Why does Google force you to use Linux apps in a VM on ChromeOS?

Posted by JoshAtticus on Sunday October 23, 2022 @10:22PM
from the self-post dept.

I don't understand why we need a VM, isn't ChromeOS based on Linux?

( 4 comments | 2 points | on HN )

Re:Why does Google force you to use Linux apps in a VM on Ch... by mdwalters on Sunday October 23, 2022 @10:28PM (#33312383)

to make it secure

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Why does Google force you to use Linux apps in a VM on Ch... by 2Gkashmiri on Monday October 24, 2022 @02:22AM (#33313503)

security from what? why do we assume "hackers" are out there loking for furry porn in your machine and you need absolute security/drm/attestation to prove you are using only approved software?

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Why does Google force you to use Linux apps in a VM on Ch... by gregjor on Monday October 24, 2022 @04:54AM (#33314329)

Not from hackers. From code running under Linux that could infect or break ChromeOS. Once you install Linux you can install any arbitrary code, thus the VM.

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Why does Google force you to use Linux apps in a VM on Ch... by gregjor on Monday October 24, 2022 @04:50AM (#33314306)

Google explains the reason here:

https://chromium.googlesource.com/chromiumos/docs/+/1792b43f...

tl;dr Isolating Linux and any arbitrary code running under Linux protects ChromeOS.

[ Parent | on HN ]