Chromebook Wi-Fi and Ethernet: connect and troubleshoot

A Chromebook leans on its connection more than most computers, because so much of it lives online. Google gives a short order to follow, and it is the same order we would give you on the phone.

Steps

1. Check you are connected

   Look at the status area at the bottom right. Select it and confirm the Wi-Fi name.

2. Run the Diagnostics app

   Google says to run the network diagnostic tool. It is in Settings, then About ChromeOS, then Diagnostics. It runs connection tests by itself.

3. Restart the Chromebook

   Google's page lists a restart as the third step for Wi-Fi.

4. Test after each step

   Google's page asks you to try the connection after each one, so you know which fixed it.

5. For a wired link, check the cable

   Connect the Chromebook to the router with a working Ethernet cable or USB adapter. The status area shows an Ethernet connection.

6. Try the same cable and port on another computer

   Google says to try the same router with another computer. If it connects there, replace the cable or the USB adapter.

7. Check the router and the line

   If other devices are also offline, follow the five checks.

What if a sign-in page never appears?

Google's page covers networks that need a sign-in page, such as a hotel. It says to visit a site starting with http:// to bring up the sign-in. Your home network does not have one.

What if my school or work Chromebook only fails at home?

Google's page says that when other devices connect and Chrome devices do not, an administrator may need to allow certain hostnames. For a managed Chromebook, ask whoever manages it.

Does a Chromebook count against my data?

Yes, like any device. Each High Desert service level has a data transfer limit, available by emailing info@hdiss.net, with $1 per gigabyte billed over it in a billing cycle, per the service agreement. See data transfer limits and your usage.

What does the Diagnostics app show?

Google's page says the app checks for hardware and connection problems, including the Wi-Fi, and runs tests for your default connection method by itself. It is a good first stop because it tells you whether the Chromebook sees the router, whether the router answers and whether the internet answers beyond that. Each of those points to a different fix.

If the Chromebook cannot see the router, the problem is the signal or the Chromebook's Wi-Fi. If it sees the router but not the internet, check other devices; if they are also offline, the line or the router is at fault, and the five checks apply. Write down the result and have it ready if you call 775-575-9593.

Do I need to go outside or touch the antenna for this?

None of these steps involve the outdoor equipment. Do not climb to it, and do not pull or bend its cable. If you think it is the cause, call.