Set up Peripherals On a Chromebook

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

How to Set Up USB Connected Peripherals on Your Chromebook

Chromebooks support a wide range of USB-connected peripherals, such as external hard drives, printers, mice, and more. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to set up and use USB peripherals on your Chromebook effectively.

1. Understanding USB Peripherals Compatibility:

Check if your USB peripheral is compatible with Chrome OS by referring to manufacturer documentation.

2. Connecting USB Peripherals:

Insert the USB connector of your peripheral into an available USB port on your Chromebook.

Ensure a secure connection.

3. Verifying Device Recognition:

Your Chromebook should automatically recognize most USB peripherals.

Check the status of recognized devices in the notification area.

4. Configuring Printer Setup:

For printers, Chrome OS often includes drivers for popular brands.

Click the clock > Settings > Printers > Add Printer to set up your printer.

Follow on-screen instructions to complete the setup.

5. Managing External Storage Devices:

Access external hard drives or USB flash drives through the Files app.

Insert the device, and it will appear in the Files app's left sidebar.

Click on the device to browse or transfer files.

6. Using USB Keyboards and Mice:

Most USB keyboards and mice should work automatically upon connection.

Adjust settings like cursor speed in the Chromebook settings if needed.

7. Connecting Audio Devices:

For headphones or speakers, plug them into the appropriate audio jack or USB port.

Go to Chrome settings > Sound > Output to select your audio device.

8. Troubleshooting USB Peripheral Issues:

If a peripheral isn't working:

Disconnect and reconnect it.

Check if it works on another device.

Ensure Chrome OS is up to date.

Restart your Chromebook.

Check for peripheral-specific driver updates (if applicable).

9. Safely Removing USB Devices:

To prevent data loss, use the "Eject" option in the Files app before physically removing an external storage device.

With this comprehensive guide, you should be able to set up and use USB-connected peripherals on your Chromebook smoothly. Whether you're connecting storage devices, printers, audio equipment, or input devices, your Chromebook offers great versatility and compatibility with a wide range of USB peripherals. Enjoy enhanced functionality and productivity with your Chromebook and USB peripherals.

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1. Introduction: Chromebook: Set up Peripherals

Your Chromebook supports connecting to keyboards, mice, headsets, and headphones using wired USB connections, as well as Bluetooth connections. It also supports wired connections to monitors.

This guide will walk you through setting up those peripherals.

Picture of a Chromebook.

2. Chromebook: USB Devices

USB is the most common type of connector for peripherals. Whether you have a wired or wireless peripheral, chances are they use this type of connector.

Picture of the end of a USB cable, and USB wireless receiver for peripherals.


Simply connect the cable to an available USB port on your Chromebook. It will be automatically setup for you, and available to use in a just moments.

3. Go To: Pair Bluetooth Devices to Your Chromebook

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