How to Set Up a Google Chromebook

Last Updated: February 16, 2021

Chromebooks are unique laptops that runs on Google’s ChromeOS, an operating system centered around Google’s Chrome browser. Setting the device up is easy and requires only a few minutes. To begin, make sure that your Wi-Fi network is functioning.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Inserting the Battery

1
Take the battery out of the packaging. Out of the box, some Chromebooks have their battery detached from their body and in a separate plastic bag. Simply take the battery out of the box and remove the plastic bag. If your Chromebook's battery comes preinstalled, you can skip this part.
2
Insert the battery into the Chromebook. Do this by sliding the battery, with its pins facing toward the laptop, into the battery compartment in the rear of the computer.

Part 2

Part 2 of 3:

Turning On the Chromebook

1
Plug the Chromebook into a power source. Grab the supplied power cable and plug it into the charging port located on one of the sides of the Chromebook. Plug the other end into a wall outlet.
- A Chromebook's charging port is generally a circle slightly smaller than the audio jack.
2
Turn on the Chromebook. Do this by pressing and holding the power button, which is located at the top right corner of or above the keyboard, until the computer powers on.
- The first time a Chromebook is turned on, you will be directed to its Connect screen to begin setup.

Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Setting Up Your Chromebook

1
Choose your language settings. You can do this by selecting the language in the Connect screen that comes out.
2
Connect to your Wi-Fi network. Select your network’s name from the options and input the password if applicable.
3
Accept the Terms of Agreement by clicking “Accept.” You Chromebook will download any required system updates after connecting to the network.
4
Sign into your Google account. A Google account is necessary for you to use the Chromebook’s features to the max. Log in using your username and password in the Sign In box that appears.
- This account will be set as the owner, so make sure your primary account is the one you use to log in.
5
Add an account picture. This picture will represent the account on the main Sign In screen. You have the option to take a picture or choose an icon.
- You can take a picture with the Chromebook’s built-in camera.
6
Go through the Get Started app. This will show you around your new Chromebook and introduce you to the various controls and options you can tweak.
- Once the tour of your Chromebook has ended, you can begin using your new laptop.

Community Q&A

Question

Can I take pictures using Chromebook?

Community Answer

Yes, most Chromebooks have built in cameras. You simply turn on the camera by clicking on it and use it like any other camera or camera on a smartphone.
Question

How do I get a password for a new Chromebook?

Community Answer

You can set up a Chromebook by going to 'settings,' going to 'Users' and then clicking on 'require password to wake from sleep.'
Question

What is the device name for my Chromebook?

Community Answer

Chromebooks don't have device names like Windows. If you need to identify the Chromebook in a network, you can use the MAC address.