Chromebook will not connect to Wi-Fi: how to fix it

When a Chromebook will not get on Wi-Fi, the Chromebook itself is almost never broken. The usual causes are Wi-Fi switched off, a typo in the password, a router that needs a restart, an old saved network that changed, or a Chromebook waiting on an update. Work through these in order and stop as soon as it connects.

Steps

1. Check that Wi-Fi is on. Click the clock at the bottom right of the screen. If the Wi-Fi icon is gray or shows a line through it, click it to turn Wi-Fi on, then pick your network from the list.
2. Check the password carefully. Wi-Fi passwords care about capital letters. Click the eye icon in the password box to see what you typed. The password is often printed on a sticker on the bottom or back of your router.
3. Restart the Chromebook. Click the clock, then the power icon, then Restart. A restart fixes most connection problems.
4. Restart the router. Unplug the router and the modem from the wall, wait 30 seconds, plug the modem back in first, wait until its lights settle, then plug the router back in. Give it about two minutes before trying again.
5. Forget the network and join it fresh. Click the clock, then the gear for Settings, then Network, then Wi-Fi. Click your network name, choose Forget, then pick it again from the list and type the password.
6. Move closer to the router for a test. If it connects next to the router but not in another room, the signal is weak there, and a Wi-Fi extender or mesh system can help.
7. Update the Chromebook. Once it is online anywhere, even on a phone hotspot, open Settings, then About ChromeOS, then Check for updates. Restart when it asks.
8. If it says connected but web pages will not load, check whether other devices in the house can get online. If none can, the internet service is down, so call your internet provider using the number on your bill.
9. Never call a phone number from a popup or a search ad that says your Chromebook has a virus or a network problem. Google will not call you or ask you to install remote access apps.

Common questions

Will I lose my files if I restart or forget the network?

No. Restarting the Chromebook or forgetting a Wi-Fi network does not touch your files, photos, or Google account.

My Chromebook connects to my phone hotspot but not my home Wi-Fi. Why?

That points to the home router or the saved password, not the Chromebook. Restart the router, then forget the network on the Chromebook and join it again.

Should I do a Powerwash?

A Powerwash erases everything stored on the Chromebook itself and is a last resort. Try every step above first, and make sure anything in Downloads is saved to Google Drive before you do it.

Where do I find my Wi-Fi name and password?

Look for a sticker on the router or modem labeled Network, SSID, Wi-Fi password, or Key. If the password was changed, whoever set up your internet may have written it down.

Can Ellis help me with this?

Yes. Ellis can talk you through each step by phone while you look at your own Chromebook, and will never ask for your passwords or bank details. Ellis is an AI assistant, and it will tell you so.

Ellis is an AI tech support assistant from 5 Star Consultants, a division of Adore LLC. Privacy Terms