Run Windows on Chromebook: A Guide to Install Windows on Chrome OS

How to install Windows on a Chromebook

Google Chromebooks are a great choice for traditional PC settings, but some users may miss out on the appearance and feel of a Windows device. If you are a reliable Chromebook user and want a Microsoft operating system experience, you're lucky enough to install Windows 11 or 10 on a ChromeBook easily, using several simple devices and with just a little patience. However, this process consists of several steps, so we thought it would be best to write this guide to teach you how to install Windows on a Chromebook safely and correctly.

Realated article: How to Transfer Windows 10 Desktop Settings to New PC?

Before Downloading Windows on Chromebook

Installing Windows 11 or 10 on a Chromebook is difficult, and the results may eventually be bad. Otherwise, manufacturers will have to select specific components to work with small operating systems and mainstream Google networks. Most of them have no more than 64GB of space and about 4GB of memory and no specific graphics chips.

Furthermore, Google and Microsoft do not support the operation of Windows 11 or 10 operating systems on Chromebook hardware, which means you may not find Microsoft-certified drivers and have to rely on possible third-party solutions.

However, the most important problem with running Windows 10 on a Chromebook was the installation of Microsoft's platform. Most Chrombooks have an anti-writing screw that could not install the operating system. If you want to install Windows 10 in your computer, you need to remove the cover below. Remove the screws from the main panel and then update the software.

Finally, your Chromebook may not have the hardware that supports Windows 11 or 10 if you want to check whether your chromebook is working. Check out the CoolStar list.

For this reason, if you do not want to completely shut down your Chromebook, then the options we listed below in this article should always be considered.

If you still want to learn how to install Windows on a Chromebook, please continue reading.

How to install Windows 11 on a Chromebook

Our guide provides instructions on how to install Windows 11 on a Chromebook, however, since Windows 11 has a larger download volume and operating system than Windows 10. You need to make sure your Chrombook can handle the latest version of Windows OS. You need to make sure that your Chromebook has at least 64GB of internal storage.

Related article: [3 Ways] How to Increase C Drive Space in Windows 11?

Besides, you still need to use a Chrombook with Intel processors and Linux support since installing Windows 11 requires QEMU and Virtual Device Manager. Finally, you need to make sure that there is a second PC running Windows, a USB flash drive and a USB keyboard and mouse. If your Chromebook meets all of these requirements, you can start the download and installation process of Windows 11.

Step 1: First, you’ll need to put your Chromebook in Developer mode. To do so, press the Esc + Refresh + Power buttons at the same time. Then click Enable Debugging Features.

Step 2: Press Ctrl + Alt + T keys to open your Chromebook’s terminal. Then type the following prompt:

“sudo apt-get install qemu”. After you’ve entered the above, click Enter.

Step 3: Open up the terminal again, and type this final prompt: “sudo apt-get install virt-manager,” followed by Enter.

Step 4: On your Windows computer, launch a browser and head to Microsoft’s Windows 11 download page.

Step 5: Insert your USB flash drive, then open the Windows 11 download file and click Accept.

Step 6: Click Create Installation Media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC. Then click Next.

Step 7: Click Use the recommended options for this PC, then click Next.

Step 8: Click USB flash drive, then click Next. Once the upload is complete, click Finish.

Step 9: Now it’s time to head back to your Chromebook computer. Boot up the Virtual Machine Manager by heading into the terminal and pressing Ctrl + Alt + T keys. Then type “virt-manager” and click Enter.

Step 10: Click Create New Virtual Machine > Local Install Media. Then select your Windows 11 install file.

Step 11: Choose how much RAM and storage your Windows 11 virtual machine will need. Ideally, you should allocate about 8GB of RAM to the virtualization, but 4GB may work just fine. As for internal storage, your Chromebook should have 64GB available.

Related article: Upgrade RAM or SSD: Which’ s Better?

Step 12: Click Begin Installation. Once you’re finished, you’ll be able to boot up Windows 11 on your Chromebook via the Virtual Machine Manager.

Download AOMEI Partition Assistant on Your Windows

After install Windows on Chromebook, don't forget to download AOMEI Partition Assistant. This is a professional disk manager that dedicate to tap into the disk potential and manage partitions efficiently. If you want to unlock more advanced features, you can also upgrade to its Professional edition.

1. Partition Management: AOMEI Partition Assistant enables you to resize, move, merge, and delete partitions with ease. You can also convert partition types, align partitions like 4K Alignment for SSD to enhance system performance, and create new partitions without losing data.

1. Disk Partitioning: The software allows you to create, delete, and format partitions, as well as convert between MBR and GPT partition styles, which is particularly useful for newer UEFI-based systems.

2. Disk Cloning: If you are planning to upgrade to a better disk, you can also use it to clone your entire disk or a designated partition. With it, you can quickly transfer the data to the new disk without reinstalling Windows or applications.

3. Disk Cleanup and Drive Space Expansion: The software can even help you clean up accumulated and hidden junk files, including temporary files, cache, and system restoration points, freeing up storage space on your computer.

Conclusion

Installing Windows 11 on your Chromebook may not be an easy task, but you can use the right tools and patience to follow our steps, and you can enjoy the experience of Microsoft's operating system on ChromeBook. However, it should be noted the limitations and possible risks of this process, including hardware compatibility issues and the need for third-party solutions, so you could use tools such as AOMEI Partition Assistant to improve the management and performance of drives on Chromebooks installed on Windows.

FAQs

1. Can I install Windows on any Chromebook? - No, not all Chromebooks support Windows installation.
2. What are the risks involved? - Potential hardware compatibility issues and voiding warranties.
3. Will installing Windows void my warranty? - Possibly, check with your manufacturer.
4. How much storage and RAM do I need? - At least 64GB of storage and 4GB of RAM.
5. Any alternatives? - Consider other options if unsure about the process. It's better to download AOMEI Partition Assistant to help you solve any potential problems.