Chromebooks are great for light browsing, streaming, and school work — but if you need full Windows apps, gaming support, or offline productivity tools, installing Windows 11 might be the upgrade you’re looking for.
But here’s the thing: Chromebooks are not designed to run Windows out of the box. That means installing Windows 11 takes a few extra steps — like enabling Developer Mode, modifying firmware, and using a bootable USB drive. Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through everything step by step.
Important Disclaimer Before You Start
Before we dive in, there are some important things to note:
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This process will erase everything on your Chromebook — so back up your files first.
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Some Chromebooks don’t support Windows due to hardware limitations.
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You may lose access to certain Chrome OS features like verified boot or automatic updates.
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This process is more advanced than a normal Windows installation — proceed carefully.
What You’ll Need
Before starting, make sure you have:
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A compatible Chromebook (Intel-based Chromebooks work best).
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A second computer (Windows, Mac, or Linux) to create the installation USB.
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A USB drive (8GB or larger) for the Windows 11 installer.
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A keyboard and mouse (some Chromebook touchpads may not work right away).
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An active internet connection (for downloading drivers and updates).
Step 1: Check If Your Chromebook Can Run Windows 11
Not all Chromebooks are capable of running Windows 11. Here’s what to check:
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Processor: Intel (Core i3, i5, i7) models work best. ARM-based Chromebooks cannot run Windows.
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Storage: At least 64GB of internal storage.
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RAM: Minimum 4GB, 8GB recommended for smooth performance.
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UEFI Support: Some models require custom firmware to boot Windows.
You can check your Chromebook model by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T, typing shell, and running:
Then look up your model online to confirm Windows compatibility.
Step 2: Enable Developer Mode
Developer Mode is required to install anything outside Chrome OS.
Steps:
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Press Esc + Refresh + Power together to reboot into Recovery Mode.
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When you see the recovery screen, press Ctrl + D.
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Press Enter to confirm.
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Your Chromebook will reboot and wipe all data.
Step 3: Install Custom Firmware (If Needed)
Most Chromebooks need modified firmware to boot Windows.
Steps:
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After Developer Mode is enabled, press Ctrl + Alt + T to open the terminal.
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Type
shelland hit Enter. -
Run the firmware utility script:
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Select the option to Install/Update UEFI Firmware.
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Follow the on-screen instructions carefully.
This step will allow your Chromebook to boot from a USB drive like a regular PC.
Step 4: Create a Bootable Windows 11 USB
You need a Windows 11 installer to install the OS.
Steps:
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On your secondary computer, download the Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft’s official website.
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Download and install Rufus (free tool).
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Open Rufus, select your USB drive, choose the Windows 11 ISO, and click Start.
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Once done, safely eject the USB.
Step 5: Boot Chromebook from USB
Now, it’s time to start the Windows installation.
Steps:
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Insert the bootable USB drive into your Chromebook.
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Power on the Chromebook and press Esc (or the key your firmware uses) to open the boot menu.
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Select your USB drive.
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The Windows installer will load.
Step 6: Install Windows 11
Follow the standard Windows setup process:
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Choose your language and click Install now.
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Enter a product key (or skip for now).
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Select the Custom: Install Windows only option.
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Delete all existing partitions and create a new one.
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Select the new partition and click Next.
Windows will now install on your Chromebook.
Step 7: Install Chromebook Drivers
After installation, you may notice some hardware (like Wi-Fi or touchpad) not working.
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Download Chromebook-specific Windows drivers from CoolStar’s website.
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Install drivers for:
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Touchpad
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Keyboard
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Wi-Fi
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Audio
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This will restore full functionality.
Step 8: Activate and Update Windows 11
Finally, activate Windows and install updates:
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Go to Settings > System > Activation to activate with a valid license.
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Go to Settings > Windows Update and install the latest updates and drivers.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
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Black screen after installation: Try reinstalling the UEFI firmware.
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No Wi-Fi: Make sure you installed the correct drivers for your Chromebook model.
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Low storage space: Use an external SSD or upgrade your internal storage if supported.
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Touchpad not working: Connect a USB mouse temporarily to finish setup.
Conclusion
Installing Windows 11 on a Chromebook isn’t as simple as on a regular PC, but with the right steps, it’s absolutely possible. By enabling Developer Mode, flashing custom firmware, and using a bootable USB, you can turn your Chromebook into a fully functional Windows laptop.
Just remember: this process voids certain Chrome OS features, so make sure this is what you really want before you proceed.
FAQs
Q1: Can I dual-boot Chrome OS and Windows 11 on a Chromebook?
A: Dual-booting is possible on some models, but it’s more complicated and not officially supported by Google.
Q2: Will this work on ARM-based Chromebooks?
A: No, Windows 11 only runs on x86/x64 processors (Intel/AMD).
Q3: Can I go back to Chrome OS after installing Windows?
A: Yes, you can reinstall Chrome OS using a Chromebook Recovery USB created with the Chromebook Recovery Utility.
Q4: Do I need to buy a Windows license key?
A: You can install Windows 11 without a key, but you’ll need a valid license to activate it and unlock personalization options.
Q5: Will installing Windows slow down my Chromebook?
A: Performance depends on your Chromebook’s specs. Intel i5/i7 models run Windows 11 smoothly, but entry-level Chromebooks may struggle.