Fix connection problems

If you have trouble connecting your Chromebook to the internet, try the steps below. Test your Chromebook after each step to check if the problem is fixed.

If you still have trouble after you try these steps, contact your Chromebook manufacturer.

Can't connect to Wi-Fi

1. Make sure Wi-Fi is on.
2. Check that the network you want to connect to works with your Chromebook.

Can't connect to other networks

Problems connecting to wired networks

• Make sure your Chromebook is connected to the router with a working Ethernet cable or USB adapter.
• At the bottom right, select the time. If your Chromebook is connected properly, you'll see Connected to Ethernet .
• Try connecting a different computer to the router. If it connects properly, you might need a different cable or USB Ethernet adapter.

Problems connecting to mobile networks (US)

1. Make sure your Chromebook can connect to mobile networks, and that your connection is on.
2. Restart your Chromebook.
3. Make sure the T-Mobile or Verizon Wireless network is turned on. Call your mobile carrier if you have problems connecting.

You can also try switching mobile carriers:

1. Sign in to your Chromebook as a guest.
2. Press Ctrl + Alt + t to open a terminal window.
3. Type this command: modem_set_carrier Generic UMTS
4. Press Enter.
5. Type exit and press Enter again. 
6. Turn off the Chromebook.
7. Insert a SIM card from a different mobile carrier.
8. Turn on the Chromebook.

To switch back to Verizon, open a terminal window and type this command:

modem_set_carrier Verizon Wireless

To switch back to T-Mobile, open a terminal window and type this command:

modem_set_carrier T-Mobile

Problems connecting to mobile networks (outside the US)

1. Make sure your Chromebook can connect to mobile networks, and that your connection is on.
2. Restart your Chromebook.
3. Check that your SIM is activated. If you're still having problems, contact your carrier.
4. You might need a PIN to unlock the SIM card. If you don't know the PIN, call your carrier or use mobile data roaming.

Problems connecting to captive portal networks that require sign-in

Your device may have issues connecting to the internet if the network you’re on requires you to sign in and accept an agreement to use the internet. This agreement is known as a captive portal sign-in page.

• Locate the network sign-in page: Browse http:// websites like http://www.gstatic.com/generate_204 that the network might redirect to its landing page.
  • Tips:

  • Enter URLs that begin with "http://" (not "https").
  • Use a private window (Ctrl + Shift + n) if allowed by your administrator.

  • Turn off extensions: If you can't find the network sign-in page, turn off any extensions that you’ve installed on Chrome. Learn how to uninstall extensions. 
  • If you’re able to complete the sign-in but still can’t get online:
    • Disconnect and reconnect to the network.
    • Use your phone or another device to check if you can connect to the network. If you can’t sign in from another device, there could be an issue with the network.
    • Ask the owner of the network if the network offers internet access.