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How do I change from ChromeOS to Ubuntu?

Published in ChromeOS/Ubuntu 2 mins read

Switching between ChromeOS and Ubuntu (assuming you have Ubuntu installed in a dual-boot or similar setup, often referred to as a "chroot" environment) involves using specific keyboard shortcuts and terminal commands.

Here's how you typically switch between the two operating systems:

  • Switching between ChromeOS and Ubuntu (if using a Chroot environment such as Crouton):

    1. Keyboard Shortcuts: Use Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Back and Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Forward to cycle between ChromeOS and your Ubuntu environment. These shortcuts are designed to switch between different "virtual terminals" or "windows" where the respective OS environments are running.

    2. Returning to Ubuntu After Logging Out: After logging out of your Ubuntu session, you'll usually be dropped back into the ChromeOS terminal tab where you initially started Ubuntu.

    3. Restarting Ubuntu: To get back into Ubuntu from ChromeOS, open a ChromeOS terminal (usually via Ctrl+Alt+T), then type the following command and press Enter: sudo startunity

Important Considerations:

  • Installation Method: The exact steps may vary depending on how Ubuntu was installed on your Chromebook. Commonly used methods involve tools like Crouton or dual-booting through custom firmware. These instructions assume you are using Crouton or a similar chroot setup.
  • Dual Boot (Less Common): If you have completely replaced ChromeOS with Ubuntu via a true dual boot, you will generally need to access your BIOS settings to select which OS to boot into at startup. This process varies greatly by device.
  • Crostini (Linux Beta): If you are referring to the built-in Linux (Beta) support (Crostini) in ChromeOS, that environment runs alongside ChromeOS, and you access Linux applications from the ChromeOS interface. This is not a separate operating system in the way a Chroot or dual-boot is.

In summary, pressing Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Back and Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Forward is the common method for swapping between environments if using Crouton. If that doesn't work or you've set up dual boot, you will have to alter boot settings.

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