How to Remotely Control a Chromebook

This guide shows you how to remotely control a Chromebook from another device, whether you need to access files, help a family member with a problem, or use your Chromebook’s desktop while away. You’ll learn the built-in Chrome Remote Desktop method, plus a few alternatives, and how to set everything up securely.

What You’ll Need

A Chromebook running a recent version of ChromeOS (most devices from 2017 onward are fine).
A Google account (the same one you’ll use on both the controlling and controlled devices).
Another device to control from: a Windows, Mac, Linux computer, another Chromebook, or an Android/iOS phone with the Chrome Remote Desktop app.
An internet connection on both devices. A stable connection is important for smooth performance.

Step-by-Step

We’ll use the free, built-in Chrome Remote Desktop service. It’s the most reliable and doesn’t require installing extra software on the Chromebook itself.

On the Chromebook you want to control (the “host”), open the Chrome browser and go to remotedesktop.google.com/access.
Sign in with your Google account if you aren’t already. Click the blue “Turn On” button under “Remote Access” and then “Install” when prompted. This installs the Chrome Remote Desktop extension, which is required for the host to be controlled.
After installation, you’ll see a screen asking for a PIN. Enter a 6-digit PIN (or more) and click “Start”. This PIN is used to authorize remote connections. Write it down somewhere safe but don’t share it with anyone you don’t trust.
Your Chromebook is now ready to be controlled. You can close the tab; the background service will keep running.
On the device you’ll use to control (the “client”), go to the same website remotedesktop.google.com/access in a browser, or open the Chrome Remote Desktop app on Android/iOS. Sign in with the same Google account.
Under “Remote Access”, you’ll see a list of available computers. Your Chromebook should be listed with its name (usually the device name you set in ChromeOS settings). Click on it.
Enter the PIN you created in step 3, then click the arrow or “Connect” button.
You should now see your Chromebook’s desktop on your screen. You can use your mouse and keyboard to control it. On a phone, you’ll see a virtual trackpad and keyboard.

Common Mistakes

Not installing the extension on the host. The “Turn On” button must be clicked and the installation completed. If you skip it, the Chromebook won’t appear in your device list.
Using different Google accounts. The host and client must be signed in with the same Google account. If you use a different account, you won’t see the device.
Forgetting the PIN. The PIN is required every time you connect. If you forget it, you’ll need to reset it on the host by going back to the remote access page and clicking “Reset PIN”.
Leaving the Chromebook locked. If the Chromebook locks its screen (e.g., after a period of inactivity), you may still be able to connect but you’ll see the lock screen. You’ll need to enter the Chromebook’s password to fully access the desktop. To avoid this, adjust the power settings to keep the screen on and disable automatic lock before you leave.

Tips

Keep your Chromebook awake. Go to Settings > Device > Power and set “Sleep when idle” to “Never” while you’re away. Otherwise, the Chromebook may go to sleep and you won’t be able to wake it remotely (unless you have another way to wake it, like a smart plug).
Use a strong PIN. Choose a PIN that’s not easily guessable (avoid 123456 or your birthday). This is your main security barrier.
Log out when done. After you finish your remote session, click the “Disconnect” button in the toolbar. This prevents someone from reconnecting without your permission.
Consider a second monitor. If you’re controlling from a computer, you can use the full screen or a window. On a tablet or phone, you might find it easier to use the “Fit to screen” option.
Use a wired connection for the host. If possible, connect your Chromebook to the internet via Ethernet (using a USB-C to Ethernet adapter) for a more stable connection, especially for video or heavy tasks.

Troubleshooting

If you can’t connect, try these steps in order:

Check that the Chromebook is on and awake. If it’s off or asleep, you can’t connect. You’ll need someone to physically turn it on or wake it.
Verify the extension is still installed. On the host, go to remotedesktop.google.com/access and check if it says “Turn On” again (meaning the extension was removed). Reinstall it if needed.
Restart the Chrome Remote Desktop service. On the host, go to chrome://extensions, find Chrome Remote Desktop, and click the “Reload” icon (circular arrow). Then try connecting again.
Check your internet connection. On both devices, make sure you have a working internet connection. Try loading a simple website to confirm.
Firewall or network issues. If you’re on a corporate or school network, it might block remote access. Try a different network (like a home Wi-Fi) to see if that’s the issue.
Sign out and back in. On both devices, sign out of your Google account and sign back in, then try again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I remotely control a Chromebook from a phone?

Yes, you can. Install the Chrome Remote Desktop app from the Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS). Sign in with the same Google account, and you’ll see your Chromebook in the list. Touch gestures simulate mouse clicks and scrolling.

Is Chrome Remote Desktop free?

Yes, it’s completely free for personal use. There’s no cost for the service, and it’s built into Chrome.

Can I control a Chromebook that is locked?

You can connect, but you’ll see the lock screen. You’ll need to enter the Chromebook’s password to get past it. To avoid this, disable the lock screen or set the Chromebook to stay unlocked while you’re away.

What if the Chromebook is off? Can I wake it remotely?

No, Chrome Remote Desktop cannot wake a powered-off Chromebook. You need someone to physically press the power button. However, if it’s only asleep, you might be able to wake it if it’s connected to power and you have a WoL (Wake-on-LAN) setup, but that’s not standard on Chromebooks.

Is it secure to use Chrome Remote Desktop?

Yes, it uses TLS and AES encryption for the connection. The PIN you set is required for every session. Make sure to use a strong PIN and keep your Google account secure with two-factor authentication.

Can I transfer files between my computer and the Chromebook during a remote session?

Chrome Remote Desktop does not have a built-in file transfer feature. You can use cloud storage like Google Drive, or use a separate file-sharing service, or use the clipboard to copy and paste text.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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