ChromeOS Flex is Google’s fast, secure, cloud-first operating system for Macs and PCs. This system is designed to refresh older devices and increase their performance for more efficient usage.
Downloading and installing Google ChromeOS Flex is easy, and when you work with a certified Google partner, you’ll have support every step of the way.
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About ChromeOS Flex
ChromeOS Flex is a secure, cloud-first, fast operating system for Macs and PCs that is a sustainable way to modernize your devices. ChromeOS Flex is easy to deploy across a fleet of devices or to try out on a single device to see what a cloud-first OS has to offer.
With ChromeOS Flex, you can experience modern computing, even on a dated device. Key benefits of this upgrade include:
- Proactive Security - Chrome Enterprise upgrades utilize sandboxing technology to eliminate the need for antivirus software and has IT controls to prevent data loss or stolen devices.
- Fast Deployment - You can deploy ChromeOS Flex across your fleet via USB or network deployment, and cloud profiles sync settings almost immediately. Plus, you can easily manage devices through the Google Admin console and configure device policies remotely.
- Modern Work Experience - With ChromeOS Flex and Chrome Enterprise upgrades, devices boot quickly, don’t slow down over time, and update in the background every four weeks. Your team will experience fast access to VDI and web apps with an intuitive, clutter-free interface.
- Maximizing Hardware - ChromeOS Flex allows you to refresh older devices with a modern OS and extend their lifespan to reduce e-waste.
ChromeOS Flex System Requirements
In order to download and install ChromeOS Flex, you must have certified device models. Google regularly tests, maintains, and certifies ChromeOS Flex features and functionality on many individual models.
To ensure your devices are certified, visit Google’s certified models list here: Certified models list - ChromeOS Flex Help (google.com). This list is regularly updated to provide the most relevant, accurate information.
How to Download ChromeOS Flex
There are two methods for downloading ChromeOS Flex: the trial method and the direct ISO BIN file download. Note that when you work with a certified Google partner such as Promevo, they can assist you through the downloading process and ensure your devices and data are secure when you download ChromeOS Flex.
Method 1: The Trial Method
ChromeOS Flex allows live boot by running the OS directly from your USB device without installing it. The live boot option preserves your device’s data and OS, so you can test ChromeOS Flex before installing. Note that Google recommends you fully install ChromeOS Flex instead of using live boot because live booting has performance and storage limitations and doesn’t support automatic updates or enrollment for management.
To perform the trial method, get the device you booted using the USB installer:
- On the Welcome to ChromeOS Flex screen, click “Get started.”
- On the Start Using ChromeOS Flex screen, click “Try it first.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
- Sign in to the device.
Method 2: Direct ISO BIN File Download
If you want to install ChromeOS Flex from an ISO or BIN file, you can do so in a few simple steps:
- Create the USB installer. The device you use to create your installer can differ from the device you plan to install ChromeOS Flex on. The installer is where you will download ISO files.
- Then, install Chromebook Recovery Utility by opening the Chrome browser, going to the Chrome web store, and at the top right, click “Add to Chrome.” Then, when prompted, click “Add extension.”
- Once the Chrome Recovery Utility is installed, launch the Chrome Recovery Utility extension in the Chrome browser. Then, click “Get started,” click “Select a model from a list,” and for “Select a manufacturer,” find and click “Google ChromeOS Flex.” For “Select a product,” find and click “ChromeOS Flex,” and click “Continue.”
- You’ll be prompted to insert your USB drive and click “Create now.” When you get a message that your recovery media is ready, remove your USB drive from the device.
How to Install ChromeOS Flex
Once you have your USB installer ready, you can use it to boot the device(s) you want to run ChromeOS Flex on by following these steps:
- Turn off the device you want to run ChromeOS Flex on.
- Insert the ChromeOS Flex USB installer into your USB port.
- Boot the device from the USB drive by pressing the power button and repeatedly pressing your boot key.
- Select your USB installer as the boot device using:
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- One-time boot Menu - If your interrupt triggers a one-time boot menu, you’ll see a list of boot options on your screen. Use arrow keys or a mouse to select your USB installer.
- BIOS or UEFI Menu - If your interrupt triggers a BIOS of UEFI menu, you’ll need to find settings related to Boot or Startup. Then follow the instructions to set your USB installer as the first, primary, or preferred boot device.
- Other Menu - If you see other options on the screen, navigate to an option that matches one of the above mentioned menus, then follow the steps listed.
Who Should Use ChromeOS Flex?
ChromeOS Flex is an excellent option for teams looking to extend the lifespan of their existing hardware, reduce e-waste, and easily try modern computing with a cloud-based management system — without making a new device purchase. This OS allows teams to benefit from a fast and clutter-free work experience using the hardware they already have. If you’re unsure if ChromeOS Flex is right for your organization, the experts at Promevo can help.
Why Promevo?
Promevo is a trusted Google partner specializing in helping our clients on their Google journey. Whether you’re considering adding ChromeOS devices to your team or you want to explore ChromeOS Flex, we’re here for you. With Promevo, you’ll receive end-to-end support and save time and money with hardware, licensing, centralized billing, management, cloud modernization services, and more. Browse our selection of ChromeOS devices today, or contact our experts to start the conversation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install ChromeOS Flex on my laptop?
ChromeOS Flex is a cloud-first operating system for PCs or Macs. View a list of compatible ChromeOS Flex devices here: Certified models list - ChromeOS Flex Help (google.com)
Does ChromeOS Flex require additional software?
ChromeOS Flex may require additional software to install the operating system depending on the device. This can either be additional disk-burning software or partitioning software.
