I'm very new to Linux and computer hardware, so I'd appreciate a beginner-friendly explanation. I have an Acer Chromebook 315, model series CB315-4H, and I'd like to know whether ChromeOS can be fully replaced with Linux. If it's possible, what steps and precautions should I follow?
2 Answers
You may not need to remove ChromeOS at all. ChromeOS includes a Linux development environment called Crostini, which lets you run Linux applications and use many command-line tools inside ChromeOS. It’s much safer and easier for a beginner than replacing the firmware. If you mainly want Linux programs or a terminal, try this option first; a full installation only makes sense if you specifically need Linux to run as the laptop’s main operating system.
The usual route is to use the MrChromebox firmware instructions for your exact Chromebook model. You’ll need to disable the firmware write protection and replace the stock firmware with a UEFI-style firmware before installing Linux. Check the device-specific instructions carefully, because the write-protection method for this model may involve a SuzyQ cable. Back up anything important first, since this process can erase the device and carries some risk.
After the firmware change, it should behave more like a regular laptop, but the hardware is fairly limited. A lightweight Linux distribution is a better choice, especially if the Chromebook has only 32GB or 64GB of eMMC storage.