When you enable developer mode on your Chromebook, you can do things like install a full Linux system to add dual-boot capabilities, install Android apk apps from developers, and side-load programs.

How To Enable Developer Mode on a Chromebook

Step 1) Start by booting your Chromebook into Recovery Mode. Start by turning off your Chromebook.

Step 2) Press and hold the Esc and Refresh keys, then press and hold the Power key. The refresh key is usually the third key on your Chromebook’s keyboard on the upper left. It’s located in the same spot as the F3 key on a standard keyboard.

Step 3) You should get a message that says, “Please insert a recovery USB stick,” when in Recovery mode.

“Chrome OS is missing or damaged,” says the Recovery screen on some older devices. Don’t be concerned. It’s perfectly natural.

Step 4) At the Recovery screen, press Ctrl+D. This instruction is not displayed anywhere on the Recovery mode display. This is done on purpose to prevent people from tampering with it and turning it on without realizing it.

Step 5) You should see a popup that says “Press ENTER to toggle OS Verification OFF.” Your computer will restart, and all of your local files will be erased.” It implies that unless your Chromebook is in developer mode, the OS will not perform a system file integrity check before launching. Chrome OS normally validates itself before booting and refuses to boot if any of its critical system files are modified by the user. If spyware or other malware is installed on your machine, this is a protective tool that ensures your data is protected. Enter the code with the Enter key.

Step 6) When you boot your Chromebook, you’ll notice “OS verification is OFF.” It will beep to gain attention if there is no activity for a few seconds. Your Chromebook will enter developer mode if you press Ctrl+D. Even before the irritating sound, you may push the keys.

It may take a few moments for your Chromebook to prepare for usage once you enable developer mode for the first time.

Step 7) When the process is finished, your Chromebook will reboot into Recovery mode automatically. To continue, press Ctrl+D.

Step 8) Now you’ll see the welcome screen.

Step 9) This step is optional, however it is required if you want to enable USB device booting and other functionality.

Conclusion

That concludes the procedure for turning on developer mode on your Chromebook. The procedure entails entering Recovery mode and restarting your Chromebook. You can now do whatever you want with your Chromebook.

To open a terminal window and enter the root shell, use Ctrl+Alt+T while on the desktop. It’s all yours at this point!

Keep in mind that with greater access comes greater accountability. Please double-check what you’re doing so you don’t end up destroying system files.