Instructions for installing Windows programs and games on Chromebooks

With CrossOver for Chrome OS, users can not only easily install Android apps, but also Windows software on Chromebooks in the blink of an eye.

CrossOver is a famous emulator application. It simplifies the process of using WINE to run Windows programs on Mac or Linux. Now, Codeweavers has brought CrossOver to Google Play to meet the needs of Chrome OS users.

Of course, you need to download and install this application onto Chromebooks with Intel processors. Then follow the instructions below.

How to install CrossOver for Chrome OS

1. Go to Profile Picture> Settings> Menu> Google Play Store
2. Click Turn On if it is not already enabled
3. Open Play Store on a Chromebook
4. Download CrossOver for Chrome OS from the Google Play Store

Prepare to install the Windows program

CrossOver will automatically fetch and install some Windows software for you. But with most software, you first need to download the offline installation of the desired program.

Whether it is Microsoft Office , Adobe Photoshop , even a small program like IrfanView, must download the full offline installation file on its site. If you don't see it, try searching on the Standalone Offline Installers page.

Save the installation file in an easy-to-find location on your Chromebook, such as the Downloads folder.

Instructions for installing the Windows program on Chromebooks

1. Run CrossOver for Chrome OS .
2. In the Search Applications box , start typing the desired program name, CrossOver will suggest the name. Click Install on the file you want to install to activate this process.
3. Depending on the program, CrossOver will get the correct online file to install.
4. Proceed with the installation steps like any other Windows program.
5. Do not change the destination directory because Chrome OS does not have any directories such as " C: \ Program Files \ Paint.NET ". Therefore, replacing the saved folder often causes errors in CrossOver.
6. Finally, you should see Installation Finished when the entire installation process is complete. However, do not open the program, even if you get suggestions.

Apply these simple steps to games and software, but remember that not all. As mentioned at the beginning, it is best to download the file to install offline. In this case, the process will be slightly different.

1. Run CrossOver for Chrome OS .
2. In the Search Applications box , start typing the desired program name, click Install if CrossOver knows the name, or click Install Unlisted Application when CrossOver suggests.
3. Name the program you are about to install and click Select Installer .
4. In the next screen, go to the folder to store the offline installation file on the hard drive. CrossOver lists all Windows installation files in that directory, finds the desired program, and then click Install.
5. Proceed with the installation steps as usual, and do not change the destination directory.
6. Finally, you should see Installation Finished when the whole process is finished. Remember not to open the software even after receiving the prompt.

Run Windows programs on Chromebooks

1. Once you have installed this program, close and restart CrossOver for Chrome OS .
2. You will see new programs in Installed Apps. Click on a program, you will see two options: Manage Program , Launch Program (manage or open the program).
3. Click Launch Program to start and use the Windows program as the Chrome application.

How to uninstall Windows program on CrossOver

1. To uninstall a program, go to Installed Apps , click on the program, and then select Manage Program .
2. Click the gear icon (Settings) , then click Uninstall in the drop down option.

What programs can CrossOver for Chromebook run?

CrossOver for Chrome OS is still in beta, so some features may not work as advertised. Even complete, remember, you are essentially running Wine on a virtualized Windows environment. Therefore, programs still have the same interface and function as Windows software.

Here is a list of some software that can run on Chromebooks:

• Notepad
• Filezilla
• GIMP
• TrackMania Nations Forever
• Audacity

This article is tested on Asus Chromebook Flip C302. Most applications that encounter problems require Microsoft's .NET framework. Avoid these software if possible.

Currently, CrossOver for Chrome OS is completely free. So don't be afraid to download and try your favorite Windows apps on your Chromebook.

CrossOver for Chrome OS