Can You Install Windows on Your Chromebook?
Neither Google nor Microsoft officially support Windows for Chromebooks. Development of Google’s Project Campfire, which would have allowed Chromebooks to run both Windows and Chrome OS, was suspended in 2019. Therefore, the only way to run Windows on a Chromebook it to hack your device. A developer named CoolStar has made a Windows for Chromebook Installation Helper where you can enter your device’s model and find the drivers you need to install Windows. Before you begin, use this tool to determine if your Chromebook is capable of running Windows. There’s also a list of all Windows components compatible with Chromebooks. The site is frequently updated, so check back if something ever stops working.
What You Need to Install Windows on a Chromebook
In addition to new drivers and other software components, you will need the following items to complete the process:
A PC running Windows 8 or Windows 10 A small screw driver Two USB flash drives A USB keyboard A USB mouse
You do not need a Windows 10 product key to set up Windows on a Chromebook. While Microsoft will pester you to purchase one, there are very few restrictions on unregistered versions of Windows 10. For example, some of the personalization settings are limited, but there are still workarounds that allow you to customize your desktop. You should only spend the extra money on a product key if you run into a task that you can’t do for free.
How to Install Windows on a Chromebook
To install Windows, you must first replace your Chromebook’s BIOS, which are write-protected by a physical screw in the motherboard: When your Chromebook restarts, you can finally connect to a network. Windows will walk you through the final steps of the setup process, and you will have a fully functional Windows 10 laptop. The Chromebook trackpad and keyboard should work now, so you can disconnect your external keyboard and mouse. Some keys have been remapped; for example, the Search key will serve as the Windows key.
Limitations of Windows on Chromebook
Most Chromebooks come with limited storage space and RAM, so you probably won’t be able to run resource-intensive software like PC games. Nonetheless, you should be able to use any Windows 10 application provided your machine meets the minimum technical specifications. You should have no problem running Windows on high-end Chromebooks like the Google Pixelbook, but cheaper models may be more restricted. Unfortunately, there’s no way to run both Chrome OS and Windows on the same device at the same time. If you ever want Chrome OS back, you must create a recovery drive using the Chromebook Recovery Utility.
