Chromebooks are designed to update automatically. This means that as long as your device is connected to the internet, it will periodically check for updates and download them in the background without requiring your intervention. However, knowing how to check for and install updates yourself can be handy,especially if your Chromebook fails to update automatically or you are experiencing some issues.
Here's how to update your Chromebook manually to ensure your device is running at its best and enjoy all that the latest version of ChromeOS has to offer.
How to Check for Updates
Before getting into the how, make sure your Chromebook is connected to Wi-Fi (or Ethernet). Then follow these simple steps:
• Click the time in the bottom-right corner of your screen to open the system menu. Then, click the gear icon to open the Settings menu.
• In the Settings menu, scroll down and click About ChromeOS, located at the bottom of the left-hand sidebar.
• In the About ChromeOS section, you'll see the current version of your ChromeOS. Click the Check for updates button, and your Chromebook will start checking for any available updates.
• If a software update is available, your Chromebook will start downloading it automatically.
• Once the download is complete, you'll be prompted to restart your Chromebook to apply the update. Click Restart to update to complete the process.
Tips for a Smooth Update Process
To make the update process as smooth as possible, keep these things in mind:
Save your work: Before starting the update process, save any open documents or projects to avoid losing your progress.
Stay connected: Make sure that your Chromebook stays connected to Wi-Fi during the update process to avoid interruptions.
Keep your device charged: Before starting an update, make sure your Chromebook is plugged in or has sufficient battery life.
Troubleshooting Update Issues
While updating your Chromebook is usually straightforward, you may run into issues. If your Chromebook is having trouble downloading or installing an update, here’s what to try to fix the issue:
Check your internet connection: Ensure your Chromebook is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network. If your Chromebook is using your phone's mobile data, disconnect it and connect it to Wi-Fi or Ethernet instead.
Restart your device: A simple restart can sometimes resolve download issues. If the update seems stuck in progress, restart your Chromebook and try updating again.
Remove accessories: If you have any external devices or peripherals connected to your Chromebook, unplug them temporarily. This can eliminate potential conflicts and allow the update process to proceed.
Check version compatibility: Ensure your Chromebook model is still supported by Google and eligible for software updates.
Factory reset: As a last resort, you can perform a factory reset (powerwash) on your Chromebook. This will erase all data on the device, so be sure to back up important files to Google Drive or some other cloud storage service.
Keeping your Chromebook updated is crucial for maintaining its performance, security, and functionality. Equally important is addressing any issues you might face, such as a cracked screen, damaged charging port, missing keys, or failing battery.
The Repair Depot completes high-quality Chromebook repairs on these and other issues for both individuals and K-12 schools, and we can help you get your device(s) back to its optimal state. So, don’t wait — get a Chromebook repair estimate/quote today to start your repair process!
