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Naqeeb Hossain

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Apr 9, 2025, 11:54:57 AMApr 9
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Why am I unable to set up Linux? Is it because I am on a managed Chromebook or is it that I have too many files and other stuff eating up my space. Or is it both?

Pax,
Naqeeb

Mike Frysinger

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Apr 9, 2025, 12:00:35 PMApr 9
to Naqeeb Hossain, chromium-hterm
this is more a CrOS question.  yes, the Terminal app is used to launch things, but policies & internal VM management & such are outside Terminal scope.

you prob want to start with the help forums like:

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Keith I Myers

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Apr 9, 2025, 12:09:09 PMApr 9
to Naqeeb Hossain, chromium-hterm
This would not be the group for that but Linux is not supported on most managed devices 

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Keith Dickey

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Apr 9, 2025, 12:34:41 PMApr 9
to Keith I Myers, Naqeeb Hossain, chromium-hterm

It's likely one of the two reasons you mentioned, or a combination of both, that's preventing you from setting up Linux on your Chromebook:
1. Managed Chromebook:
* This is the most probable reason. When a Chromebook is managed by an organization (like a school or workplace), the administrator has control over various settings and features. They can disable the Linux (Beta) feature entirely. This is a common restriction in managed environments to maintain security and control over the devices.
* How to check: Look for any indication that your Chromebook is managed. This might include a specific logo on the login screen, a message saying "Managed by [Organization Name]" in the Settings app (usually under "About ChromeOS" or "Device"), or restrictions on other developer-related features.
* Solution: If your Chromebook is managed, you will likely not be able to enable Linux unless the administrator changes the policy. You'll need to contact your IT department or the administrator for assistance or clarification.
2. Insufficient Storage Space:
* Linux on ChromeOS requires a significant amount of free disk space to install the necessary components and run Linux applications. If your Chromebook's storage is nearly full, the setup process might fail or not even start.
* How to check:
   * Open the Settings app on your Chromebook.
   * Go to Storage.
   * Check the "Available" space. You'll need several gigabytes (at least 5-10 GB is recommended, possibly more depending on what you plan to do with Linux) of free space to proceed.
* Solution:
   * Free up space: Delete unnecessary files, uninstall unused Android apps and web apps, and consider moving large files (like videos and photos) to an external storage device (like a USB drive or SD card) or a cloud storage service.
   * Check the minimum requirements: Ensure your Chromebook model meets the minimum storage requirements for Linux (Beta). Some older or low-end Chromebooks might have very limited storage that makes running Linux impractical.
Other Less Likely Possibilities:
* Chromebook Model Incompatibility: While most modern Chromebooks support Linux (Beta), some older or very specific models might not. You can check the official ChromeOS documentation or search online for your specific Chromebook model to see if it's compatible with Linux.
* Temporary Glitches: Occasionally, there might be a temporary software glitch preventing the setup. A simple restart of your Chromebook might resolve this.
In summary, the fact that you are on a managed Chromebook is the more probable reason why you cannot set up Linux. Check your Chromebook's settings for any indication of management. If it's not managed, then insufficient storage space is the next most likely culprit. Freeing up space might allow you to proceed with the Linux setup.


Naqeeb Hossain

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Apr 9, 2025, 5:23:58 PMApr 9
to chromium-hterm, keithala...@gmail.com, Naqeeb Hossain, chromium-hterm, keithiok...@gmail.com
Thanks a lot!

-Naqeeb

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