Two tech enthusiasts independently transformed aging Chromebooks into functional Linux servers last week, demonstrating how decade-old hardware can find new life as smart home controllers. Both projects required removing ChromeOS and installing lightweight Linux distributions, with one user creating a Home Assistant hub and another building an RSS feed aggregator.
The How-To Geek project used a 2015 Samsung Chromebook 3 with minimal specs: 16GB storage, 4GB RAM, and a dual-core Celeron processor maxing at 1.6GHz. The MakeUseOf project employed an ASUS C423N Chromebook, though specific hardware details weren't disclosed. Both devices had reached obsolescence for their original purposes but proved adequate for server workloads.
Converting ChromeOS devices requires disabling write protection, a process that varies by model. The Samsung Chromebook needed physical screw removal, while the ASUS model required battery cable disconnection or a SuzyQ cable. MrChromebox.tech scripts provided essential automation for both installations, with iFixit offering more approachable guides for general conversions.
DietPi emerged as the preferred Linux distribution for the server project, selected for its Debian base and low-resource optimization. The smart hub project chose Ubuntu for its user-friendliness, then ran Home Assistant OS through Oracle VirtualBox. Both installations booted successfully from USB drives despite concerns about legacy hardware compatibility.
Network connectivity presented challenges for both projects. The Samsung Chromebook lacked an Ethernet port, requiring a $10 TP-Link USB-to-Ethernet adapter for reliable wired connections. Chromebook keyboards also proved problematic with non-standard labeling, prompting recommendations for external keyboards during setup.
The How-To Geek project installed FreshRSS for feed aggregation, reporting interface performance comparable to a Raspberry Pi 4. The MakeUseOf project focused on Home Assistant for smart home automation, specifically targeting laundry machine notifications through vibration sensors. Both implementations ran smoothly on the repurposed hardware.
Storage limitations remain the primary constraint for Chromebook conversions. The 16GB Samsung device forces careful software selection, while the ASUS model's capacity wasn't specified but likely faces similar constraints. External storage solutions or cloud integration become necessary for expanded functionality.
Power management presents ongoing challenges. The Samsung project struggles with screen power consumption since closing the lid doesn't disable the display. Both projects require continuous operation for server functionality, raising questions about long-term energy efficiency compared to dedicated hardware.
The conversions demonstrate cost-effective alternatives to commercial smart home hubs. Many Zigbee-capable hubs cost $50-150, while Chromebooks often accumulate unused in closets. The projects also provide Linux learning opportunities, with both users reporting positive first impressions of Ubuntu's speed and usability.
Market context shows Chromebooks gaining traction, particularly among students seeking affordable computing. Samsung holds premium positioning in the Chromebook market, with its Galaxy Chromebook Plus recently discounted $150 to $599.99 at Best Buy through post-holiday sales.
Technical documentation from MrChromebox.tech proves essential for successful conversions, offering model-specific guidance for write protection removal and UEFI bootloader installation. Community resources on Home Assistant forums and YouTube tutorials provide additional support for Linux newcomers.
Both projects highlight the environmental benefits of hardware repurposing. Rather than contributing to e-waste, decade-old Chromebooks can serve specialized functions for years beyond their intended lifespan. The conversions also offer privacy advantages over cloud-dependent smart home solutions.
Future developments could include expanded storage through external drives or network-attached storage. More ambitious projects might incorporate additional services like media servers, VPN endpoints, or network monitoring tools. The success of these conversions suggests broader potential for Chromebook repurposing.
The projects concluded successfully despite initial concerns about hardware compatibility. Both users reported satisfaction with their functional servers and smart hubs, demonstrating that with proper research and preparation, even obsolete Chromebooks can deliver modern utility.
