Install ChromeOS Flex on an old PC or Mac

ChromeOS Flex is a free version of ChromeOS from Google for existing PCs and Macs, and it can give an older computer a regularly updated system. The steps cover the requirements, the backup, the USB installer, trying it first, and installing.

What ChromeOS Flex is, and is not

Flex is not the same as the ChromeOS on a Chromebook. Google lists several differences:

• Android apps and Google Play are not supported.
• You cannot run it alongside another system (no dual boot).
• It has no Google security chip, so some hardware-backed security features are missing.
• Google only promises support for models on its certified list. Other computers may work, but with no assurance.

It receives updates about every four weeks. Compare that with what you have now: if you are on Windows 10, see Windows 10 end of support: what to do for all your options.

What you need

Google says Intel and AMD processors from 2012 or earlier are not recommended or supported, and Nvidia graphics from 2014 or earlier are unlikely to work. Check your model against Google's certified list on the ChromeOS Flex help site. You also need a second working computer with the Chrome browser to make the installer, and Flex is not supported on a Chromebook that has passed its update date.

Make the USB installer

Do this on a Windows PC, Mac or Chromebook that has the Chrome browser.

1. In Chrome, add the Chromebook Recovery Utility extension from the Chrome Web Store. Make sure it is turned on in the extension settings.
2. Open the extension and select Get started.
3. Select Select a model from a list.
4. For manufacturer, choose Google ChromeOS Flex. For product, choose ChromeOS Flex. Select Continue.
5. Insert the USB drive, choose it from the list, and select Continue.
6. Select Create now. The percentage shown may look odd while it runs; Google says that is normal.
7. When the utility reports the recovery media is ready, remove the USB drive.

Start the old computer from the USB drive

1. Turn the computer fully off (not asleep), plug in the USB drive, and press the power button.
2. Press the boot menu key repeatedly as soon as it starts. Google lists F12 for Dell and Lenovo, F9 for HP, F2 for Acer, Del for ASUS, and holding the Option key for a Mac. For other makers try Esc, F1 to F12 or Enter. Keys vary by model, so read the first screen or the manual.
3. Choose the USB drive from the list and press Enter.

Try it, then install

1. When the Start using ChromeOS Flex screen appears, select Try it first. Google recommends this only for temporary testing, and it does not get automatic updates.
2. Connect to Wi-Fi and check the screen, keyboard, touchpad, sound and camera.
3. If everything you need works, start again from the USB drive, choose the install option and follow the prompts. The old system and its data are erased and cannot be recovered, even if the install fails.
4. When it finishes, remove the USB drive and sign in with your Google Account.

Check that it worked

The computer should start into ChromeOS Flex without the USB drive. Then open Settings and look for updates; see How to update ChromeOS. Apps are installed from the Chrome Web Store and the web, not from Google Play. If you later want Windows back, Google provides no uninstall steps; you reinstall another system with its own instructions, for example a clean Windows 11 install if the computer qualifies.

Frequently asked questions