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What is Chrome OS Flex? Is Chrome OS Flex Free?

Summary: This 2-3 minute blog explains Google’s innovative Chrome OS Flex that can update operating systems and turn old PCs into Chromebooks. Contact GEEKAID Computer and Network Support, the IT experts, at https://www.geek-aid.com/ to discuss the state of your current PC and explore options for updating or replacing it.

Nobody Likes To Throw Out An Old Computer

Sometimes it seems as if by the time one gets comfortable with their computer and has everything set up in a way that’s right for them, it is outdated, incompatible with some apps, running slowly and on its way out. IT experts proclaim that an eight-year-old computer is like a 30-year-old car.

The Chrome Flex Operating System Offers An Alternative

Google’s development team has come up with a promising new way to “refresh” old Windows and Mac hardware with their release of Chrome OS Flex. Chrome OS Flex replaces the operating system on older machines and turns them into Chromebooks for free. This option could be particularly good news for the millions of users with PCs operating with Windows 10, which will be “retired” by 2025. At the moment, Google states that Chrome OS Flex is still unstable, but they offer “early access” to users who’d like to try it rather than buy new hardware. From a marketing position, Chrome OS Flex is an ingenious offering and a great way to introduce consumers to the benefits of using Chromebooks and how they operate.

When Google purchased CloudReady in late 2020, it began to offer the CloudReady OS as a way to turn old PCs into Chromebooks. The release of Chrome OS Flex is positioned as “early access” to an upgraded successor to CloudReady. Also, Google is transparent about the fact Chrome OS Flex is unstable and they are still working on it

Many users hold onto their old computers for far too long. Some users might adapt them for limited purposes or use them for parts when they get old. What’s cool about Chrome OS Flex is that it does not work as a “virtual” OS; instead, it completely replaces Windows, Mac iOS, and all of their files.

The challenge for Google and Chrome OS Flex is compatibility with the plethora of computer hardware available. Even though Google has posted a list of certified models https://support.google.com/chromeosflex/answer/11513094?hl=en, including PCs and Macs, with the blunt disclaimer that users “might run into minor issues” and adds, “This operating system is still in early access on the dev channel—you may experience some instability,”

Is Chrome OS Flex Worth Trying?

If you are one step away from throwing out your old PC and have the time, there’s no reason not to try it. You may lose some functionality, but if it works for you, it might be a great backup computer or one reserved for narrow, designated tasks. Warning: If your old PC is your only machine and you need it daily, you should consider waiting until you have a new PC to try Chrome OS Flex on your old one.

Business IT Services – Residential IT Support

Unfortunately, many users don’t always recognize the risks of DIY computer repair and maintenance. Whether you work from a company office or remotely from your home office, it is essential to know when it is time to engage the assistance of professional IT Consulting Services. IT professionals can assess all aspects of your computer system and network, recommend solutions and keep your system running smoothly from the start. A modest investment in professional IT assistance is a smart way to protect computers, networks, mobile devices and all your data while freeing up your time to concentrate on more substantial business or personal tasks.

GEEK-AID® Computer and Network Support provides world-class IT consulting services and specializes in customized network design and support, computer repairs, installations, updates, and maintenance for homes and small to midsized businesses. GEEK-AID®'s team of experts is comprised of top specialists in different areas of IT services, serving clients on-site and remotely for Macs, PCs and all your connected devices, including new ones that are part of the ever-expanding IoT. They can answer all your IT questions, from “Is it worth it to try installing Chrome OS Flex?” to “When do I need to upgrade my company’s hardware?” More importantly, when your home or business computer goes down, they will perform on-site computer repairs if required. And the GEEK-AID® team doesn't clock out at five o'clock on Friday. They are available to you 24/7, remotely or in person, to ensure your computers, network and data stay up-to-date, healthy and secure. As your business grows, expands its network and adds more devices such as smart controls, smart devices, wireless access and remote access, your network's cybercrime vulnerability and need for cyber security will grow, too. In addition to maintaining the hardware, software and security, employee training and regular IT support should be ongoing. New users and devices will require additional training to use those devices efficiently and securely. Inter-related concerns include hardware and software installation and maintenance, repair, cyber security and network protection. These concerns must be addressed consistently and proactively to best support the seamless operation of your system, minimizing costly and time-consuming mistakes.

Call (877) GEEK-AID (877-433-5243) to discuss how they can secure, install, upgrade, repair and maintain your home or SMB computer network and all its devices.