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To get a Chromebook online, open Quick Settings by selecting the time, turn on Wi-Fi, choose a network, and enter its password if asked. If Wi-Fi is unavailable, you can use a phone hotspot, a cellular plan on a Chromebook with built-in cellular hardware, or—in some cases—a compatible mobile broadband dongle. Ethernet is useful for a wired connection or troubleshooting.
Choose a connection that works for your Chromebook
| Connection | What you need | Best use |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | A nearby network and, if secured, its password or sign-in details. | Home, school, workplace, or public access. |
| Phone hotspot | A phone with mobile data, a supported tethering method, and a plan that permits tethering. | Getting online away from Wi-Fi. |
| Built-in cellular | A cellular-capable Chromebook, an activated SIM or eSIM, and a compatible carrier plan. | Mobile access without relying on a separate phone. |
| Mobile broadband dongle | An activated, compatible USB modem and any required carrier settings. | Mobile data when the Chromebook and modem support one another. |
| Ethernet | A router, Ethernet cable, and—if the Chromebook lacks an Ethernet port—a compatible USB Ethernet adapter. | Stable wired access or checking whether Wi-Fi is the source of a problem. |
Google’s Wi-Fi instructions describe the standard connection method. Availability of cellular and USB devices varies by Chromebook model, carrier, and region.
Connect to Wi-Fi
- Select the time in the lower-right corner to open Quick Settings.
- Turn on Wi-Fi and select the network you want to use.
- Enter the password if prompted, then complete any additional sign-in or acceptance steps.
Some public networks require a captive-portal sign-in page to accept terms or enter a code. If the page does not appear automatically, open a browser and try visiting an HTTP page to prompt the network’s sign-in flow. Google notes that information sent over an open Wi-Fi network may be available to other people on that network; do not treat an open network as private.
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Use a phone as a hotspot
A hotspot shares the phone’s mobile-data connection with the Chromebook. You can enable the hotspot on the phone and connect to it from the Chromebook’s Wi-Fi list. Google also documents Instant Tethering, which can make a supported phone available through ChromeOS network controls.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Instant Tethering requirements
- The Chromebook must run ChromeOS 71 or later and support the feature.
- The phone must run Android 8.1 or later.
- The same Google Account must be signed in on both devices.
If the phone does not appear, bring it closer and check that Bluetooth is enabled. Not every mobile provider supports tethering, and operators may impose limits or charges. Sharing a connection also uses more of the phone’s battery. Check your plan terms and turn off sharing when you are done. See Google’s Instant Tethering guidance.
Connect using built-in cellular
Only some Chromebooks have cellular hardware. To check, open Settings > Network and look for a Mobile data option. If it is available, the device still needs an activated SIM or a suitable eSIM profile and a carrier data plan. Google says eSIM setup requires ChromeOS 92 or later.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Insert or activate the SIM, or select an installed eSIM profile, and follow the on-screen setup. If no supported profile or plan is available, the carrier may need to provision it. Most Chromebooks use configured APN settings automatically, but some carriers require a custom APN. Mobile-data availability, roaming charges, and plan terms vary; verify them with the carrier. Google’s documentation covers mobile data, SIM and eSIM setup, and APN settings. When Wi-Fi and mobile data are both available, ChromeOS can prefer Wi-Fi.
Try a mobile broadband dongle or Ethernet
Mobile broadband dongle
Some activated USB dongles can provide mobile data, but compatibility is not universal. Google’s setup guidance says a device may require PPP authentication or APN configuration. Check the exact modem model, Chromebook compatibility, and carrier requirements before relying on one; Google’s connection instructions do not establish a comprehensive current compatibility list.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Ethernet
Connect the Chromebook to a router with an Ethernet cable. If it has no Ethernet port, use a compatible USB Ethernet adapter and check that it works with the Chromebook’s available port. A wired connection can also help determine whether the problem is specific to Wi-Fi. Google recommends this as a troubleshooting test in its connection-problem steps.
Troubleshoot a Chromebook that will not connect
- Check the network: Confirm that Wi-Fi is on, the network is in range, and the password is correct. If possible, test whether another device can connect.
- Complete the sign-in page: On public or managed networks, open a browser and try an HTTP page to bring up the captive portal. Ask the network owner whether internet access is available.
- Run Diagnostics: Open the ChromeOS Diagnostics app and use its network test to check connectivity.
- Restart the Chromebook: Then test the connection again.
- Test Ethernet: Connect to the router using a cable and compatible adapter. If another computer connects but the Chromebook does not, test or replace the cable or adapter.
- Check browser extensions: If a portal or connection page is not working, disable extensions temporarily and try again.
Google advises testing the Chromebook after each troubleshooting step. See the full network troubleshooting guidance.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Watch mobile data use during ChromeOS updates
ChromeOS updates can consume a substantial amount of mobile data. Google’s update flow can show how much data an update requires; if an update fails over mobile data, Google recommends trying Wi-Fi or Ethernet instead. Check your plan’s allowance before proceeding. See Google’s Chromebook update instructions.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
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