Tuesday Tech Tip: Run both ChromeOS and Ubuntu on your Chromebook

I knew that it was possible to replace ChromeOS with a linux distro on my Chromebook but what I didn’t know was that it’s not only possible, but easy to run both ChromeOS and Ubuntu on the same machine.

If you need to use those productivity programs that Chrome OS just doesn’t offer, or you just want to try something new, Linux on your Chromebook has you covered.

You’ve may have seen chatter on the internet about installing Linux on your Chromebook. Plenty of longtime Chrome OS users are doing it, and it allows the use of programs like GIMP (a Photoshop replacement), or Darktable, (a Lightroom alternative) as well as plenty of programs for video and audio editing. It’s a way to use your Chromebook for the few power-user features you might need. It’s also completely free and easier than you think.

Let’s walk through an easy setup that keeps Chrome OS and is able to run Ubuntu with the Xfce desktop and any applications you might need. You’ll be able to run both operating systems at once with a shared Downloads folder, a shared clipboard and web links opening in the Chrome browser you’re already familiar with. You can even run them side by side in a split window.

And yes, it really is as cool as it sounds.

Head on over to Android Central for the full set of instructions.