Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesTo get a Chromebook online, connect it to Wi-Fi from Quick Settings. If Wi-Fi is unavailable, you may be able to use a phone hotspot, a Chromebook’s built-in cellular connection, a compatible mobile broadband dongle, or Ethernet. Which options work depends on your Chromebook, phone, carrier and data plan.
Choose a connection that fits your situation
| Connection | When it works | What to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | A home, school, workplace or public network is available. | Usually the simplest option. Public networks may require a browser sign-in, and information sent over open Wi-Fi can be available to others on that network. |
| Phone hotspot or tethering | Your phone has mobile data, and your device and carrier support sharing it. | Uses the phone’s data and battery. Carrier limits or charges may apply. |
| Built-in cellular | Your Chromebook has cellular hardware and a supported, active SIM or eSIM plan. | Availability, coverage, cost and roaming terms depend on the device, carrier, region and plan. |
| Mobile broadband dongle | You have an activated USB dongle that works with your Chromebook and carrier. | Compatibility varies; some connections need APN or PPP authentication settings. |
| Ethernet | You can connect to a router using Ethernet, sometimes through a compatible USB adapter. | A wired connection can help test whether a problem is with Wi-Fi or the Chromebook’s broader network access. |
Connect your Chromebook to Wi-Fi
- Select the time in the bottom-right corner to open Quick Settings.
- Turn on Wi-Fi, then select the network you want to join.
- Enter the password if the network is secured and follow any prompts.
- For a public network that requires acceptance of terms or a sign-in, open a browser and complete its captive-portal page.
Google’s Wi-Fi connection instructions cover the basic setup. On an open network, other people on that network may be able to access information you send, so avoid treating public Wi-Fi as private.
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Use a phone’s hotspot
A hotspot shares the phone’s mobile-data connection with the Chromebook. Google’s Instant Tethering feature has specific requirements: ChromeOS 71 or later, Android 8.1 or later, the same Google Account signed in on both devices, and a Chromebook that supports the feature. Other hotspot methods may have their own device and carrier requirements.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →- Check with your mobile operator whether your plan allows tethering and whether limits or extra charges apply.
- Turn on the phone’s hotspot or tethering feature, or use Instant Tethering if both devices support it.
- On the Chromebook, open Quick Settings and select the phone or hotspot from the available network connections.
- When the phone does not appear, bring the devices closer and check that Bluetooth is on; Google lists proximity and Bluetooth among the checks for Instant Tethering.
- Turn sharing off when you are finished to reduce mobile-data use and battery drain.
Google lists the setup requirements and carrier caveats in its Instant Tethering instructions. Separately, Chromebook hotspot support is provider- and device-dependent; Google notes that hardware, firmware and a tethering plan can affect availability in its hotspot guidance.
#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.
Check whether your Chromebook has cellular
Not every Chromebook includes cellular hardware. Open Settings > Network and look for a Mobile data option. If it is available, the Chromebook still needs a supported carrier profile and an appropriate active plan.
SIM and eSIM setup
For a SIM connection, insert and activate a supported SIM according to the device and carrier’s instructions. For eSIM, Google’s setup guidance requires ChromeOS 92 or later; select an installed profile or follow the carrier’s activation process. If the plan or profile is missing or unsupported, the carrier may need to complete setup. See Google’s SIM and eSIM instructions.
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.
APN settings and roaming
Most Chromebooks use a configured access point name (APN) automatically, but some carriers require a custom APN. Google explains the cases and setup in its APN instructions. Mobile-data costs, roaming charges and available service depend on the carrier, device, region and plan; confirm terms with your provider. When Wi-Fi and cellular are both available, ChromeOS can prefer Wi-Fi. Google’s mobile-data help covers activation, availability and roaming.
Connect with a USB mobile broadband dongle
Some activated USB mobile broadband dongles work with Chromebooks, but Google does not provide a comprehensive current compatibility list. Confirm the exact dongle model, Chromebook port and carrier requirements before relying on one. Depending on the service, setup may involve selecting the cellular connection and supplying PPP authentication or APN details. Google’s mobile-data instructions describe dongle setup and these possible requirements.
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.
Use Ethernet to get online or isolate a problem
If your Chromebook has no Ethernet port, a USB Ethernet adapter may provide a wired connection, provided it is compatible with the Chromebook and its available port. Connect the Chromebook to the router with an Ethernet cable or adapter. Google recommends wired testing as one way to troubleshoot connection problems; its connection troubleshooting steps describe this approach.
Troubleshoot a Chromebook that will not connect
Try the checks below in order, testing the connection after each change.
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
- Check the network itself. Confirm Wi-Fi is on, the selected network is available, and the password is correct. If possible, check whether another device can connect to the same network.
- Complete any sign-in portal. Public Wi-Fi may require a browser-based acceptance or login page. If it does not appear automatically, try visiting an HTTP page to prompt the portal. Ask the network owner whether internet access is available.
- Run the network diagnostic. Open the ChromeOS Diagnostics app and use its network test to help identify the issue.
- Restart the Chromebook. Then try connecting again.
- Test Ethernet if possible. Connect to the router using a cable or compatible USB adapter. If another computer connects but the Chromebook does not, test or replace the cable or adapter.
- Check browser extensions if the portal is blocked. Disable extensions temporarily and retry the sign-in page.
Google’s connection troubleshooting guide recommends testing after each step so you can tell whether a particular change fixed the problem.
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Watch mobile-data use during ChromeOS updates
ChromeOS updates can use a substantial amount of mobile data. Google says the update flow can show the amount of data required; if an update fails on mobile data, its guidance recommends switching to Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Check your plan’s data allowance before proceeding over cellular. See Google’s Chromebook update instructions.
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.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
