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Chromebook facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

A Chromebook is a special kind of laptop or computer. It runs an operating system called Chrome OS. These computers are made to be used mostly when you are connected to the internet. Instead of installing big programs, you use apps that work online, often called "web apps." All your important files and information are usually saved "in the cloud." This means they are stored online, not just on your computer.

Quick facts for kids
Chromebook
Chromebook-logo.png
Samsung Series 3 Chromebook.JPG
Samsung Series 3 Chromebook
Type Personal computer - Notebook
Owner Google
Introduced June 15, 2011 (2011-06-15)

The very first Chromebooks came out in 2011. Companies like Acer Inc. and Samsung made them. Later, other companies like Lenovo, HP, and even Google started making them too. Besides laptops, there are also desktop versions called Chromeboxes.

Chromebooks are often sold online. Many schools also use them. They are popular because they are simple to use and often cost less than other computers.

How Chromebooks Work

Samsung Chromebook Series 3 internals
Inside a Samsung Chromebook Series 3.

Chromebooks use Google Chrome OS. This operating system is based on Linux and uses the Google Chrome web browser. It also has a built-in media player for music and videos.

These computers are designed for internet use. Instead of installing big programs like word processors, you use "web apps." You can find these apps in the Chrome Web Store. Google says Chromebooks are very secure. They have many layers of security built in. This means you usually don't need extra anti-virus programs.

Chromebooks can connect to many USB devices. You can plug in cameras, mice, keyboards, and flash drives. They work easily, much like "plug-and-play" on other computers.

Even though they are made for online use, you can still do things offline. Many Google apps, like Google Docs, work even without an internet connection.

Images for kids

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Chromebook para niños

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Chromebook Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.