How to uninstall linux apps on Chromebook?

With the increasing popularity of Chromebooks and the rising demand for alternative operating systems, many users have turned to Linux apps for a more versatile and customizable experience on their Chromebooks.

However, there may come a time when you need to uninstall these apps for various reasons. In this article, we will  guide you on how to uninstall Linux apps on your Chromebook.

Why do you need to uninstall the Linux apps?

Before we dive into the process of uninstalling Linux apps, let’s first understand why you might need to do so. Some possible reasons could be:

• You no longer have a use for the app
• The app is not functioning properly or causing issues with your Chromebook
• You want to free up storage space on your device

Whatever your reasons may be, the good news is that uninstalling Linux apps on Chromebook is a straightforward process. So let’s get started!

5 secure ways to Uninstall Linux Apps on Chromebook:

To uninstall linux apps on your Chromebook, you can use any of the following methods:

1. Uninstall from the Launcher:

The simplest and most common way to uninstall a Linux app on your Chromebook is by using the Launcher. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Launcher by clicking on the circle icon in the bottom left corner of your screen.
2. Locate the Linux app you want to uninstall.
3. Right-click on its icon and select “Uninstall” from the drop-down menu.
4. Confirm the action by clicking on “Uninstall” in the pop-up window.
5. The app will be uninstalled, and its icon will disappear from the Launcher.

2. Uninstall using Terminal:

For those who are more comfortable with command-line interfaces, you can also uninstall Linux apps using the Terminal. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Linux Terminal on your Chromebook.
2. Type in the command “sudo apt-get remove [app name]” without the quotes and hit enter.
3. Enter your password when prompted (it will not show up on the screen for security purposes).
4. Confirm the action by pressing “Y” and then enter.
5. The app will be uninstalled from your Chromebook.

3. Uninstall from the Settings:

Another way to uninstall Linux apps on Chromebook is through the Settings menu. Follow these steps:

1. Go to the “Settings” menu by clicking on the gear icon in your Launcher.
2. Click on “Apps” from the left-hand side menu and select “Linux Apps.”
3. Locate the app you want to uninstall and click on its name.
4. Click on “Uninstall” and confirm the action.
5. The app will be uninstalled from your Chromebook.

4. Uninstall using Google Drive:

If you have installed a Linux app via the Google Drive, you can also uninstall it from there. Follow these steps:

1. Open your Google Drive and locate the Linux app.
2. Right-click on the app and select “Remove.”
3. Confirm the action by clicking on “Remove” again in the pop-up window.
4. The app will be uninstalled from your Chromebook.

5. Uninstall using Crostini:

If you have enabled Crostini on your Chromebook, you can also uninstall Linux apps using it. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Crostini Terminal on your Chromebook.
2. Type in the command “apt remove [app name]” without the quotes and hit enter.
3. Confirm the action by pressing “Y” and then enter.
4. The app will be uninstalled from your Chromebook.

Troubleshooting Common Issues during Uninstallation

While uninstalling Linux apps on Chromebook is a straightforward process, you may encounter some common issues along the way. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you solve them:

• If you encounter an error while uninstalling a Linux app, try restarting your Chromebook and then attempt the process again.
• If the app still won’t uninstall, you can use the Terminal to force the removal by typing in “sudo dpkg –remove [package name]” and hitting enter.
• If you are unable to uninstall a specific app, try using one of the alternative methods mentioned earlier (e.g., installing from the Chrome Web Store instead of using the Terminal).

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a more versatile experience or need access to specific software, Linux apps offer a great solution for Chromebook users.

Now that you know how to install and uninstall Linux apps on your Chromebook, you can take full advantage of these versatile and powerful tools.

So go ahead and explore the vast world of Linux apps on your Chromebook! This concludes our guide on how to uninstall linux apps on chromebook. We hope you found this article helpful in understanding the process and troubleshooting any potential issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are Linux files on Chromebook?

Linux files on Chromebook refer to the Linux operating system and any apps that have been installed using one of the available methods mentioned above. These files are stored separately from Chrome OS files and can only be accessed through the Linux Terminal or File Manager.

What happens if you turn on Linux on Chromebook?

Turning on Linux on your Chromebook enables you to install and use Linux apps, giving you access to a wider range of software options. It also allows for more customization and offline functionality.

How do I delete all Linux files on Chromebook?

To delete all Linux files on your Chromebook, you can use the “rm -rf” command in Terminal. This will forcefully remove all files and folders associated with Linux.

Is it possible to reinstall a previously uninstalled Linux app?

Yes, you can reinstall a previously uninstalled Linux app by following the same steps used for initial installation. However, if you encounter any issues, you may need to first remove any remaining files from the previous installation before reinstalling.

Does installing Linux delete everything on Chromebook?

No, installing Linux does not delete anything on your Chromebook. It simply adds a new operating system that you can use alongside Chrome OS.

However, if you decide to remove Linux completely, it will also remove any apps or files associated with it.  So be sure to back up any important data before uninstalling.

Can I install and run Windows programs on my Chromebook using Linux?

No, you cannot install and run Windows programs on a Chromebook using Linux. While there are some compatibility tools available, they are not always reliable or supported by all apps.

It is recommended to use native Linux or web-based alternatives for your desired programs instead.

However, it is possible to run Windows programs on a Chromebook through virtualization software like CrossOver or by enabling Windows 10 on your Chromebook.

Is it safe to install Linux apps on my Chromebook?

Yes, it is generally safe to install Linux apps on your Chromebook. However, as with any software installation, it is important to only download and install from trusted sources to avoid potential security risks.