How to set up a new Chromebook or Chromebox

by Edward Harper June 11, 2024

Chromebooks are great devices. They have a lower price and are easier to use than Microsoft Windows PCs and Apple Macs. They work great for most tasks, from browsing Amazon to answering an email in Gmail, due to the simplicity of the ChromeOS operating system. The Best Chromebooks from manufacturers like Samsung have premium features, such as built-in fingerprint sensors or 4k displays. Before using these features, you must sign in and get your device going. You can complete the process in minutes.

How to set up your Chromebook

When you open the box for the first time, make sure your new device is fully charged. Take everything out of the box and plug in your device for its first full charge. While you wait, familiarize yourself with your Chromebook and Google's ChromeOS operating system.

After your device is fully charged:

Open the lid of your Chromebook. It turns on automatically. If it doesn't, press the power button in the upper-right corner of your keyboard.
After the device loads, activate or decline ChromeVox, ChromeOS's built-in screen reader. This feature helps you set up your Chromebook if you are visually impaired.
Tap the Get started button in the lower-left corner of the welcome screen.
Choose a Wi-Fi network and sign in to it if necessary.
Select You if an adult will be using the Chromebook or A child if a child will be using the Chromebook and click the Next button. If you select A child, this initiates the Chromebook parental controls setup process.
Enter the email or phone number associated with your Google Account and tap Next. If you don't have a Google Account, click the More options button at the bottom, then click the Create new account button to create a Google Account.
Type the password for your Google Account and click the Next button. If you activated two-step verification, verify your login on another device.
Review the Chromebook Terms and conditions. These settings include sending diagnostic and usage data, backing up Android apps to Google Drive, and using your location for Android apps and services. Toggle off the items you don't want to accept and tap the Accept and continue button.
The next screen tells you about Chromebook syncing. To review these settings after you're done setting it up, check the Review sync options following setup checkbox and tap the Accept and continue button.
Set up Google Assistant if you haven't set it up on another device. Tap No thanks if you don't want to. This step is skipped if Google Assistant is set up on another device.
Tap I agree to give Google Assistant access to your screen context for tailored results. If you don't want to activate this feature, tap No, thanks.
Tap I agree if you want to say "Hey Google" to activate the Google Assistant. You can skip this setup by tapping No, thanks.
Decide what device theming you would like and tap the Next button.
Decide if you want to receive tips, offers, and updates and share feedback about Chromebooks. If not, switch off the toggle.
Tap the Get started button to go to your desktop.

Now that you've gone through these steps, your Chromebook is set up and ready to go. These instructions are for ChromeOS Version 108.0.5359.111, so your steps may vary from what is listed.

How to back up your Chromebook

Chromebooks mostly live online, but it's good to back up your data every now and then

Updates and other tweaks for your new Chromebook

An HP Chromebook x2 11 sitting on a table in front of a window with amusement part decorations on the table next to it© Provided by Android Police

After doing the initial setup for your new laptop, do a couple of things before surfing the web. If you want to review any settings during setup, those pop up after the computer goes to the desktop.

Open the Play Store, set it up on your device, and download and update any apps you want to use on your Chromebook.
Open a Google Chrome Browser window and download and set up any extensions you'd like to use.

Next steps for your new Chromebook

Now that you've set up your new Chromebook, there's plenty to do to make your experience the best it can be.

Fix problems that arise on your device

Like every computing device, issues pop up. Chromebooks include a Diagnostics app that can help you diagnose the problem.

Reset your device if needed

Sometimes, an issue may be so severe you need to reset your device. A reset can also speed up your device by getting rid of unnecessary files. Resetting, or Powerwashing, a Chromebook is easy and can be done whether you're logged in or not.

Back up your important files

Whether resetting your device or making sure your files are secure, it's always a good idea to back up your Chromebook.

The USB-C, USB-A, 3.5mm and microSD ports on the Lenovo Chromebook Plus Flex 5i© Provided by Android Police

Speed up your productivity with keyboard shortcuts

ChromeOS includes many handy keyboard shortcuts to speed up common things you do on your Chromebook. Some are more useful than others, but they cover several tasks, from editing text to moving and sizing windows.

Take screenshots and record your screen

Whether you're sharing something cool on your device or trying to get support, being able to take a picture or record a video of what's happening on your screen is helpful. Chromebooks include a handy screen recording tool to help you do this without a third-party service.

Use Chromebooks offline

Most people think Chromebooks can only be used with an internet connection since ChromeOS is based on the Chrome browser. Chromebooks can be used offline by setting up a couple of services.

Take advantage of Android apps

A benefit of Chromebooks is that they can use Android apps from the Google Play Store. The best Android apps add functionality to your Chromebook and fill in gaps from ChromeOS.

Play your favorite Android games

In addition to Android apps, you can play Android games on your Chromebook.

An Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 on a black table outside being used by a person with a purple shirt and headphones on© Provided by Android Police

Personalize your Chromebook experience

Like Android smartphones, Chromebooks allow you to personalize the look and feel of your device. Access the Personalization Hub to modify these settings.

Discover all the Chromebook possibilities

Whether you're a student or a professional, Chromebooks are great devices to get things done. Setting up your Chromebook properly is important to make sure you get the best experience. In addition to the suggestions above, check out these nifty ChromeOS tips and tricks to make the most of your Chromebook.

How to set up a new Chromebook or Chromebox