You can use your phone’s mobile data to connect your Chromebook to the internet. Sharing a connection with devices is called tethering or using a portable hotspot.
What you need
- ChromeOS version 71 and up. Learn how to update your Chromebook software.
- Android version 8.1 and up. Learn how to check your Android version.
- A Google Account that you’re signed in to, both on your phone and your Chromebook.
- A Chromebook device that supports instant hotspot. Check which devices don't support instant hotspot.
Connect your Chromebook to your phone
Important: Some mobile carriers limit or charge extra for instant hotspots. For more information, check with your phone’s mobile carrier.
- On your Chromebook, at the bottom right, select the time.
- Select Settings
Internet
- Next to “Instant hotspot,” select Set up.
- Enter your password.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
- Once completed, you’ll get a confirmation on your phone.
- Under "Enabled," select which features you want to turn on.
Tip: Learn how to connect your Android to Chromebook.
Use your phone's data connection
- On your Android device, turn on Bluetooth.
- On your Chromebook, at the bottom right, select the time.
- Select your Wi-Fi network
or No network
.
- Under “Your device hotspots,” select your phone.
- If you don’t see your phone, select Set up your device or make sure your phone is nearby and turn on Bluetooth on your phone and the Chromebook.
- When you find "Connected" under your phone’s name, your phone is sharing its data connection with your Chromebook.
Stop sharing your phone’s data connection
To stop using your phone’s data connection, on your phone, under "Sharing data connection" notification, tap Disconnect.
Expect more battery use & possible data charges
Sharing your phone’s data connection can use more of your phone’s battery. While sharing your phone’s data, you can:
- Plug in your phone.
- Turn off data connections when you're done.