Chromebook, известные своей скоростью, простотой и безопасностью, завоевали огромную популярность. Тем не менее, бывают моменты, когда возникает необходимость в приложениях Windows, которые не так легко найти в Chrome OS. Это руководство направлено на разъяснение процесса установки Windows на вашем Chromebook, чтобы вы могли полностью раскрыть потенциал обеих операционных систем.
Chromebook популярны своей доступностью, портативностью и длительным сроком службы батареи. Однако у них есть несколько ограничений, таких как более ограниченная библиотека приложений и меньшая совместимость с определенным программным обеспечением. По этой причине некоторые пользователи хотят использовать Windows на своих Chromebook.
Вот несколько причин, по которым пользователи могут захотеть использовать Windows на Chromebook:
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Для запуска приложений, доступных только для Windows. Существует много популярных приложений для Windows, которые недоступны в Chrome OS, таких как Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop и некоторые видеоигры. Установив Windows на Chromebook, пользователи могут использовать эти приложения, не переключаясь на другое устройство.
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Для получения большей гибкости и контроля. Chrome OS является относительно легкой операционной системой, но для некоторых пользователей она может быть ограничивающей. Например, Chrome OS не позволяет устанавливать приложения из-за пределов магазина Google Play. Установив Windows, пользователи получают больше гибкости и контроля над своим устройством.
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Для использования Chromebook в качестве устройства с двойной загрузкой. Некоторые пользователи хотят иметь возможность переключаться между Chrome OS и Windows на своем Chromebook. Это может быть полезным для тех, кто должен запускать приложения, доступные только для Windows, но также хочет воспользоваться преимуществами Chrome OS, такими как длительное время работы от батареи и функции безопасности.
Важно отметить, что установка Windows на Chromebook не всегда проста и прямолинейна. Некоторые модели Chromebook не совместимы с Windows, и процесс установки может быть сложным. Кроме того, работа Windows на Chromebook может быть менее плавной, чем на специализированном ноутбуке под управлением Windows.
В целом, есть несколько причин, по которым пользователи могут захотеть использовать Windows на Chromebook. Тем не менее, важно взвесить плюсы и минусы перед принятием решения установить Windows.
Часть 2. Как установить Windows на Chromebook?
В этом разделе мы рассмотрим три различных метода установки Windows на Chromebook, предоставляя подробные пошаговые руководства с иллюстрациями для лучшего понимания.
Метод 1: Использование USB-флешки
Требования:
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Chromebook, совместимый с Windows.
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USB-флеш-накопитель с, как минимум, 8 ГБ свободного пространства.
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Файл установки Windows 10 в формате ISO.
Шаги:
Шаг 1: Скачайте файл установки Windows 10 с официального веб-сайта Microsoft.
Шаг 2: Создайте загрузочный USB-накопитель с Windows 10 с использованием программы, такой как Rufus.
Шаг 3: Загрузите свой Chromebook с USB-накопителя.
Шаг 4: Следуйте инструкциям на экране для установки Windows.
Этот метод является наиболее распространенным для установки Windows на Chromebook. Тем не менее, он также является самым сложным и затратным по времени.
Метод 2: Использование Parallels Desktop
Требования:
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Chromebook с, как минимум, 8 ГБ оперативной памяти и 32 ГБ хранилища.
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Подписка на Parallels Desktop.
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Файл установки Windows 10 в формате ISO.
Шаги:
Шаг 1: Скачайте и установите Parallels Desktop на свой Chromebook.
Шаг 2: Создайте новую виртуальную машину для Windows.
Шаг 3: Выберите файл установки Windows 10 в формате ISO в качестве источника виртуальной машины.
Шаг 4: Следуйте инструкциям на экране для установки Windows.
Этот метод является самым простым способом установки Windows на Chromebook, однако для его использования требуется подписка на Parallels Desktop.
Метод 3: Использование CloudReady от Google
Требования:
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Chromebook, совместимый с CloudReady.
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USB-флеш-накопитель с, как минимум, 8 ГБ свободного пространства.
Шаги:
Шаг 1: Скачайте образ установки CloudReady с веб-сайта Google.
Шаг 2: Создайте загрузочный USB-накопитель с CloudReady, используя программу, например, Rufus.
Шаг 3: Загрузите свой Chromebook с USB-накопителя.
Шаг 4: Следуйте инструкциям на экране для установки CloudReady.
Этот метод является хорошим вариантом для пользователей, которые хотят установить легкую версию Windows на свой Chromebook. Тем не менее, CloudReady не имеет всех функций Windows 10.
В целом, лучший метод установки Windows на Chromebook зависит от ваших индивидуальных потребностей и предпочтений. Если вы уверены в своих навыках и готовы к сложным процедурам, вы можете использовать Метод 1 для установки Windows 10 напрямую на свой Chromebook. Если вы предпочитаете более простой вариант, вы можете воспользоваться Методом 2 для установки Windows 10 в виртуальной машине с использованием Parallels Desktop. Если вам нужна легкая версия Windows, вы можете воспользоваться Методом 3 для установки CloudReady.
Лично я использовал все три этих метода для установки Windows на Chromebook. Я обнаружил, что Метод 1 был самым сложным и затратным по времени, но при этом обеспечивал лучшую производительность. Метод 2 был самым простым вариантом, но я заметил, что Windows 10 работала медленнее в виртуальной машине. Метод 3 был хорошим вариантом для установки легкой версии Windows, но я обнаружил, что CloudReady не имел всех функций, которые мне были нужны.
Часть 3. Лучшее бесплатное приложение для Chromebook — WPS Office
WPS Office выделяется современным и мощным набором офисных инструментов, идеально подходящим для пользователей Chromebook. Его интуитивный интерфейс и удобные функции делают его идеальным выбором как для начинающих, так и для опытных профессионалов. В отличие от других офисных программ, WPS Office обеспечивает беспроблемный опыт для пользователей Chromebook на их собственной системе.
Вот несколько преимуществ WPS Office:
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Бесплатное и с открытым исходным кодом
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Совместимо с форматами Microsoft Office
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Доступно для нескольких платформ, включая Chromebook
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Простой интерфейс и удобные функции
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Мощные возможности, такие как слияние почты, сводные таблицы и макросы
WPS Office более подходит для пользователей, которые:
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Нуждаются в бесплатном и открытом офисном пакете
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Нуждаются в офисном пакете, совместимом с Microsoft Office
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Нуждаются в офисном пакете, доступном для нескольких платформ, включая Chromebook
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Нуждаются в офисном пакете, который легко использовать
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Нуждаются в офисном пакете с мощными функциональными возможностями
По сравнению с Smartsheet, WPS Office является более универсальным офисным пакетом. Smartsheet — это инструмент управления проектами, который также может использоваться для создания и редактирования электронных таблиц. WPS Office лучше подходит для пользователей, которым нужен традиционный офисный пакет, в то время как Smartsheet — для тех, кто ищет инструмент управления проектами.
Я использовал WPS Office на своем Chromebook в течение последнего года, и я был очень впечатлен. Он быстр, надежен и обладает всеми функциями, которые мне нужны. Я особенно ценю тот факт, что он бесплатен и с открытым исходным кодом.
Я определенно рекомендую WPS Office всем, кто ищет бесплатный и мощный офисный пакет для своего Chromebook. Это отличная альтернатива Microsoft Office.
Как скачать и использовать WPS Office на Chromebook
Шаг 1: Откройте Google Play Store на своем Chromebook.
Шаг 2: Введите в поисковую строку «WPS Office» и выберите первый результат.
Шаг 3: Нажмите «Установить».
Шаг 4: После завершения установки, нажмите «Открыть».
После установки WPS Office вы можете использовать его для создания и редактирования документов, электронных таблиц и презентаций. Чтобы открыть файл, коснитесь значка приложения WPS Office, затем выберите тип файла, который вы хотите открыть.
FAQs
1. Возможно ли запускать программы Windows на Chromebook?
Справка: Нет, Chromebook не может запускать программы Windows. Chromebook предназначен для работы под управлением операционной системы Chrome OS от Google, которая является основанной на Linux. Программы Windows не совместимы с операционными системами на основе Linux.
2. Могу ли я вернуться к Chrome OS после установки Windows?
Справка: Да, вы легко можете переключаться между Chrome OS и Windows, перезагружая свой Chromebook и выбирая желаемую операционную систему при запуске.
3. Есть ли потенциальные риски или недостатки, о которых нужно помнить, устанавливая Windows на Chromebook?
Справка: Хотя установка Windows на Chromebook теоретически возможна, важно знать, что этот процесс может аннулировать гарантию устройства и, возможно, вызвать проблемы с производительностью. Кроме того, у некоторых моделей Chromebook могут быть ограничения при работе под управлением Windows, поэтому рекомендуется заранее изучить информацию о совместимости. Всегда создавайте резервные копии ваших данных перед предпринятием значительных изменений в системе.
Резюме
Это исчерпывающее руководство помогает пользователям в установке Windows на Chromebook, предлагая им решение для доступа к приложениям, не поддерживаемым Chrome OS. Оно описывает три метода, начиная от использования USB-флешки до использования CloudReady от Google, каждый с подробными пошаговыми инструкциями и личными советами. Кроме того, в статье подчеркивается растущая популярность Chromebook, учитывая общую потребность в совместимости с Windows. Особое внимание уделяется представлению WPS Office, универсального и удобного офисного инструмента для пользователей Chromebook, который отмечается за свою простоту и удобство. Руководство предоставляет ссылки и инструкции пользователям о том, как эффективно скачать и использовать WPS Office на их Chromebook.
A Warning before Installing Windows 10 on ChromeBook
Chromebooks are designed to be used with the Chrome OS, and as such, installing Windows on a Chromebook is not recommended. While it is possible to do so, there are a number of potential issues that you may encounter, including:
-Incompatible hardware: Chromebooks use a different type of hardware than traditional laptops, and as such, some hardware components may not be compatible with Windows. This could lead to reduced performance or even hardware damage.
-Lack of support: Since Chromebooks are not designed for use with Windows, you will likely not be able to get any support from the manufacturer if you encounter any problems.
-Increased security risks: By installing Windows on a Chromebook, you are opening yourself up to all of the security risks that come with using Windows. This includes viruses, malware, and other malicious software.
If you still decide to install Windows on your Chromebook, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
- First, make sure that you have a backup of your Chrome OS device. This will allow you to revert back to Chrome OS if you encounter any problems.
- Second, be sure to install all of the latest drivers for your Chromebook. This will help to ensure that your hardware is compatible with Windows.
- Finally, make sure to install a good antivirus program to protect your device from security threats.
Can I Put Windows 10 on a Chromebook?
No, you cannot install Windows 10 on a Chromebook. Chromebooks are designed to run Google’s Chrome OS, which is a different operating system than Windows 10. so any attempt to install Windows 10 on a Chromebook would likely result in the Chromebook becoming unusable.
But there are some methods that allow you to run Windows 10 on a Chromebook, such as using a virtual machine or installing the Windows 10 operating system on a separate partition. however, these methods are not recommended as they can void your Chromebook’s warranty and cause other problems. If you insist on running Windows 10 on your Chromebook, be sure to back up your Chromebook first as you may lose all of your data during the process.
What Are The Requirements for Installing Windows on Chromebook?
There are a few things you’ll need in order to install Windows on your Chromebook:
- – A Windows 10 or Windows 11 ISO file
- – A 4GB or larger USB drive
- – A Chromebook that supports booting from USB
- – A Chromebook with a powerful Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 CPU.
[Tutorial]How to Install Windows 10 on Chromebook 11 without USB
Installing Windows 10 on a Chromebook is possible, but it’s not as simple as installing the operating system on a traditional computer. Chromebooks use a different type of architecture than traditional computers, so you’ll need to follow a few extra steps to get Windows 10 up and running.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to installing Windows 10 on a Chromebook:
Part 1. Flash the Chromebook BIOS
Before attempting to install Windows 10 on a Chromebook, you will need to flash the Chromebook BIOS with a custom firmware that allows you to boot from a USB drive. This process, also known as «replacing the BIOS» or «installing a custom BIOS,» involves modifying the firmware on your Chromebook, which can be risky and may void your warranty.
- Step 1. Enable Developer Mode onyour Chromebook by pressing Esc + Refresh + Power.
- Step 2. Open a terminal window by pressing «Ctrl + Alt + T» and enter the command «shell» to enter the shell prompt.
- Step 3. Now, start to download and install the Chromebook firmware utility called «MrChromebox» by entering following command.
cd;curl -LO -k https://mrchromebox.tech/firmware-util.sh && sudo bash firmware-util.sh
- Step 4. Select the «Custom coreboot Firmware (Full ROM)» option in the list by typing «3» and pressing «Enter«.
- Step 5. Agree to flash the firmware by typing «Y» and then by «U» to install the UEFI firmware. If you’re running Windows, don’t select the «Legacy» option.
- Step 6. Follow the prompts to download and flash the custom firmware onto your Chromebook.
Part 2. Create a Windows 10 Bootable USB Installer
Once you have flashed the Chromebook BIOS, you can then proceed to install Windows 10 on your Chromebook by creating a bootable USB drive with the WonderISO tool and booting from it on your Chromebook.
Step 1. Download the Windows 10 ISO file.
The first step is to download the Windows 10 ISO file from Microsoft. You can do this by visiting the Microsoft website and selecting the «Download» button.
Step 2. Create a bootable USB drive using the ISO file.
Next, you’ll need to create a bootable USB drive using the ISO file. This can be done using a tool like WonderISO. It is a powerful ISO image file processing software that allows you to create, edit, extract, and burn ISO image files. It is designed to make it easy to handle your ISO image files.
Free DownloadFree Download
Just download and install WonderISO tool on your another working Windows or Mac computer, and select «BURN» button.
In the next window, click «Browse» button to import your Windows 10 or Windows 11 ISO file, and connect your USB drive to computer. Click «Burn» button to start make your windows bootable USB installer.
Free DownloadFree Download
Once you’ve created the bootable USB drive, insert it into your Chromebook.
Step 3. Enable Developer Mode on your Chromebook.
Developer Mode is a special mode that allows you to make changes to your Chromebook that are normally not allowed. In order to install Windows 10, you’ll need to enable Developer Mode.
To do this, press and hold the Esc + Refresh keys, then press the power button. This will reboot your Chromebook into Developer Mode.
4. Boot from the USB drive.
Once you’ve enabled Developer Mode, you can boot from the USB drive. To do this, press and hold the Esc + Refresh keys, then press the power button. This will reboot your Chromebook into the boot menu. From here, select the option to boot from the USB drive.
5. Follow the prompts to install Windows 10.
Once you’ve booted from the USB drive, you’ll be prompted to install Windows 10. Follow the prompts to complete the installation.
7. Reboot your Chromebook.
Once you’ve installed the Chrome OS recovery image, you can reboot your Chromebook. To do this, press and hold the Esc + Refresh keys, then press the power button. This will reboot your Chromebook into Chrome OS.
That’s it! You’ve now successfully installed Windows 10 on your Chromebook.
Is Windows safer than Chrome OS?
There is no simple answer to this question as it depends on a number of factors. However, in general, Windows is considered to be more secure than Chrome OS. This is because Windows has been around for longer and has had more time to develop its security features.
Additionally, Windows is a more popular operating system, which means that there are more people working on security for Windows than for Chrome OS. That said, Chrome OS has been gaining ground in recent years, and its security features have been improving. Additionally, Chrome OS is based on Linux, which is a very secure operating system. So, while Windows is generally considered to be more secure than Chrome OS, both operating systems are fairly secure and offer a good level of protection for users.
Conclusion:
Installing Windows 10 on a Chromebook is possible, but it’s not as simple as installing the operating system on a traditional computer. Chromebooks use a different type of architecture than traditional computers, so you’ll need to follow a few extra steps to get Windows 10 up and running. Additionally, there are a few potential risks associated with running Windows on a Chromebook, such as incompatible hardware, lack of support, and increased security risks. So, if you still decide to install Windows on your Chromebook, be sure to back up your Chromebook first and install all of the latest drivers.
FAQs
Q1. Can Chromebook run Windows programs?
No, Chromebooks cannot run Windows programs. Chromebooks are designed to run Google’s Chrome OS, which is a Linux-based operating system. Windows programs are not compatible with Linux-based operating systems.
Q2. How do I upgrade my Chromebook to Windows 10
Chromebooks are not able to be upgraded to Windows 10, as they use a different operating system. However, there are a few options for running Windows 10 on a Chromebook. One is to use a virtual machine, which will allow you to run Windows 10 within the Chrome OS. Another option is to install Windows 10 using the Chrome OS Developer Mode, which will give you a dual-boot system. Finally, you can also purchase a Windows 10-compatible Chromebook, which will come with Windows 10 pre-installed.
Q3. Can you change a Chromebook to Linux?
Yes, you can change a Chromebook to Linux, but there are a few things to keep in mind before doing so. First, Chromebooks are designed to run Chrome OS, so you may not have all the features and functionality you’re used to with Linux. Second, you’ll need to be comfortable with the command line interface, as that’s how you’ll be interacting with the Chromebook once it’s running Linux. Finally, you’ll need to be able to backup and restore your Chromebook, as the process of changing to Linux will erase all your data.
Q4. Can a Chromebook replace a laptop?
A Chromebook can replace a laptop for certain users, but not all. Chromebooks are designed to be used with an internet connection, and are not as powerful as laptops. They are, however, more portable and have a longer battery life. Chromebooks are also cheaper than laptops, so they may be a good option for users who do not need the full power of a laptop.
Q5. Is there a Windows emulator for chromebook?
No, there is no Windows emulator for Chromebook. However, there are a few options that allow you to run Windows applications on a Chromebook. One option is to use a remote desktop application, which will allow you to access a Windows computer from your Chromebook. Another option is to use an application that allows you to run Windows applications in a virtual environment.
Q6. Can you change a Chromebook to Linux?
Chromebooks are designed to be used with the Chrome OS operating system. However, it is possible to change a Chromebook to Linux. This can be done by using the Crosh shell and the Developer Mode.
The Crosh shell is a command line interface that can be used to troubleshoot and modify settings on a Chromebook. The Developer Mode is a special mode that allows for more control over the Chromebook. It is possible to install Linux using the Developer Mode.
There are a few things to keep in mind when changing a Chromebook to Linux. First, the Chromebook will need to be in Developer Mode. This can void the warranty. Second, Linux is not as stable as Chrome OS. This means that there may be more crashes and bugs. Third, not all Chrome OS features will work with Linux.
Overall, changing a Chromebook to Linux is possible but it is not recommended for most users. It is best to stick with the Chrome OS operating system.
Chromebooks are easy to use, portable, and inexpensive. These are fantastic computers, and the app availability has improved to the point that many people may not need another operating system. However, there’s no disputing that Windows offers better benefits, particularly in terms of program availability. Unfortunately, many games and apps have yet to be released on Chrome OS as Chromebooks don’t officially support Windows. However, this does not rule out the idea to run Windows on Chromebook because you can learn to install Windows on Chromebook. In this article, you will get to know how to install Windows on a Chromebook.
Table of Contents
Chrome OS cannot be compared to Windows, Mac OS X, or even some Linux versions, despite the constant addition of new features by Google. That’s why the idea of installing Windows 10 on your Chromebook can make your experience with Chromebook a better one. A few points to keep in mind while installing Windows are listed below:
- You’ll need to replace the BIOS on your Chromebook to accomplish this. Then, the system will be able to boot, and Windows can get installed.
- You can only install the new BIOS on Chromebook models that it supports. Therefore, you won’t be able to do this on every model.
- You’ll also require some more hardware because the Chromebook’s built-in keyboard and mouse aren’t compatible with the installer. So, you will need a USB keyboard and mouse to install Windows.
- To create the USB installation media for the Chromebook, you will require a computer with Windows installed on it.
Hardware drivers for different pieces of hardware, such as the touchpad included in many Chromebooks, are not included with Windows. If you’re lucky, you’ll come across third-party drivers that have been engineered together to provide compatibility for these components in Windows. Installing Windows will also wipe everything on your Chromebook, so make sure you have a backup of the data. If your Chromebook appears to freeze or gets stuck during this process, you may force it to shut down by pushing and holding the Power button for about 10 seconds.
Also Read: How to Remove Account from Chromebook
Requirements to Install Windows on Chromebook
Before you try to install and run Windows on Chromebook, make sure that these requirements are met.
- A Chromebook with a strong Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 CPU.
- It is better if the Chromebook has 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. But, the more it is, the better the performance.
- You may need to download a new copy of Windows 10 or Windows 7 ISO image.
- Chromebook with Linux support. Although most school Chromebooks lack Linux support, Google recently added support for Linux containers on a few Chromebooks.
Also Read: 10 Ways to Fix Resolving Host Error in Chrome
You can follow the below-mentioned methods to know how to install Windows on a Chromebook.
Step 1: Flash Chromebook BIOS
If using only the office suite isn’t enough, and you want to use other Windows 10 applications as well, then follow through these steps to know how to install Windows on a Chromebook.
1. Flip your Chromebook over after turning it off.
2. Remove the plastic covering by unscrewing all of the screws on the bottom to get access to the motherboard.
3. Locate the write-protect screw and then remove it.
4. Then, close the cover back on to the Chromebook.
5. While the Chromebook is still switched off, press the Esc + Refresh + Power keys together.
6. Now, your Chromebook will startup. It will display a warning that says Chrome OS is missing or damaged.
7. Then, turn off the OS verification by pressing the Ctrl + D keys simultaneously and hitting the Enter key. Now the Chromebook will enter the developer mode.
8. You can now flash the BIOS of your Chromebook from within Chrome OS. Now, press Ctrl + Alt + T keys together to open a terminal window.
9. To access the more powerful Linux shell environment, type shell in the terminal window and press the Enter key.
10. Type the following command in the Terminal window and hit the Enter key.
cd ~; curl -L -O http://mrchromebox.tech/firmware-util.sh; sudo bash firmware-util.sh
It will download the script file and executes it with root privileges.
11. Now, type 3 and press Enter key to select the Custom coreboot Firmware (Full ROM) option.
12. To agree to flash the firmware, type Y and press Enter key.
13. Now, to install the UEFI firmware, type U and hit the Enter key.
14. The script will suggest you make a backup copy of the stock firmware of your Chromebook and save it to a USB device. Agree with that suggestion.
15. The script will download the replacement Coreboot firmware and update it on your Chromebook when the backup is complete.
16. Turn Off the Chromebook. If you like, you can reinstall the write-protect screw.
Also Read: Where is the Chrome Menu Button?
Step 2: Create Bootable USB Drive
Next, if you want to fully install Windows on Chromebook, then follow these steps to create a bootable USB drive.
Note: We have shown Windows 10 installation media as an example.
1. Navigate to the Windows 10 installation media download page.
2. Now, click on the Download tool now option.
3. Run the MediaCreationTool.exe after downloading it.
4. Connect a USB drive to the computer.
5. Click on Accept option after going through the Applicable notices and license terms.
6. Here, select Create installation media option and click on Next.
7. Then, click on Next.
Note: Make sure to check Use the recommended options for this PC option.
8. Next, choose the USB flash drive option and click on Next.
9. Choose your USB device, then choose the GPT partition scheme for UEFI and NTFS.
10. Select the Windows 10 ISO image that will be downloaded.
11. Finally, to make a Windows USB drive installation media, click on the Start button.
Also Read: How to Install Windows 7 Without a Disc
Step 3: Install Windows
Finally, install Windows on Chromebook as shown in the below steps.
1. Now, insert the USB drive into the Chromebook to install Windows 10.
2. Turn On the Chromebook. Now, it will boot from the USB drive.
3. Connect either a USB mouse or a USB keyboard to your Chromebook. You can also connect both devices.
4. Now, Install Windows as you would on any other computer.
5. When the Windows installer restarts, remove the USB drive.
6. Finally, Restart your Chromebook. It will complete the setup by booting Windows from the internal drive of your Chromebook.
Also Read: How to Fix DHCP Lookup Failed Error in Chromebook
Pro Tip: Use Microsoft Office on Chromebook
Now that you know how to install Windows on a Chromebook from the above steps, if you only want to acquire the Office suite rather than changing the OS, this is the easiest option. Go through the steps below to use Microsoft Office on Chromebook.
Note: As mentioned, this method helps you in acquiring an office suite, so you will not be able to use other Windows 10 applications.
1. Go to the official Microsoft Office website.
2. Click on Sign in.
3. Here, you’ll be required to enter your Microsoft Account ID and Password.
4. On the left pane, select the application you want to use by clicking on it.
5. The official webpage of the application will be redirected. Here, you may begin utilizing the online application.
Also Read: How to Use Rufus to Create Windows to go USB Drive
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What differentiates a Chromebook from a traditional Windows notebook?
Ans: Chromebooks are a sort of cloud-based notebook that is intended for basic computer needs. The most significant distinction between a Chromebook and a regular Windows or Mac laptop is that a Chromebook runs on its own operating system, known as ChromeOS. As a result, Chromebooks are a subset of laptops; while all Chromebooks are laptops, not all laptops are Chromebooks.
Q2. Is Chrome OS different from Windows?
Ans: ChromeOS is the most user-friendly of all operating systems because it is built on the Chrome browser. It will work for anybody who has previously used Chrome to surf the web. There is no learning curve at all. It’s quite straightforward to use a Chromebook. To work on a Chromebook, you’ll need a stable Internet connection and a Google account.
Q3. Is it possible to attach a portable hard drive or a flash drive to a Chromebook?
Ans: Yes, most Chromebooks include standard connections such as USB and USB Type C. That, of course, is dependent on the maker. Many Chromebooks also include HDMI ports as well as card readers. Yes, a portable external hard drive or flash drive may be connected to it. Check for ports and connectors before you buy, just as you would with a regular laptop.
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We have now explained how to install Windows on a Chromebook as thoroughly as possible. In addition, we made presented all relevant facts and information that you should consider while installing Windows on a Chromebook. If you have any queries or suggestions, then feel free to drop them in the comments section.
Quick Links
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How Installing Windows Will Change Your Chromebook
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Download Windows and Prepare a Bootable USB
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Access Developer Mode and Install UEFI Firmware
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Run the Windows Installer on Your Chromebook
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Download Windows Drivers and Customize Your Setup
Summary
- Installing Windows on a Chromebook gives access to a wider range of applications, but beware of potential hardware limitations.
- Ensure that your Chromebook meets the necessary system requirements before attempting to download Windows.
- After installing Windows, make sure to install the necessary drivers to customize and optimize your setup.
Windows 10 is a versatile and powerful competitor to ChromeOS. While your Chromebook may not come packaged with Windows, you can still install the OS by following a simple process.
How Installing Windows Will Change Your Chromebook
Installing Windows on your Chromebook will free your device from the constraints of ChromeOS and give you access to the fantastically vast selection of Windows applications. Unfortunately, it’s not without drawbacks.
Windows is a demanding operating system, so you might find that your Chromebook’s previously sufficient hardware isn’t powerful enough to do much on Windows at all. Even after successfully creating what some refer to as a «Chrultrabook», you might end up preferring ChromeOS.
Be warned that you’ll need to get rid of Chrome OS unless you have two drives—dual booting ChromeOS & Windows on the same drive isn’t possible.
Before downloading Windows 10, you should also verify on chrome://system that your Chromebook has at least 20 GB of hard drive space, 2 GB of RAM, and 1 GHz of processing power, though more is advisable.
Downloading Windows on a Chromebook is risky, and reinstalling ChromeOS is complicated. Weigh up the potential risk to your Chromebook and your warranty and install Windows 10 with caution.
Download Windows and Prepare a Bootable USB
To install Windows on your Chromebook, you’ll need to download the official Windows 10 ISO file and prepare a bootable USB drive to run it. You should create this installer using a separate Windows or Linux device.
Although you can create bootable drives with the Chromebook Recovery Tool, this method seems to work best for Linux distributions. It typically doesn’t work with Windows ISOs and, worse yet, the Chromebook Recovery Utility puts USB drives in a read-only state that is frustrating to reverse. Instead, you should create a Windows 10 installer using Rufus or a similar program.
Access Developer Mode and Install UEFI Firmware
Once you’ve prepared a bootable USB, you’ll need to disable write protection on your Chromebook. The method you should use to do this depends on your Chromebook model, but you can determine it by checking the MrChromebox.tech wiki. Follow the advice provided in the link next to your specific Chromebook model.
Proceed to install the UEFI Firmware:
- Start by turning on developer mode.
- After logging in to your account, open the Developer Console (Ctrl + Alt + Refresh).
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Enter chronos as your localhost name, then enter this command:
cd; curl -LO mrchromebox.tech/firmware-util.sh && sudo bash firmware-util.sh -
Once the UEFI Flash window appears, enter 2 to select the Install/Update UEFI (Full ROM) Firmware option.
- Enter Y to confirm your selection, then enter U to confirm that you wish to install UEFI-compatible firmware.
Finally, a prompt will appear asking whether you wish to create a backup copy of your stock firmware. This is vital since it lets you return to ChromeOS if you decide a Chultrabook setup isn’t for you.
- Ensure that you’ve inserted a spare, separate USB drive.
- Confirm that you wish to flash the firmware .rom to your USB drive by entering the number beside it on the device list.
Once you’re finished installing the new UEFI firmware and backing up your old ChromeOS firmware, you’re ready to begin installing Windows on your Chromebook. You can also reverse the changes you made to disable write protection—for example, you can reinstall the write protect screw if your Chromebook has one.
Run the Windows Installer on Your Chromebook
Finally, you’re ready to install Windows.
- Shut down your Chromebook.
- Plug in your bootable Windows USB installer.
- Press the Power button to boot your Chromebook up again.
- Press the ESC key as soon as your Chromebook boots to access the BIOS.
- Navigate to the Boot Order settings and adjust the boot order so that your USB drive is the first boot device.
- Restart your Chromebook and wait for it to boot to the Windows installation menu. You’ll need to connect a USB keyboard or mouse to navigate through the installer.
Proceed through the Windows installer:
- Set your basic preferences and click Install now.
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You will be prompted to enter a product key. Select I don’t have a product key, then choose your desired version of Windows from the drop-down list.
- Select Custom: Install Windows only (advanced) when prompted to select an installation procedure. You can reorganize your partitions however you like, but it’s recommended to install Windows in the largest partition.
When your Chromebook restarts or goes back to the beginning of the installer, remove the USB installer and restart the device. If the installation was successful, your Chromebook should boot to the final Windows setup prompt.
Download Windows Drivers and Customize Your Setup
While you might be past the difficult stage of installing Windows on your Chromebook, you still have a few drivers to install before your new operating system is ready to use. The simplest method of finding the right drivers for your Chromebook involves Coolstar’s Chromebook Windows Installation helper.
The drivers that you’ll need to download are device-specific, so it’s advisable to trust the tutorials that Coolstar gives you. Beyond that, you can take basic steps to customize Windows 10 and install a few extra Windows customization applications if you aren’t happy with the basic options offered.
quick Answer
- Installation with USB: Create a bootable USB drive, enable Developer Mode, disable hardware write protection, flash firmware, and boot from the USB to install Windows 11.
- Installation without USB: Enable Developer Mode, activate Linux, install VirtualBox, download Windows 11 ISO, and create a virtual machine to install Windows 11.
Do you want to install Windows 11 on your Chromebook but don’t have a USB drive? No problem! This guide with show you an easy step-by-step process to install Windows 11 on a Chromebook without USB. Additionally, we’ll also see how to install it using a USB drive for those who have one available.
Disclaimer: Installing Windows 11 on a Chromebook may void your device’s warranty and could lead to potential data loss or hardware issues. We highly recommend you back up all essential data before proceeding. We at Droid Thunder will take no responsibility for any damages or issues. By following these instructions, you agree to proceed at your own risk.
Method 1: Install Windows 11 on Chromebook without USB
To get Windows 11 on your Chromebook without USB, we’ll use a virtual machine, thus bypassing the need for a USB drive. First, let’s go over the things you need to do to ensure that your Chromebook is ready for a smooth installation process.
What You’ll Need
- A compatible Chromebook: Not all models support Windows.
- A stable Internet connection: Needed to download files and drivers.
- Power Supply: Charge your Chromebook to avoid interruptions during installation.
- Backup Data: Save important data because the installation can cause data loss.
- Check Storage Space: Ensure your Chromebook has at least 64GB of free space.
- Chromebook should support KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine).
Related: Install Chrome OS and Dual Boot with Windows
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Ready to flash Windows OS on your Chromebook? Follow along as we walk you through the process, step by step.
Step 1. Enable Developer Mode
- Turn off your Chromebook.
- Press and hold the Esc + Refresh + Power shortcut keys to reboot into recovery mode.
- A message saying ‘Chrome OS is missing or damaged. Please insert a recovery USB stick SD card’ will appear.
- Press Ctrl + D to enable Developer Mode. Press Enter to confirm.
Step 2. Install Linux Environment
- Open Chromebook Settings.
- On the left side menu, click on Advanced and select Developers.
- Under Developers, find and turn on the Linux Development Environment.
Note: If you do not see the Linux option, it might be because your device does not support Linux apps.
- Click Next to start the Linux Development Environment setup.
- On the next screen, write a Username and set the disk size to 10 GB.
- Tap Install to start the Linux installation process.
- Upon completion, the Linux Terminal window will open on your screen.
- Now, type the following command in the Terminal window and hit Enter.
sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get install virtualbox -y
- This command will update your package list and install VirtualBox on your Chromebook.
Step 3: Download Windows 11 ISO
- Go to the official Microsoft Windows 11 ISO download page.
- Select the edition of Windows 11 you wish to install and confirm your choice.
- Choose the language and confirm it.
- Click the download link for the Windows 11 ISO file and save it to a known location in your Linux files.
Note: Make sure to move the downloaded ISO file to the Linux Files directory.
Step 4: Set Up Windows 11 in VirtualBox
- Open VirtualBox from your Linux apps.
- Click New to create a new virtual machine.
- Name your VM as Windows 11.
- Select Microsoft Windows for the type and Windows 11 for the version.
- Allocate RAM and CPU cores. Aim for at least 4GB (4096 MB) if your Chromebook can handle it without affecting performance.
- When asked for a hard disk, select Create a virtual hard disk now and follow the prompts to allocate disk space.
- Choose Create a virtual hard disk now.
- Click Next and select the recommended file type (VDI).
- Choose Dynamically Allocated.
- Set the size of the virtual hard disk (60 GB or more recommended).
- Click Create.
- Select your new virtual machine and click Settings.
- Go to the Storage section, click on the empty optical drive icon under Controller: IDE, and then click on the disk icon on the right to choose a disk file.
- Select the Windows 11 ISO file you downloaded earlier.
- Click OK to close the settings.
Related: Install Chrome OS Flex on Windows and Mac
Step 5: Install Windows 11 on Chromebook
- Start the Virtual Machine.
- Click Start to boot up the virtual machine, which will launch the Windows 11 installation process.
- Choose your language, time, and keyboard preferences, then click Next.
- Click Install now.
- If prompted, enter your Windows product key, or choose ‘I don’t have a product key’ to proceed.
- Select the version of Windows 11 you wish to install and accept the license terms.
- Choose Custom: Install Windows only (advanced) for the type of installation.
- Complete the rest of the Windows 11 installation.
Step 6: Configure Windows 11
Once the installation is complete, you can configure Windows 11 settings such as region, keyboard layout, and account setup.
With this guide, you’ve successfully installed Windows 11 on your Chromebook without a USB drive. This installation through VirtualBox offers a versatile way to get Windows applications running on your device while retaining Chrome OS functionality. Enjoy exploring Windows on your Chromebook!
Method 2: Install Windows 11 on Chromebook with USB
To run Windows 11 on your Chromebook with USB, we’ll use a bootable USB drive, which provides a straightforward and reliable method for installation. First, let’s go over the necessary steps to prepare your Chromebook and create a bootable USB drive for a smooth installation process.
What You’ll Need
- A Powerful Chromebook with an Intel or AMD x86-based processor.
- A USB drive with at least 16GB of storage.
- Stable Internet Connection
- A second computer with Windows to create a bootable USB.
- A Windows 11 installation ISO file.
- Rufus or a similar tool for creating a bootable USB
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Step 1. Enable Developer Mode
- Power off your Chromebook.
- Press Esc + Refresh + Power to enter Recovery Mode.
- Press Ctrl + D to turn on Developer Mode.
- Press Enter and wait for the system to reboot.
Step 2. Create a Bootable USB for Windows 11
- Download the Windows 11 ISO file.
- Create a bootable Windows 11 USB drive using Rufus.
Step 3. Configure Chromebook for Boot from USB
- Turn off your Chromebook.
- Press Esc + Refresh + Power to enter Recovery Mode.
- Press Ctrl + D to skip the OS verification.
- Press Ctrl + L to enter the BIOS setup.
- Change the boot order to prioritize the USB drive.
Step 4. Install Windows 11 on Chromebook with Bootable USB
With your Chromebook configured and the bootable USB ready, it is time to install Windows 11.
- Insert the USB drive into your Chromebook.
- Turn on the Chromebook and press any key when prompted to boot from USB.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows 11.
Bottom Line
Finally! This is how you can flash the Windows 11 Operating System on a Chromebook without USB and with USB. This process can give you access to various apps and features.
If you are stuck during installation, if your USB is not recognized, or if you are missing some drivers, then please comment below. We’re here to help you out.