How to Check and Install ChromeOS Updates

How ChromeOS updates work

ChromeOS is designed to be self-updating. According to Google's Auto Update policy, ChromeOS devices receive automatic updates that enhance both the device and its software. These updates are applied across the operating system, browser, and hardware. They bring new features, security patches, and performance improvements, and they depend on non-Google hardware and software providers that work with Google to provide stability support.

Your Chromebook automatically checks for updates and downloads them when it connects to the internet. This happens in the background, so you don't have to initiate it. When an update has been downloaded, you'll see a notification in the bottom-right corner. To finish installing, you must restart your Chromebook. The entire process is designed to be seamless, but knowing how to check manually can help you resolve issues or force an update.

For more on how updates affect other aspects of your device, see our guide on ChromeOS security features.

Find your current ChromeOS version

To see the exact version of ChromeOS on your device, open the Settings app. You can do this by selecting the time in the bottom-right corner (near the date) and then clicking the gear icon. In the left sidebar, scroll down and select 'About ChromeOS.' The version number appears under the heading 'Google ChromeOS.'

The version string looks like a series of numbers and letters, for example '15755.77.0'. This is the official version. To see more details, such as the update schedule and the Auto Update Expiration (AUE) date, select 'Additional details' next to the version. This is also where you can find the hardware platform and other system information.

Knowing your version can help you troubleshoot issues and understand whether you're receiving the latest feature set. If you're considering a different device, you might want to compare consumer versus business Chromebooks to see which update policies apply.

Manually check for updates

While updates are automatic, you can manually check for updates. This is useful if you suspect an update is pending but hasn't downloaded, or if you want to force a download after a connection issue. Follow these steps:

• Connect your Chromebook to Wi-Fi. If you're using mobile data, you might be prompted about data usage.
• Open Settings by selecting the time in the bottom-right of the screen.
• Select 'About ChromeOS' from the left sidebar.
• Under 'Google ChromeOS,' click 'Check for updates.'

What to do when an update is pending

When your Chromebook has downloaded an update, a notification appears in the bottom-right corner, next to the date, labeled 'Update device.' Select 'Restart' to apply the update. Your Chromebook will restart and finish installing the new version. It's a good idea to save any open files and close apps before restarting.

For managed devices, you might see one of two notifications: blue (recommended) or orange (required). In both cases, you should restart to keep your device secure and functional. If you ignore the notification, the update may apply later automatically, but it's best to restart when you can.

If your Chromebook is no longer receiving updates

Older Chromebooks eventually stop receiving updates when the hardware can no longer support the latest versions. According to Google's Auto Update policy, ChromeOS devices receive 10 years of updates from the platform release date. Models released before 2021 may have extended updates, but not all features are guaranteed.

If your device is no longer supported, you may see a message like 'This device will no longer receive software updates. You can continue using your computer but should consider upgrading.' To check the exact date, go to Settings > About ChromeOS > Additional details and look under 'Update schedule.'

Continuing to use an unsupported Chromebook is possible, but it won't receive security patches, leaving it more vulnerable. It also won't get the latest features or compatibility fixes. If you're in this situation, it's a good time to consider a new device. Our budget Chromebook guide offers affordable options that still receive updates, and you can also review the ChromeOS upgrade eligibility to understand what to look for.

If you're thinking about buying a used or refurbished model, check its AUE date first. Our article on refurbished versus new Chromebooks provides guidance on what to inspect.

Updates on managed Chromebooks

If your Chromebook is managed by a school or business, the update process may differ. You might see 'Updates are managed by your administrator' in the About ChromeOS page. In this case, you cannot manually check for updates; the admin controls when and how updates are applied. This ensures that devices across the organization stay consistent and secure.

For business environments, ChromeOS Enterprise Upgrade provides remote device management, which includes overseeing updates. Administrators can enforce update policies, schedule maintenance windows, and even roll back updates if needed. For employees or students, contact your IT department for assistance.

If you're comparing devices for business use, our best Chromebooks for business guide includes models that work well with enterprise management.

Troubleshooting update problems

Sometimes updates don't download or fail to install. According to the official help page, you can try a few steps: restart your Chromebook, turn it off and on again, or switch to a different network (like Wi-Fi or Ethernet instead of mobile data). If the problem persists, you can reset your Chromebook without deleting personal files, or in more serious cases, recover the device using a recovery USB.

Before trying advanced steps, make sure you have a stable internet connection. If you're on a metered connection, the update might pause. You can also check if there's a pending update by following the manual check steps.

If your Chromebook is several versions behind, it may take longer to download and install. Some updates require a restart, and you may need to restart multiple times if there are several updates queued.

For more detailed repair steps, see our article on troubleshooting ChromeOS missing or damaged.

What to pick for your use

Questions

How do I know if my Chromebook is up to date?

Go to Settings > About ChromeOS. Under 'Google ChromeOS,' you'll see the current version. If there's no 'Check for updates' button, your device is already up to date.

Why do I need to restart my Chromebook to finish an update?

The update is downloaded in the background, but the new version is applied at restart. Restarting ensures the update is installed correctly and that all changes take effect.

Can I use my Chromebook while an update is downloading?

Yes, you can continue using your Chromebook during the download. However, you'll need to restart to finish the installation. The download may slow down if you're using a lot of bandwidth.

What if my Chromebook says 'Updates are managed by your administrator'?

This means your device is managed by a school or business. You cannot manually check for updates; the administrator controls the update schedule. Contact your IT administrator for assistance.

What happens if my Chromebook is no longer supported?

It will stop receiving automatic updates. You may see a message when you try to update. You can continue using the device, but it may not get security patches, leaving it vulnerable. It's recommended to upgrade to a newer model for ongoing protection.

How often does ChromeOS update?

Google typically releases a new version of ChromeOS every four weeks, with security updates in between. Your Chromebook will automatically download and install these updates as they become available, depending on your device's support window.