Quick Answer
Open Settings, scroll to About ChromeOS, and click “Check for updates.” ChromeOS downloads the update automatically and prompts you to restart. If the update won’t download or gets stuck, disconnect from any VPN, switch to a stable network, and try again; a stuck update also usually clears with a restart.
Why You’d Update Manually
ChromeOS normally updates itself in the background without asking. Google rolls out new versions in stages, so a build can reach some Chromebooks days or weeks before others, even on the same model. If you don’t want to wait for the rollout to reach your device, or your Chromebook has been sitting unused and missed a few releases, checking manually pulls the latest version right away.
How to Check for Updates
Step 1: Open About ChromeOS
Click the time in the bottom-right corner, then the gear icon to open Settings. Scroll to the bottom of the left-hand menu and select “About ChromeOS.”
Step 2: Check for updates
Click “Check for updates.” If a new version is available, it starts downloading right away, and you’ll see a progress percentage under the button.
Step 3: Restart to install
Once the download finishes, the button changes to “Restart your Chromebook to update it.” Click it, or restart later on your own, since the update only takes effect after a reboot.
Step 4: Confirm the new version
After restarting, go back to About ChromeOS and check the version and build number against what Google published for that release.
When the Update Won’t Download or Install
Network issues: Some VPNs, school or work Wi-Fi, and captive portals block the connections ChromeOS needs to reach Google’s update servers. Try a different network, ideally without a VPN, before assuming something else is wrong.
Not enough storage: ChromeOS needs free space to stage the new build before installing it. Clear out downloaded files or old Android app data if storage is nearly full.
Managed device policy: On a school or work Chromebook, an administrator controls when and whether updates install. If “Check for updates” does nothing or the button is grayed out, that’s usually why, and there’s no user-side fix.
Auto Update Expiration: Chromebooks stop receiving ChromeOS updates once they hit their AUE date, which is fixed by hardware and listed on the same About ChromeOS page. Past that date, “Check for updates” will say you’re on the latest build even if a newer ChromeOS version exists for other devices.
FAQ
Do I need to be plugged in to update?
No, but it’s worth doing for anything more than a quick check. Downloads and installs can take several minutes, and a dead battery mid-install isn’t worth the risk.
Will updating manually delete my files?
No. Regular ChromeOS updates don’t touch your files, extensions, or settings. A Powerwash is a separate, deliberate action, not something that happens automatically during an update.
Can I skip a version and jump straight to the newest one?
Yes. “Check for updates” always pulls the latest version available to your device and channel, not the next one in sequence.
