebook in to be serviced before you do anything that will void it.

If your warranty has expired, check out the official Google Chromebook repair guide for some additional troubleshooting steps. 

Additionally, take your device to a local certified technician and wait for an official diagnosis. 

The post Chromebook Won’t Turn On? – Try These Fixes appeared first on Appuals.com.

Although iTunes is not natively supported on Chromebooks, there are ways to run iTunes on Chromebook. These methods are:

1. By Using Wine
2. By Using the iTunes website
3. By Exporting Music from iTunes to YouTube Music
4. By Using Virtual Machine Applications Like Parallels or VirtualBox 

Use Wine to Install iTunes on a Chromebook

ChromeOS is basically based on Linux OS and its Linux capabilities can be used to install Wine, which supports the installation of Windows Apps in Linux (like iTunes). This process is a multi-phase process (as discussed below) but before doing that, make sure to create an iTunes account (if already not present). 

Enable the Linux Feature on Chromebook and Update it

1. Launch the Chromebook Settings and in the left pane, head to the Linux Beta tab. Some users may find the Linux tab in the Advanced option.

   

2. Now, in the right pane, click on Turn on and follow the prompts on the screen to set up Linux on Chromebook.
3. Once the Linux setup is completed, the Linux Terminal is shown or you may launch it from the Applications menu, then execute the following in the Terminal:

   sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get upgrade -y

Install Wine on Chromebook and Enable Support for 32-Bit Applications

1. Now execute the following in the Linux Terminal to install Wine:

   sudo apt-get install Wine

   

2. Then wait till the operation completes and afterward, execute the following (one by one) in the Terminal to enable support for 32-bit applications:

   sudo dpkg --add-architecture i386
   
   sudo apt update
   
   sudo apt-get install wine32

   

Download the iTunes 32-bit Version

1. Launch a browser on Chromebook (like Chrome) and head to the iTunes page of the Apple website.

   

2. Now click on Download and save the file on the Chromebook. Make sure to rename the file as something like iTunes.exe.

   

3. Then move the file to Linux Files or share the location where the file is downloaded to Linux.

Install Wine 32-bit Version

1. Open the Linux Terminal and execute the following:

   WINEARCH=win32 WINEPREFIX=/home/username/.wine32/ wine iTunesSetup.exe

2. Now, in the iTunes installation window, click Next and then click on Install.

   

3. Then follow the prompts on the screen to install iTunes.
4. Now, open Applications on Chromebook and launch iTunes there to use it.

Create iTunes Shortcut

Some users might not like launching iTunes from Applications and may want to create a shortcut for it.

1. Launch the File Manager of the Chromebook and go to the Linux Files.
2. Now, click on the three vertical ellipses in the top right and select Show Hidden Files.

   

3. Then navigate to the following path:

   .local >> share >> applications >> wine >> Program Files >> iTunes

   

4. Now, right-click on iTunes.desktop and select Open With.
5. Then, select Open With Text and enter the following after “Exec=” but make sure to replace <yourusername> with the actual username. Some users may have to install a Text app. 

   env WINEPREFIX="/home/yourusername/.wine32" wine "/home/<yourusername>/.wine32/drive_c/Program Files/iTunes/iTunes.exe"

   

6. Now save the file and close the Text app.
7. Then, launch iTunes from the App Drawer and ta-da, iTunes successfully, installed and running on the Chromebook. A user may also pin iTunes to the Chrome Shelf.

Use the iTunes Website

If the above method is too complicated for a user or does not work and the user is interested in Music from iTunes, then he may use the iTunes website but it will be better to create a shortcut to the website. For illustration, we will discuss the process of adding a shortcut for the Music page of the Apple website in the Chrome browser.

1. Launch Chrome and head to the Music page of the Apple website.
2. Now click on the three vertical ellipses in the top right corner of the window and in the Chrome menu, expand More Tools.
3. Then, in the sub-menu shown, select Create Shortcut, and afterward, enter the shortcut name as iTunes.

   

4. Now a shortcut on the Chromebook’s desktop is available and can be used to listen to music from iTunes.

Import the iTunes Music to the YouTube Music

Many of the users may prefer to import iTunes music to YouTube music to take advantage of the Google ecosystem. A user is required to perform these steps on a PC.

1. Launch a web browser and head to the YouTube music website.
2. Now, drag and drop the iTunes music files to the YouTube music website.
3. Then accept the YouTube TOS (if asked to) and wait till the process completes.

   

4. Once done, iTunes music is available and can be played through YouTube music. The best part is YouTube music is supported on the Apple ecosystem (iPhone, iPad, etc.) through the YouTube music app and users can sync their files easily.

Use a Virtual Machine Application

There may be users who may be interested to take full advantage of iTunes on a Chromebook (but the Wine method did not work). For such users, using a virtual machine application is an ideal step. There are plenty of applications like Parallel Desktop for ChromeOS (it is a better option but paid one) but we will discuss the process for VirtualBox. There is a caveat to look for i.e., many of the Chromebooks with an ARM processor may fail to run a virtual machine and only Intel-based Chromebook may smoothly run a virtual machine.

Before proceeding, make sure to download a Windows ISO (if a high-end Chromebook is in use) or a lightweight Linux distro and the Chromebook does have space required for the guest OS of the Virtual machine.  

1. Launch a web browser on the Chromebook and head to the Linux downloads page of the VirtualBox website.
2. Now click on Debian 10 and save the download (around 80 MB).

   

3. Once downloaded, head to the downloaded location on the Chromebook and double-click the downloaded file.
4. Then select Install with Linux and follow the prompts on the screen to install VirtualBox.
5. Once installed, launch it from the Linux Apps Folder, and in the VirtualBox window, click on New.

   

6. Now follow the prompts on the screen to install a guest OS in VirtualBox like Windows (if the Chromebook is a high-end device) or a lightweight Linux distro.
7. Once installed, launch the virtual machine and install iTunes on the guest OS.
8. Once done, launch iTunes and ta-da, iTunes will be fully functional on the Chromebook.

Keep in mind Virtual machines are the heaviest way to run iTunes on a Chromebook.

The post How to Install iTunes on Chromebook Easily? appeared first on Appuals.com.

Use the Keyboard to Copy and Paste

The keyboard shortcuts for copy and paste work similarly on Chromebooks as on other systems. The keyboard for Chromebook does look a bit different, but all the keys are the same and work similarly. Check the below steps to see how you can do it:

1. Use your touchpad to highlight the text. You can do it by pressing the touchpad and then moving the cursor with another finger while holding the pressed button.
   Note: If you are in a text editor, you can also simply hold the shift and move the cursor through arrow keys to highlight the text.
2. Once selected, now simply press the CTRL + C buttons on your keyboard to copy the text.

   

3. Navigate to the document or text field where you want to paste. Click on the text area and press the CTRL + V buttons on your keyboard to paste the text.

   

4. You can also use the CTRL + A to select all text. There is also a CTRL + Z shortcut to undo the last action.

Use the Touchpad/Mouse to Copy and Paste

You can also just use the touchpad or mouse to copy and paste in Chromebook. There are two different methods to bring the context menu by using the touchpad. The context menu of the highlighted text will have the copy and paste options. Follow the below steps to see how it works:

1. Press the touchpad and move the cursor with another finger to highlight the text that you want to copy.
2. Now simply tap on the touchpad with two fingers at once to get the context menu. Alternatively, you can also press and hold the ALT key, then a single tap on the touchpad to bring the context menu.

   

3. After that, click on that Copy option in the context menu. Move to the area where you want to paste it.

   

4. Use the two fingers tap or the ALT with a single tap to bring the context menu again. Now click on the Paste option to paste it.
   Note: You may get a paste without format option in some cases, you can use that if you want to.

Use the Browser Copy and Paste Feature

There is also a Copy and Paste feature in the Chrome browser. It also includes some other options like Edit and Cut. However, this feature will only work inside the Chrome browser. If you are trying to copy or paste something outside of the Chrome browser, then you still need the user of the above methods shortcuts.

1. Highlight the text by using the touchpad. You can also highlight text with a keyboard if you are in a text editor.
2. Now click on the three dots menu option in Chrome browser.

   

3. In the context menu, you can find the Copy and Paste options that you can use to copy the highlighted text or simply paste it.
4. If you are using the copy and paste outside the browser, then you still require one of the above methods to do so.

The post How to Copy and Paste on a Chromebook? appeared first on Appuals.com.

You might be looking for an easy way to rotate the screen on your Chrome OS, or you might have accidentally pressed some random keys and this caused your screen to swung out of order.

If any of these scenarios are applicable, this article will help. In what follows, we’ll show you two different ways of changing the orientation of your Chromebook screen:

• You can change the orientation of your Chrome OS screen by using the built-in shortcut.
• You can change the orientation of your Chrome OS screen from the Settings menu.

PRO TIP: At the bottom of the article, we’ve also included some steps that will show you how to rotate the screen of an external device connected to a Chromebook.

Keep in mind that when you change the orientation of your Chromebook, the trackpad will follow the orientation of the screen.

All of the methods presented below will help you achieve the same thing with small differences, so feel free to follow whichever method you feel more comfortable with.

Rotate Chromebook Screen using Shortcut

If you’re using it for the easiest and painless way of rotating your Chromebook screen, you should use the Ctrl + Shift + Refresh (F3) shortcut.

Upon pressing these buttons at the same time, you will be prompted by a pop-up – Only after clicking Continue on this pop-up, you will see your screen rotating by 90 degrees. You will only see this prompt the first time you attempt to rotate your screen via this shortcut.

Note: The only drawback of this method is that it will only the screen clockwise by 90 degrees. If you’re looking to finetune the orientation of your screen on Chromebook, move down to the next potential fix below.

If you use this shortcut, the custom screen orientation will be preserved even after you restart your Chromebook device (until you press the key combination again). The exception to this rule is if you’re using a 2-in-1 device that has Auto-Rotation enabled.

Important: You might be unable to use this shortcut if the Function key feature is disabled on your Chrome OS settings. To fix this issue, follow the instructions below:

1. Start by clicking on the System Clock (bottom-right corner), then click on the gear icon from the pop-up menu that just appeared.

   

2. Once you’re inside the settings menu, click on Device from the tab on the left.
3. Next, move over to the right-hand side tab and select Keyboard.
4. From the collection of options under Keyboard, enable the toggle associated with Treat top-row keys as function keys.
   

   

Rotate screen from Chromebook’s Settings

This is the longer route out of the two, but also the one that gives you more control over the screen orientation of your Chrome OS. By using the Chromebook Settings menu, you can jump the screen orientation by 270 degrees without having to press any key combination.

This should be your preferred approach if you would like to set a screen orientation that you would like to use from now on.

If this scenario is applicable and you don’t mind taking the longer route, follow the instructions below:

1. From the desktop screen of your Chromebook device, click on the clock (bottom-right corner).
2. Next, from the action pop-up that just appeared, click on the gear icon to access the Settings menu.

   

3. Once you’re inside the Settings screen, select Device from the vertical tab on the left, then move over to the right-hand menu and click on Display from the list of available options.
4. Inside the Display cluster of options, use the drop-down menu associated with Orientation (under Built-in Display) to adjust the screen orientation according to your preferences.

   

   Note: You can choose from the Default (0°), 90°, 180° and 270°, but keep in mind that this menu will be inaccessible if you’re using a 2-in-1 Chromebook in Tablet Mode. In this case, you can make the menu accessible by disabling Auto-Rotation from the Chrome OS pop-up menu.

Rotate the Screen of an External Display Connected to Chromebook

If you have a second display hooked up to your Chromebook device, Chrome OS also gives you the option to change the orientation of your secondary devices.

Pro Tip: You can also use the Ctrl + Shift + Refresh (F3) shortcut to change the screen orientation of your secondary display, but your Chromebook cursor must be on the display you want to change the orientation of.

In case you want more control when rotating the screen of your external display, follow the instructions below to learn how to do it from the Settings screen:

1. On the desktop screen of your Chromebook, click on the clock button to bring up the action menu of Chrome OS.
2. From the context menu that just appeared, click or tap on the gear (Settings icon).

   

3. Once you’re inside the Settings menu, use the menu on the left to click on Devices, then select Displays from the menu on the right.
4. Inside the Display tab, select your external display by clicking or tapping on the dedicated button.

   

5. Finally, use the drop-down menu associated with Orientation to rotate the screen according to your own preferences.

   

The post How to Rotate the Screen on ChromeBook? appeared first on Appuals.com.

After investigating this particular issue thoroughly, it turns out that there are several different underlying causes that might be responsible for this behavior on Chromebooks. Here’s a short list of scenarios that might lead to the apparition of this issue:

Now that we’ve covered every potential cause of this issue, here’s a list of fixes that other users facing camera issues on Chromebook have successfully used to resolve the problem:

Restart Chromebook

As it turns out, one of the most common instances that will trigger this camera issue is an underlying glitch having to do with the way Chromebook is wired to handle permissions.

If you find yourself in a scenario where the Camera works just fine outside the camera app, simply reboot your Chromebook and retry once your device boots back up.

To initiate a restart on your Chromebook device, expand the context menu from the bottom-left corner of the screen. Once you see the power menu, simply click on the power button (near your account icon) and choose Restart from the dedicated menu that just appeared.

Once your Chromebook boots back up, repeat the action that was previously having trouble using the built-in camera and see if the problem is now fixed.

If this method was not effective in your case, move down to the next potential fix below.

Update ChromeOS to the latest version

As it turns out, Google addressed this particular bug with ChromeOS version 87.0.4280.142.

So if you’re consistently facing this issue (especially if you’re on ASUS c300 or a different ASUS Chromebook), priority zero should be to install the latest ChromeOS version.

Several affected users have confirmed that the problem was finally resolved once they went through the steps of installing the latest ChromeOS version available.

If you’re looking for specific instructions on how to do this, follow the instructions below:

1.  From the desktop screen, click on the bottom-right corner icon to bring up the Settings controller.

   

2. From the Settings controller menu, click on the gear icon to access the advanced Settings menu.

   

3. Once you’re inside the Settings menu of ChromeOS, click on the Action button in the top-left corner of the screen to bring up the sidebar menu.
4. From the sidebar menu that just appeared, click on About Chrome OS at the bottom of the screen.

   

5. Once you’re finally inside the About Chrome OS menu, go ahead and click on Check for Updates.

   

6. Wait until the scan is complete to see if a new version is identified.
7. In case a new ChromeOS version is available, follow the on-screen prompts to install the newest version, then restart your computer and see if the camera problem is fixed at the next startup.

If the same kind of issue is still occurring, move down to the next potential fix below.

Refresh the Chromebook

As it turns out, this particular issue can also be somehow related to corrupted information that’s currently maintained in your computer memory. If this scenario is applicable, a system refresh (hard reset) will force the system to clear and reestablish the software connections between the BIOS and the hardware.

As it’s been reported by a lot of affected users, this operation will promptly fix the vast majority of camera issues caused by a firmware glitch.

Follow the instructions below to refresh your Chromebook device:

Note: This procedure will not remove any local files of settings currently stored by your ChromeOS device.

1. On your Chromebook device, press the power button + the refresh button and keep them both pressed at the same time.

   

2. During this time, your computer will turn off, then turn on again. In case your Chromebook doesn’t boot up again automatically, release the power button and press it again to turn on the laptop once again.
3. Once your device boots back up again, repeat the action that was causing the camera issue and see if the problem is now fixed.

The post Camera Not Working on Chromebook? Here’s How to Fix It appeared first on Appuals.com.

Usually, the affected user encounters the error when he tries to connect to a new network. However, there were some users who started to face it on a network that they were using for a long time.

Before diving into more detailed solutions to fix the DHCP failure, try to connect to another network to rule out any hardware issue of the Chromebook. Also, check if other devices can connect to the problematic network. Contact the IT administrator of your organization if you are using a device managed by a school or company as the device may be restricted to connect to only some specific networks. Try to remove any other electro-magneto interference, i.e. any Bluetooth device or another router in the vicinity. Also, make sure the network is not set to use a hidden SSID.

Moreover, if you are trying to use a VPN, then disable the VPN client. If you are using a Wi-Fi extender, then remove the Wi-Fi extender as Chromebooks have a known history of having issues with them. Moreover, if a device made for the US is used in another country like Germany, then the device may have compatibility issues with the router.

Solution 1: Restart Your Networking Equipment and Chrome

The DHCP error could be caused by a temporary software or communication glitch. To rule out any such issue, it will be a good idea to restart your networking equipment and device.

1. Perform a complete Shut Down of your Chromebook (not just sleep by closing the lid).
2. Power off your modem/router and unplug from the power source.
3. Wait for 30 seconds before plugging everything back to a power source.
4. Wait for the modem/router’s lights to be stabilized.
5. Now, switch on the Chromebook, and later on connect your system to the Wi-Fi network to check if it is clear of the error.

Solution 2: Change the Sleep Settings of Chromebook

Chromebook has a known bug in which if your Chromebook goes to sleep, then upon waking up, the device may fail to connect to the network and the DHCP failed message may be shown. In this case, changing some sleep settings of the Chromebook where it doesn’t go to sleep when the lid closes may solve the problem.

1. Open Settings of your Chromebook.
2. Now click on Device and then click on Power.
3. Now open the dropdown of When Idle and select Turn off Display but Stay Awake.

   

4. Then open the dropdown of When Lid is Closed and select Stay Awake.

   

5. Now save your changes and exit Settings.
6. Then restart your device and connect to the network to check if it is clear of the error.

Note: Do note that this will prevent your Chromebook from completely sleeping when you close the lid. Only the screen will turn off. This is a workaround, not a fix.

Solution 3: Reconnecting to the Wi-Fi Network

There can be a network glitch due to which the connection between your device and router might not be stable. To clear out any such problem, it will be a good idea to forget the network and then reconnect to it. Do note that you will be required to re-enter the password.

1. In the bottom right corner of the window, click on the Wi-Fi icon and then click on the name of the network.

   

2. Now click on the gear icon to bring out the Network Settings window.
3. Then click on Wi-Fi.

   

4. Now, disconnect from the network (if connected) and then click on the right arrow of the network that you want to forget.

   

5. Click on the Forget button.

   

6. Now restart your device and then connect to the network to check if it is operating fine.

Solution 4: Use Google Name Servers for the Network

DNS servers play a vital role in the translation of the IP addresses into human-readable hostnames. If your device cannot query the DNS server, then it may return the DHCP failed error. In this scenario, switching to Google Name Servers may solve the problem.

1. Open Settings of your Chromebook.
2. Now under Network, click on the option of Wi-Fi.

   

3. Then click on the right-arrow of the problematic network.

   

4. Now scroll down and then open the dropdown of “Name Servers”.
5. Now select the option of “Google Name Servers”.

   

6. Then connect to the Network and check if the DHCP issue is resolved.
7. If not, restart your system, then repeat the process and in the network settings, select the option of “Automatic Name Servers” (where Google Name Servers were chosen previously).

   

8. Again, connect to the network and check if the Chromebook is clear of the error.
9. If not, open Network Settings of your connection and disable the option of “Configure IP Address Automatically”.

   

10. Then set a manual IP address for your device as per the IP scheme and restart the Chromebook.
11. Upon restart, check if your device is clear of the DHCP error.

Solution 5: Extend the DHCP Range of Addresses of the Network

There can be a fixed number of devices that can connect to a DHCP server. If the limit of the number of devices that can connect to the DHCP server is reached, e.g. if your DHCP server has a limit of 10 devices and you try to connect 11^th device, then you may encounter the DHCP error.

In this case, try to remove some devices from the network or increase the limit of the devices that can connect to the network may solve the problem. The instructions may differ from router to router due to the make and model of the device.

1. Open the web portal of your router in a web browser and login using your credentials.
2. Now navigate to the DHCP tab of the settings.

   

3. Then increase the DHCP IP range; if the upper range is 192.168.1.200, then increase it to 192.168.1.253. Some routers also specify the number of devices that can connect to a Wi-Fi network.

   

4. Save your changes and exit the portal.
5. Now try to connect to the network to check if it is clear of the DHCP failed error.

Solution 6: Change the Frequency Band of Your Wi-Fi Network

With the continuously evolving network standards and speeds, now routers are capable of broadcasting at a higher frequency/band channel than ever before. If your router is broadcasting at a frequency that is not supported by your device, then you may encounter the DHCP failed error.

In this case, switching to a network frequency recommended by your device may solve the problem. The instruction may differ depending upon the make and model of your router.

1. Open the web portal of your router and enter your credentials to log in.
2. Now navigate to the Wireless settings tab.
3. Change the band, e.g., if 2.4 GHz is selected, then switch to 5 GHz, and if 5 GHz is selected, then switch to 2.4 GHz.
4. Save your changes and exit the portal.
5. Now restart your system and then connect to the network to check if it is operating normally.

Solution 7: Update Chrome OS of Your Chromebook

The operating system of your device is continuously updated to satiate the ever-developing technological advancements and patch the known bugs. If Chrome OS of your device is outdated, then that could be the root cause of the issue. In this scenario, updating the OS of your device to the latest build may solve the problem.

1. Connect your device to the internet through an ethernet cable or Wi-Fi (whichever is possible).
2. Now open Settings of your Chromebook.
3. In the left pane of the window, click on About Chrome OS.
4. Then click on Check for Updates.

   

5. After updating OS, restart your device.
6. Then try to connect to the problematic network and check if the device is clear of the error.

Solution 8: Reset Your Router/Modem to Default Settings

Corrupt firmware of your router/modem could be the root cause of the DHCP issue. In this case, resetting your router/modem to the factory defaults may solve the problem. It’s usually not a complicated process and helps solve many network related issues. But due to the diversity of make and models of router/modem, it is practically impossible to cover all the steps to reset your modem/router, but the general approach is the same.

There are two methods to reset your router/modem; one is to use the button on the device (on some models, the power button can also be used to reset the device) whereas the other is to use the device’s web portal.

1. Power on your router/modem (if already not powered on).
2. Locate the Reset button, usually located on the bottom or backside of the device.
3. Now press the reset button for at least 30 seconds. You may have to use something small and pointy, like a paperclip.

   

4. Then release the power button and wait for the router to reset and power on fully. Usually, it takes 30 to 60 seconds.
5. If there is no button on your device, check your device’s manual to find out if the power button can be used to reset the device.

You can also use the web portal of your device to perform the reset operation of your device

1. Open a web browser and navigate to the default gateway (you can find the default gateway by using the IPConfig command in the Command Prompt or check the router’s back).
2. Then enter your credentials to access the web portal (default login and password is ‘admin’)
3. Now, locate the reset option. Usually, it is in the General or System tab. Find and click on the option Reset Settings (or Restore Defaults). Then confirm to reset and wait for the completion of the reset process.

   

4. After resetting the router/modem, restart your system and connect to the network to check if it is clear of the DHCP error.

If nothing has helped you so far, then try to either upgrade the firmware of your router or downgrade it (if everything was working fine before updating the router firmware). If the issue still persists, then visit an authorized technician shop of your Chromebook’s manufacturer to check the Chromebook for any hardware related issues.

The post Fix: DHCP Lookup Failed in Chromebook appeared first on Appuals.com.

Google has been updating its Chrome OS with new features since its release but it’s nowhere near to Windows, Mac or even some Linux distributions.

Chromebooks don’t run Windows software, normally which can be the best and worst thing about them. You can avoid Windows junk applications but you also can’t install Adobe Photoshop, the full version of MS Office, or other Windows desktop applications.

Luckily, there are workarounds to use Windows desktop programs on a Chromebook: either running them remotely, through Android, through developer mode or running them on your Chromebook itself.

Method 1: Windows Online Apps

If you just want to use the Office suite and don’t care about any of the other apps offered on Windows 10, this is the easiest option that can be done through the Chrome browser.

1. Launch the Chrome browser and navigate to Microsoft Office site.
2. Click on Use Free at Office.com

   

3. Click on Sign In

   

4. Enter your Microsoft Account ID and Password
5. After successful login, you will be taken to the office.com page

   

6. Click on the relevant application that you want to use and you will be redirected to the website of that particular application and start using the online free application there.

Method 2: Chrome Remote Desktop

The Chrome Remote Desktop is an extension of Google Chrome that simply allows you to access another desktop while using your Chrome browser just like a virtual machine. It has an interface that shows an entirely different OS that you can use. The base of this method is that you need another Windows 10 system connected to the internet so you could link to it. That’s the way it will work. It won’t be possible in some situations, but if you have a Windows computer around, this can be a most effective workaround.

1. On your Chromebook Navigate to Chrome Remote Desktop Website.

   

2. Click on Download Button

   

3. You will be redirected to Chrome Remote Desktop Webstore Page
4. Click on Add to Chrome Button

   

5. On next screen click on Add Extension

   

6. Chrome Remote Desktop will be added to extensions and will be shown next to the address bar.

   

7. Repeat the same process to your windows PC.
8. On Windows PC you will be asked to download an installer. Download that installer and click on Accept and Install

9. Click Yes

   

10. The installer will run and then you will be asked to enter the name of the device.

    

11. Enter the name as per your convenience for the device so you can easily remember and access it from Chromebook.
12. You will be prompted to enter 6 digits pin, enter the pin as per your easiness.

    

13. Click start, and you will be directed to the access page, and your device name in the middle and status will be starting for some time and then will become online (if there is no problem). I have named it My PC.

    

14. Now from Your Chromebook, go to Chrome Remote Desktop Site.
15. Click on the remote support tab and in the Get Support Click on the Generate Code.

    

16. On your Windows PC, go to Chrome Remote Desktop Site.
17. Click on Remote Support Tab and in Give Support section Enter the code generated in Step 15

    

18. And now you will be able to access your Windows computer and can use your favorite Windows applications.

Method 3: Emulators

An emulator is a hardware or software that enables one computer system (called the host) to behave like another computer system (called the guest). The host system can run software or use peripheral devices designed for the guest system through the use of an emulator.

Different software emulators can enable Chromebook to run windows. Examples are CrossOver by CodeWeavers and Exagear by Eltechs which is discontinued now. There are more Chromebook emulators are expected in the coming years.

So, for now, we have to go with CrossOver. CodeWeavers developed the CrossOver app as a solution to run Windows apps on other operating systems. In recent updates, CrossOver was given the ability to run Windows apps on Chromebook. Remember that the CrossOver Chrome OS version is not yet stable and is still in a beta phase of development. Something else that adds to the depth is the software requirements of employing this route. It can only run on an Intel-based Chromebook. All Android apps or devices will also have to be Android 5.x (or later)-compatible.

It will also need to have at least 2GB of RAM installed, and 200MB of storage space free for the installation, plus any additional room required for the apps you intend to use. Google created a list of Android supporting models, which is the way Windows apps work on Chromebooks, so check that before beginning any of the steps below.

Some Chromebooks, especially older ones, might have some trouble with this new app as the CrossOver for Chrome OS can run on an Intel processor.

Simply you will need one of the best Chromebooks that run Android apps to run the emulator without any lagging whatsoever,

Install CrossOver for Chrome OS

1. 1. Go to Profile Picture > Settings > Menu > Google Play Store
   2. Click Turn On if it hasn’t been already
   3. Open Play Store on your Chromebook
   4. And Download CrossOver from the Google Play Store

Prepare for Windows Program Installation

The CrossOver will automatically fetch the installation of some Windows software for you. But for most programs, it is a good idea to first download the offline installer of the desired program.

Whether it’s Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, or even a small program like IrfanView, get the full offline installer from its site. If you can’t find it, go to Standalone Offline Installers and download it from there. Keep that downloaded installer in an easy-to-find location on your Chromebook.

Install Windows Programs on Chromebooks

1. 1. Run CrossOver for Chrome OS.
   2. Start typing the name of your desired app in the Search Applications box. The CrossOver will suggest names. Click Install on the correct one to get started.
   3. Depending on the program, CrossOver will now fetch the correct files online to install it.
   4. Go through the installation procedure as you would with any Windows program.

      

   5. Don’t change the destination folder! You are right, Chrome OS doesn’t have anything like “C:\Program Files\Paint.NET” but do not change the destination folder. Changing the destination folder routinely causes errors in CrossOver.
   6. Finally, Installation Finished will be shown once the whole process is complete. Don’t open the app  yet even if you see a prompt for it

Install Unlisted Windows Programs on Chromebooks

The simple process expressed in step 4 works for some games and software, but not all. As already noted, it’s best if you downloaded an offline installer. In that case, the installation procedure is slightly different.

1. Run CrossOver for Chrome OS.
2. If CrossOver shows the name in search box install it, or click Install Unlisted Application when CrossOver could not find your desired app and prompts you.
3. Enter the name of the program you are installing and click Select Installer.
4. On the next screen, open the folder where you saved the offline installer on your hard drive. The CrossOver will list all Windows installers in that folder, so find the right one and click Install.
5. Again, follow the installation procedure as you normally would, and don’t change the destination folder.
6. Finally, Installation Finished will be displayed once the whole process is complete. Don’t launch the program just yet, even though you can see a prompt for it.

Run Windows Programs on Chromebook

1. After installation of the app, close and restart CrossOver.

   

2. You’ll see your new programs in Installed Apps. On Clicking the program, you will see two options: Manage program or Launch program.
3. Launch Program to use the Windows application as a Chrome app.

Limitations of CrossOver for Chromebooks

CrossOver for Chrome OS is in beta, so there could be some things that won’t work as advertised and expected. And even when they do, remember, you are essentially running Wine with a virtual Windows environment that will retain the look and feel of Windows software.

Method 4: Install Wine For Android

If all the above methods do not work for you, then it is time to move to deep waters. Chromebooks aren’t “just a browser”—they’re Linux laptops, as a result, you can install a full Linux desktop along with Chrome OS and switch between the two.

Wine is an open-source application that allows Windows applications to run on Linux and macOS. Wine is desktop software with no specific version of Wine designed for Chromebooks, but there are workarounds. Since Chrome OS is based on Linux, there are two ways to run Wine on your Chromebook: using the new Wine Android app, or by using Crouton to run it in Linux.

Remember that Wine in Linux would run smoothly on Intel Chromebooks but won’t run on ARM Chromebooks, and the Android version only supports Windows RT apps.

Wine also has an Android app that’s still currently in beta, but if you have a Chromebook that runs Android apps, it can allow you to run Windows programs without installing Crouton. It’s not yet available in the Google Play Store, so you’ll have to enable and use “Unknown Sources”. This will only work Google Play and Android Apps are supported by your Chromebook.

If you’re used to Android, you know that you need to enable the “Unknown Sources” option to install apps that aren’t available in Google Play. But in Chrome OS this option is not normally available and hidden.

Step 1: Change Release Channel to Developer

By default, all Chrome installations are on the stable channel—this includes browser installs on Windows, Mac, or Linux, as well as Chromebooks. And that makes sense. Google wants everyone to have the best experience possible right out of the gate.

If you’re not a “stable channel” kind of person, you can get access to all sorts of new stuff by switching to a different release channel. Right now, there are three primary channels:

• Stable: This is the default channel option. Choose this channel for rock-solid dependability.
• Beta: Offers access to newer features that are almost ready to be included in the stable channel. The beta channel allows you to test new features before they roll out to the masses, and is still mostly stable in our experience.
• Developer: Designed for developers to test new features, this is the most unstable of the three release channels, but it also offers the newest features quicker than the others. Only use this channel if you don’t mind a little instability in your life.

If you’re not scared away from changing channels yet, here’s how you can jump from the stable channel to something a little more rough around the edges.

First, click the “Customize” button (the one with three dots) in the upper right corner of the Chrome window, and then choose the “Settings” option.

On the “Settings” Window, click the Main Menu button i.e. the icon with three lines in the top left corner, and then choose “About Chrome OS.”

In the “About Chrome OS” window, Find “Detailed build information” and click this button.

Next, click the “Change Channel” button, and then choose the channel to the developer.

Step 2: Put Chromebook In Developer Mode

Now “Developer Mode” is to be enabled on your Chromebook. Chromebooks are locked down for security purposes and will only boot if the operating system is properly signed after checking the OS for tampering and preventing users and applications from modifying the Chrome OS. In Developer Mode you can disable all these security features, so you have a laptop to tweak and play with to your heart’s content.

When Developer Mode is enabled, you’ll be able to access a Linux terminal within Chrome OS and do whatever you like.

There are two quick warnings you should understand:

• Enabling and Disabling Developer Mode erases and Wipe data on Your Chromebook: So for the process of enabling Developer Mode, your Chromebook will be “power washed.” All the user accounts, their files, and data will be removed from your Chromebook. Of course, most of your data should be stored online, and afterward, you can access that data by logging into the Chromebook with the same Google account.
• Google Doesn’t Offer Support For Developer Mode: Developer mode is not officially supported by Google. It’s for the use of developers and power users. Google won’t provide support for this stuff. And the basic “This may void your warranty” warnings apply, so in other words in case of hardware failure in developer mode, just disable developer mode before getting warranty support.

  

To enable developer mode on modern Chromebooks, hold down the Esc and Refresh keys and tap the Power button to enter recovery mode. In Older Chromebooks, there were physical developer switches that you’ll need to toggle instead.

So, when At the recovery screen press Ctrl+D to agree to the prompt, and you’ll boot into developer mode.

Now, whenever you will boot your Chromebook, a warning screen will show. To continue boot either you have to press Ctrl+D or wait for 30 seconds so that warning could disappear.

This warning screen is to alert the user that the Chromebook is in developer mode and normal security measures are not intact.

Step 3: Enable Unknown Sources

Now apps from “Unknown Sources” will be enabled by opening the Chrome OS settings screen and find the “App Settings” link under Android Apps and click on it.

A new window will open showing Android’s Settings screen on your Chromebook. Click or tap the “Security” option.

Enable the “Unknown Sources” option under Device Administration. Now a warning will appear that will tell you to be careful about what you install.

What if the option of Unknown Sources does not appear? your Chromebook isn’t in developer mode. This option only appears here when your Chromebook is in developer mode, so try going through Step One again.

Step 4: Installation of the APK File

Now an app can be installed from an APK file. First, download the relevant version of the APK file and save it in your Downloads folder.

You might expect that you can simply double-click or load an APK file from Chrome’s Files application, but that doesn’t work. You’ll just see an error message saying “This file type is not supported.”

You’ll need an Android file management app to install APKs. Open Google Play and install any of the file management apps. We like Solid Explorer, but there are many other options. (For some reason, Android’s built-in file manager app won’t let you open and install APK files.)

Open your downloaded file manager app, open your “Download” folder through this app, and open the APK file. Select the “Package Installer” option on the app and you’ll be asked to install the APK.

Step 5: Linux Usage

After installation of Wine is completed, just open the app like normal to get access to a minimal, emulated version of Windows. It is still in beta, so the user experience may not be perfect. That said, I would recommend at least trying this option before going through the trouble of setting up Crouton if all you plan on doing is using it for Wine.

You now have a traditional Linux desktop. All that traditional Linux software is just an apt-get away in Ubuntu’s software repositories. Linux terminal utilities that you may want like Graphical utilities, local image editors, text editors, office suites and development tools, etc. are easy to install.

There’s one catch, though. On ARM Chromebooks, you’re a bit limited in what you can do. Some programs don’t run on ARM–basically, you won’t be able to run closed-source applications that haven’t been compiled for ARM Linux. Now you can access multiple open-source tools and desktop applications that can be recompiled for ARM, but closed-source applications won’t work, mostly on these machines.

Whereas you enjoy much more freedom on an Intel Chromebook where Steam for Linux, Minecraft, Dropbox, and all the typical applications could be installed that normally work on the Linux desktop.

You cannot run every Windows application of Wine as Wine is not perfect. You may not run some applications without manual tweaking. You have to consult the Wine application database for detailed information about applications and tweaks that are supported.

Method 5: Use Developer Mode and Install Wine for Crouton

Installing Linux on your Chromebook isn’t as simple as installing the standard Ubuntu system—at least not at the moment. You’ll need to choose a project developed especially for Chromebooks. There are two popular options:

• ChrUbuntu: ChrUbuntu is an Ubuntu system built for Chromebooks. It works like a traditional dual-boot system. You have to restart your Chromebook to change between Chrome OS and Ubuntu at boot time. You can install ChrUbuntu on Chromebook’s internal storage, USB device or SD card.
• Crouton: Croutonbasically uses a “chroot” environment to run both Ubuntu and Chrome OS at the same time. Ubuntu runs along with Chrome OS and you can switch between Chrome OS and Linux desktop environment with a keyboard shortcut. You can take advantage of both environments without rebooting your system.

Google has added native support for Linux apps directly to Chrome OS, and this feature is available on many Chromebooks. You don’t need Crouton to run Linux software anymore if supported by your Chromebook.

If your Chromebook does not support natively for Android Apps then We’ll use Crouton for this. It takes advantage of the Linux system underlying Chrome OS to run both environments at once and is a much slicker experience than traditional dual-booting. With Crouton You did not worry about the drivers of your hardware as it uses standard drivers for your Chromebook’s hardware.

With Crouton, you’re just running one operating system i.e.  Linux but you’re running two environments on top of the OS i.e. Chrome OS and a traditional Linux desktop.

Step 1: Enable Developer Mode:

Enable Developer mode as explained in Method-4 of this article.

Step 2: Download and Install Crouton

Next, it’s time to download Crouton

1. After the download is complete, open a shell

   (Ctrl+Alt+T, type shell, and hit enter).

   This will only work if Chromebook is in Developer Mode.

2. Run the following command to Copy the installer to an executable place

   “sudo install -Dt /usr/local/bin -m 755 ~/Downloads/crouton”

3. Now that it’s executable, run the installer itself:

   sudo crouton -t xfce

4. Run the following command to install Crouton the easy way. This will installs Crouton with the Xfce desktop along with an encrypted chroot for security.

   sudo sh ~/Downloads/crouton -e -t xfce

The installation process will be completed in a while.

Step 3: Usage of Crouton

1. After completion of the installation process, either of the following commands could be run  to enter your  Crouton session (if installed Crouton with Xfce):

sudo enter-chroot startxfce4sudo startxfce4

Step 4: Switching Between Environments

To switch between the Chrome OS and your Linux desktop environment, use the following keyboard shortcuts:

• For an ARM Chromebook Which are in majority: Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Back and Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Forward. Note: back and forward browser navigation buttons on the top row, not the arrow keys.
• For an Intel x86/AMD64 Chromebook: Ctrl+Alt+Back and Ctrl+Alt+Forward plus Ctrl+Alt+Refresh

If you want to exit the chroot, just log out (using the “log out” option) of the Xfce desktop (or the Unity desktop, if you’re using that)–you should not don’t use the “shut down” as it will not log you out but in fact it will power the Chromebook down. You’ll then need to run the sudo startxfce4 command above to enter the chroot again.

If you’d rather install Ubuntu’s Unity desktop instead, use -t unity instead of -t xfce in the command above. It’s worth noting that Unity won’t run as smoothly on most Chromebooks’ limited hardware. Run the following command to see the list of installation types even installations without a graphical desktop:

sh -e ~/Downloads/crouton

Method 6: Run Linux Software in Developer Mode

The user of Chromebook may not need to run a Windows program at all as Windows programs have their own Linux versions and can be run on a Chromebook using Crouton’s Linux desktop e.g. if you want to run games on a Chromebook, Steam for Linux offers many games and its catalog is continually expanding. So, technically you are not “running Windows software”, but in some cases, it’s just as good.

Keep in mind that many Linux programs, such as Minecraft, Skype, and Steam, are only available for Intel x86 processors and can not run on devices with ARM processors.

Method 7: Use Developer Mode and Install a Virtual Machine

If Wine is not your piece of cake, you can also run a Windows virtual machine from the Linux desktop with Crouton. Similarly like the above-discussed option,

1. Enable developer mode.
2. To get a Linux desktop alongside your Chrome OS, install Crouton.
3. Install a virtualization program like VirtualBox.
4. Install Windows inside VirtualBox like normal
5. Now with a keyboard shortcut, you can switch back and forth between your Chrome desktop and Linux desktop.

Important: Many virtual machine applications like VirtualBox would not run on ARM Chromebooks and will run on an Intel-based Chromebook to try this out.

Virtual machines are the heaviest way to do this and you will need a powerful Chromebook to drive the virtual machine software, Windows, and desktop applications. Newer Chromebooks with modern and fast processors may be able to handle this. Virtual machines will take up a lot of disk space and Chromebooks don’t often have, so, not a good combination.

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