Understanding Chrome OS

Chrome OS is the operating system for the Chromebook. It is very similar to the Chrome web browser and designed to efficiently support the use of web applications and internet resources.

Although the user who is familiar with the Chrome browser on a Mac or PC will feel at home on a Chromebook, there are aspects of the OS (operating system) that you will only find on a Chromebook. For example, downloading on a Chromebook works differently than other devices.

Below, you'll find two sections: one focused on the OS, or operating system, followed by information about the Chrome browser that is applicable to most devices.

Chrome OS

The power of Chrome is enhanced by cusomising the browser’s settings. Use this tip sheet to see how.

Customise Chrome

Downloads — You can use many types of files on your Chromebook, like documents, PDFs, images, and media. You can choose to save your files to your Chromebook's hard drive, Google Drive, or save to a USB-connected external hard drive.

Chrome Apps are web-based applications (programs) that are designed to be used entirely within the browser. These apps allow you to create documents, edit photos, listen to music, and much more without the need to download and install additional programs. The Chrome Web Store has an extensive collection of free and paid apps that work with Chromebooks.

Extensions are software that can be added by users to the Chrome browser to enhance the functionality of the browser, apps, or web services. Extensions make browsing the web a better experience by providing quick access to tools that will enhance your experience. Here is list of some useful Chrome extensions:

Read & Write: Literacy toolbar, Read&Write for Google Chrome™ provides personalised support, making documents, web pages and Google Drive files (including PDFs & ePub) more accessible.
Grammerly: Improve your writing with Grammarly's communication assistance—including spell check, grammar check and punctuation check.
Equatio: Easily create mathematical equations, formulas and quizzes. Intuitively type or handwrite, with no tricky maths code to learn.
Google Docs Quick Create: Create new Documents for Google Drive from your browser bar.
Kami: Free extension that allows you to edit and annotate PDF documents right in your browser.

NOTE: School-managed devices may restrict Chrome apps and extensions to school-approved apps and extensions only. Contact your school's IT Manager if you want an App of Extension installed.

Chrome Browser — Tips and Tricks

Chromebook Tabs — Tabs allow you to open multiple web pages in a single browser window without cluttering your desktop. Mastering tabbed browsing can speed up your browsing experience and make multiple web pages easier to manage.

Managing Chrome Tabs

The Omnibox — The Chrome Omnibox is similar to traditional browser address bars but provides additional features including searching the Internet and completing tasks.

Chrome Omnibox Tips & Tricks

Chrome Bookmarks — You can edit, delete, and organize the web pages you bookmark to make it easier to find them. You can also update your bookmarks across your devices so that they show up in Chrome whenever and wherever you log in.

Manage Saved Passwords — You can have Chrome remember your passwords for different sites. Whenever you sign in to a website, Chrome asks if you want to save your account info for that site.

Microsoft office on Chromebooks: On your Chromebook, you can open, edit, download, and convert many Microsoft® Office files, such as Word, PowerPoint, or Excel files.

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