Basic FAQ

Basic FAQs

Q. What is a Chromebook?

A. “Chromebooks are mobile devices designed specifically for people who live on the web. With a comfortable, full-sized keyboard, large display and clickable track pad, all- day battery life, light weight and built-in ability to connect to Wi-Fi and mobile broadband networks, the Chromebook is ideal for anytime, anywhere access to the web. They provide a faster, safer, more secure online experience for people who live on the web, without all the time-consuming, often confusing, high level of maintenance required by typical computers.” (“Google”)

Q. What kind of software does a Chromebook run?

A. “Chromebooks run millions of web-based applications, or web apps, that open right in the browser. You can access web apps by typing their URL into the address bar or by installing them instantly from the Chrome Web Store.” (“Google”)

Q. How are these web-based applications managed?

A. Each Chromebook we provide to students will be a managed device. Members of Haverford School District’s Technology Department will maintain devices through our Google Apps for Education account. As such, the school can pre-install web- applications as well as block specific web-applications from a centralized management console

Q. What devices can I connect to a Chromebook?

A. Chromebooks can connect to:

●         USB storage, mice and keyboards (see supported file systems)

●         SIM cards

●         SD cards

●         External monitors and projectors

●         Headsets, earsets, microphones

Q. Can the Chromebook be used anywhere at anytime?

A. Yes, as long as you have a Wi-Fi signal to access the web. Chrome offers the ability through Apps so users can work in an "offline" mode if Wi-Fi is unavailable.

Q. Do Chromebooks come with Internet Filtering Software?

A. No. Chromebooks do not come with Internet filtering software. However, the School District of Haverford Township is providing onsite and offsite filtering using the District’s web filter over wifi and routing outside the District.

Q. Is there antivirus built into it?

A. It is not necessary to have antivirus software on Chromebooks because there are no running programs for viruses to infect.

Q. Battery life?

A. Chromebooks have a rated battery life of 6.5 hours. However, we do expect that students charge them each evening to ensure maximum performance during the school day.