A Chromebook™ is a laptop that runs ChromeOS™, Google’s operating system built around the Chrome™ browser. Instead of installing traditional desktop software, you work mostly in web apps and Android™ apps, and your files sync to cloud storage. Chromebooks start up fast, update themselves automatically, and include built-in virus protection, which makes them popular with students, families, and schools.
In this Chromebook glossary, we explain how ChromeOS works, which apps a Chromebook runs, how Chromebook storage works, and how a Chromebook compares to a Windows laptop. We also cover Chromebook security, gaming, and what Google’s new Googlebook platform means for Chromebook owners. For more laptop terms, visit our laptop glossary.
What Is ChromeOS?
ChromeOS is the operating system that runs on every Chromebook. It is a lightweight, Linux-based system designed around the Chrome browser, Google apps, and your Google account. Because ChromeOS needs fewer system resources than Windows, Chromebooks can run smoothly on modest processors, memory, and storage.
How ChromeOS works on a Chromebook
- Account-based setup: You sign in with a Google account, and your bookmarks, settings, and files sync automatically
- Browser-first design: Most apps open in the Chrome browser or as installed web apps
- Quick startup: Most Chromebooks boot in seconds and wake from sleep almost instantly
- Shared-device friendly: Multiple people can sign in to one Chromebook with separate accounts and files
Chromebook automatic updates
ChromeOS updates itself in the background and finishes the update when you restart. Each update covers the operating system, the browser, and security fixes. Under Google’s Auto Update policy, ChromeOS devices receive 10 years of updates from the date their hardware platform was released.
Every Chromebook model has an end-of-updates date, sometimes called its Auto Update Expiration (AUE) date. You can find the AUE date in Settings > About ChromeOS > Additional details. Checking the AUE date before you buy tells you how long that Chromebook will receive security updates.
Chromebook vs. Chromebook Plus laptops
Chromebook Plus is a Google program for Chromebooks that meet higher minimum specs for the processor, memory, storage, display, and webcam. Chromebook Plus models also include extra Google AI and productivity features. Choose a Chromebook Plus laptop if you multitask often, edit photos, or take a lot of video calls.
What Googlebook means for Chromebook owners
Google introduced Googlebook in 2026 as a new laptop category running Googlebook OS, which combines ChromeOS with the Android platform. Current Chromebooks keep receiving updates through their supported lifetime. According to Google’s Googlebook transition FAQ, ChromeOS devices will get regular updates and security patches through mid-2034, and many newer Chromebooks will be eligible to move to Googlebook OS.
Chromebook Apps: Web Apps, Android Apps, and Linux Apps
Chromebooks run four kinds of software: web apps, Android apps from the Google Play™ store, Chrome extensions, and Linux apps. Chromebooks do not run traditional Windows desktop programs, such as .exe installers. Most popular tools, including email, office suites, video calls, and streaming services, have a web or Android version that works on a Chromebook.
| Chromebook app type | What it is | Common examples | Works offline? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Web app | A program that runs in the Chrome browser or installs as its own window | Google Docs, Microsoft 365 for the web, video-call apps | Some, when offline mode is turned on |
| Android app | A mobile app from Google Play that runs in a resizable window | Note-taking, drawing, photo editing, and casual games | Many |
| Chrome extension | A small add-on that adds features to the browser | Password managers, grammar checkers, ad blockers | Varies |
| Linux app | A desktop app installed through the optional Linux development environment | Code editors and programming tools | Yes |
What is a web app?
A web app is software that runs through a web browser instead of being installed from a disc or download. Many web apps can be installed as progressive web apps (PWAs), which open in their own window and appear in the Chromebook app launcher. Web apps update automatically, so you always have the latest version. Learn more in our cloud software glossary.
Using a Chromebook offline
A Chromebook still works without an internet connection, but some features are limited. You can write and edit in Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides after turning on offline access. You can also read downloaded files, watch downloaded videos, and use many Android apps offline. Tasks that depend on the cloud, like streaming and web browsing, need Wi-Fi.
Can a Chromebook run Windows software?
No, a Chromebook cannot run Windows programs natively. If you rely on specific Windows software for work or school, such as advanced accounting, engineering, or video editing programs, a Windows laptop is a better fit. Compare the options in our operating systems glossary.
Chromebook Storage and Cloud Storage
Chromebooks store most files in the cloud through Google Drive™ and keep a smaller amount of storage on the device itself. Every Google account includes 15GB of free cloud storage shared across Google Drive, Gmail™, and Google Photos™. Because files live online, you can open them from any device and recover them if the Chromebook is lost or damaged.
Local storage vs. cloud storage on a Chromebook
| Local storage | Cloud storage | |
|---|---|---|
| Where files live | On the Chromebook’s built-in eMMC or SSD drive | On Google’s servers, synced to your account |
| Typical capacity | 64GB to 256GB on most models | 15GB free, with paid plans for more |
| Needs internet? | No | Yes, to sync and open files not saved offline |
| Best for | Downloads, offline files, Android apps, and Linux apps | Documents, photos, backups, and sharing |
The Chromebook Files app shows both locations in one place, so you can drag files between local storage and Google Drive.
How much storage does a Chromebook need?
For web browsing, schoolwork, and streaming, 64GB to 128GB of local storage is enough for most people. Choose 128GB or 256GB if you plan to install many Android apps, use the Linux environment, or keep large files offline. Learn more about storage types in our laptop memory and storage glossary.
Adding storage to a Chromebook
You can add storage with a USB flash drive, an external SSD, or a microSD card on models with a card reader. Most Chromebook drives are soldered to the motherboard and cannot be upgraded. See our external storage glossary for options that work with Chromebooks.
Chromebook vs. Laptop
A Chromebook is a type of laptop, but it runs ChromeOS instead of Windows. A Chromebook is simpler, often more affordable, and built for web apps and cloud storage. A Windows laptop runs a much wider range of desktop software, games, and professional tools, and usually has more local storage.
| Feature | Chromebook | Windows laptop |
|---|---|---|
| Operating system | ChromeOS | Windows 11 |
| Software | Web apps, Android apps, Linux apps | Windows desktop programs, web apps, Microsoft Store apps |
| Local storage | Usually 64GB to 256GB | Usually 256GB to 1TB SSD or more |
| Offline use | Limited to offline-ready apps and files | Full use of installed programs |
| Updates | Automatic, with a published end-of-updates date | Automatic Windows Update, managed by the user or IT team |
| Built-in malware protection | Sandboxing and verified boot | Microsoft Defender Antivirus and Windows Security |
| PC gaming | Android and cloud gaming | Full PC game library on gaming models |
| Best for | Students, schools, shared family use, web-based work | Business software, creative work, gaming, and advanced multitasking |
Who should choose a Chromebook?
A Chromebook is a good choice if most of your day happens in a browser. Students, families sharing one device, and people who mainly email, stream, and write documents often find a Chromebook simple and easy to manage. Our student laptops glossary covers what to look for in a school laptop.
Who should choose a Windows laptop?
A Windows laptop is a better choice if you need specific desktop programs, play PC games, or edit photos and video. Business users who rely on company software and IT tools also benefit from Windows. Learn more in our laptop comparisons glossary, or shop Windows laptops.
2-in-1 Chromebooks
Some Chromebooks are also 2-in-1 laptops. The HP Chromebook x360 has a 360-degree hinge and a touch screen, so it folds into tablet mode for Android apps, drawing, and note-taking. Read our 2-in-1 laptop glossary to compare convertible and detachable designs, or browse all HP Chromebooks.
Chromebook Security
Chromebooks are built with several layers of security, so most people do not need to install separate antivirus software. ChromeOS isolates apps from each other, checks itself for tampering at every startup, and installs security updates automatically. These protections make Chromebooks a common choice for schools and shared devices.
Built-in Chromebook security features
| Security feature | What it does |
|---|---|
| Automatic updates | Installs the latest security fixes in the background without user action |
| Sandboxing | Runs each web page and app in its own restricted space, so one infected tab cannot reach the rest of the system |
| Verified boot | Checks the operating system every time the Chromebook starts, and repairs it if it detects tampering or corruption |
| Data encryption | Encrypts each user’s files stored on the Chromebook |
| Guest mode | Lets someone browse without seeing your files, accounts, or history |
| Powerwash | Resets the Chromebook to factory settings and erases local data |
Google notes in its Auto Update policy that even a Chromebook past its final update still runs a self-check at startup. However, a Chromebook without current updates no longer receives new security fixes, so plan to replace it after its end-of-updates date.
Does a Chromebook need antivirus?
No, a Chromebook does not need traditional antivirus software for ChromeOS itself. Sandboxing, verified boot, and automatic updates handle most threats. You should still watch for phishing emails, fake websites, and untrusted browser extensions or Android apps. Our security software glossary explains how these threats work.
Chromebook security tips
- Keep the Chromebook updated and restart it when an update is ready
- Install extensions and Android apps only from trusted developers
- Turn on 2-step verification for your Google account
- Lock the screen when you step away
- Use Powerwash before you sell, donate, or recycle a Chromebook
For more ways to protect any laptop, including theft protection and secure disposal, visit our laptop security and safety glossary.
Gaming on a Chromebook
You can game on a Chromebook through Android games, browser games, and cloud gaming services. Most Chromebooks use integrated graphics and modest processors, so they cannot run demanding PC games locally. Cloud gaming is the best way to play AAA titles on a Chromebook, because the game runs on remote servers and streams to your screen.
Ways to play games on a Chromebook
| Gaming option | How it works | Best for | What you need |
|---|---|---|---|
| Android games | Games downloaded from Google Play and run on the Chromebook | Casual, puzzle, and mobile games | Enough local storage; a touch screen helps |
| Browser games | Games that run inside the Chrome browser | Quick, lightweight games | An internet connection for most titles |
| Cloud gaming | Games run on remote servers and stream to the Chromebook | Console and PC titles without local hardware limits | A fast, stable connection and a game subscription |
| Linux games | Games installed through the Linux development environment | Advanced users and older or lightweight titles | Setup skills; performance is limited |
Google ended its Steam® for Chromebook beta on January 1, 2026, so Steam is no longer a supported option on ChromeOS. Learn how streaming services, subscriptions, and cross-play work in our cloud gaming glossary.
Tips for cloud gaming on a Chromebook
- Use a fast, low-latency internet connection, ideally Wi-Fi 6 or a wired Ethernet adapter
- Sit close to the router to reduce lag
- Pair a Bluetooth® or USB game controller for console-style games
- Choose a Chromebook with a higher refresh rate display if you play fast-paced games
Our gaming networking glossary explains latency, ping, and how to improve your connection.
When to choose a gaming laptop instead
If you want to install and play PC games locally, a gaming laptop with a dedicated GPU is the better choice. HP Victus and HyperX OMEN gaming laptops run the full Windows game library without depending on your internet speed. See our gaming laptop glossary, or shop HP gaming laptops.
Chromebook FAQs
What is the difference between a Chromebook and a laptop?
A Chromebook is a laptop that runs Google’s ChromeOS instead of Windows. A Chromebook relies mainly on web apps, Android apps, and cloud storage, while a Windows laptop runs traditional desktop programs and usually has more local storage.
Can a Chromebook run Microsoft Word and Excel?
Yes, a Chromebook can run Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint through Microsoft 365 for the web in the Chrome browser. The full Windows desktop versions of Microsoft Office do not install on a Chromebook.
Can a Chromebook work without Wi-Fi?
Yes, a Chromebook can work without Wi-Fi for many tasks. Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides work offline after offline access is turned on, and downloaded files, videos, and many Android apps also work offline.
How long does a Chromebook get updates?
Chromebooks receive 10 years of automatic ChromeOS updates from the date the hardware platform was released. Each Chromebook’s end-of-updates date is listed in Settings under About ChromeOS.
Does a Chromebook need antivirus software?
No, a Chromebook does not need traditional antivirus software. ChromeOS protects Chromebooks with sandboxing, verified boot, and automatic security updates, though users should still avoid phishing links and untrusted apps.
How much storage does a Chromebook need?
Most Chromebook users need 64GB to 128GB of local storage, because files are usually saved to Google Drive cloud storage. A Chromebook with 128GB to 256GB of storage is better for people who install many Android apps or keep large files offline.
Can you play games on a Chromebook?
Yes, Chromebooks can play Android games from Google Play, browser games, and console and PC games through cloud gaming services. Chromebooks cannot run most demanding PC games locally, so a gaming laptop is better for locally installed PC games.
Is a Chromebook good for students?
Yes, a Chromebook is a popular choice for students because Chromebooks start quickly, update automatically, and work well with Google Classroom and other web-based school tools. Students who need specific Windows software for engineering, design, or video courses should choose a Windows laptop.
What is a Chromebook Plus?
A Chromebook Plus is a Chromebook that meets Google’s higher minimum specs for performance, memory, storage, display, and webcam. Chromebook Plus models also include extra Google AI and productivity features.
What is a Googlebook?
A Googlebook is a laptop that runs Googlebook OS, an operating system from Google that combines ChromeOS with the Android platform. Existing Chromebooks continue to receive ChromeOS updates through their supported lifetime, and many newer Chromebooks will be eligible to move to Googlebook OS.
