What are ChromeBooks?

ChromeBooks are typically laptop style computers which, instead of running Microsoft Windows, run the simpler, streamlined Google Chrome software.  ChromeBooks don’t run the traditional software packages such as Adobe Photoshop or Microsoft office which our Windows PCs do.  Instead they run a version of the Google Chrome web browser, allowing users to access all of the web based resources on the Internet.

What are the strengths of ChromeBooks?

The Google Chrome software is much simpler that Microsoft Windows, making it much faster to boot and logon to than many of our Windows PCs.  They are cost effective, meaning we can buy two or three ChromeBooks for a traditional Windows Laptop.

What are the downside of ChromeBooks?

Compatibility.  Because they don’t run Windows, many of the peripherals you may have at home such as printers and scanners might not work with the ChromeBooks.   However, most new higher end printers are compatible with ChromeBooks.

How do I log onto a ChromeBook?

Rather than a College network account, you log onto a ChromeBook with a Google account.  All staff and students have had a Norton College Google account created for them, based on the format username@nortononchrome.org, where username is the same as your College network account.  Once you’re ready to start using your Google account, a password will be emailed to you.