Tech Reference

How to update your Chromebook to get the latest features and keep it secure

Man holding Chromebook
It's a good idea to update your Chromebook regularly. Konstantin Savusia/Shutterstock
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Keeping your computer's operating system up to date is a great way to make sure that you're getting the most secure version of the OS. 

And if you're the type to repeatedly click "Remind me later," it's good to know that it's easy to catch up with updates on your Chromebook. 

Here's everything you need to know about updating your Chromebook.

How to update a Chromebook

Before you try to check for updates, be sure that your Chromebook is connected to Wi-Fi. 

Once that's done, here's what you'll need to do to both check for updates and install available updates:

1. Click the time, located in the bottom-right corner of the screen, to open a menu.

2. Click on the gear icon to open the Settings menu.

1 HOW TO UPDATE CHROMEBOOK
The gear icon is at the top of this small menu.  Devon Delfino/Business Insider

3. In the left sidebar, select "About Chrome OS."

Screenshot of Chromebook Settings "About Chrome OS" button
Open the Chrome OS page.  Devon Delfino

4. If there's an update in progress, you'll see the option to restart your Chromebook once it's complete. 

5. If it's not currently updating, click "Check for Updates" — if one is available, it will automatically download onto your Chromebook.

3 HOW TO UPDATE CHROMEBOOK
You'll be able to update and restart your computer right from this page.  Devon Delfino/Business Insider

If you're using your phone's internet for your Chromebook, you'll also get an alert about how much data the update will use.

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Devon Delfino is a Brooklyn-based freelance journalist specializing in personal finance, culture, politics, and identity. Her work has been featured in publications such as The Los Angeles Times, Teen Vogue, Business Insider, and CNBC. Follow her on Twitter at @devondelfino.