- Using Chromebooks at Auburn

This article discusses Chromebooks and what applications can and cannot be utilized on them at Auburn University.

What is a Chromebook?

A Chromebook is a laptop or tablet running the Linux-based Chrome OS as its operating system. The devices are primarily used to perform a variety of tasks using the Google Chrome browser, with most applications and data residing in the cloud rather than on the machine itself.

What can I do on a Chromebook?

use web-based applications
use the web version of Microsoft 365 software
connect to VM lab options via the web
use Zoom (Zoom's Progressive Web App, PWA, required)
access Canvas through a web browser
install the LockDown Browser Chrome Extension (see this Knowledge Base Article)

What will not work on a Chromebook?

installing Adobe Creative Cloud
installing the full suite of Microsoft 365 apps
installing an email client

The university as a whole does not suggest any specific computers, but certain academic units have recommendations based on various software programs you will be running while in those courses. Chromebooks are not recommended due to restrictions on installing many software applications. We recommend ensuring all devices are running the most recent and up-to-date version of operating systems available for your device.

Auburn University utilizes ProctorU and Respondus LockDown Browser for virtual exam proctoring. To ensure your device is compatible with these proctoring applications, please review their device requirements:

For a listing of student computer recommendations by college, please see the Student Computer Specification Recommendations Knowledge Base Article.