How to Fix Chromebook Update Errors

Chromebooks automatically update to the latest ChromeOS version available in the Stable Channel. If your device gets lazy and fails to automatically install the latest updates, you can manually check for updates. But sometimes, updating your ChromeOS device may turn into a nightmare due to various update errors. If you’re experiencing similar issues, follow the troubleshooting steps below.

Why Is My Chromebook Not Updating to the Latest Version?

First things first, let’s explore what might be causing the ChromeOS update errors that you’re experiencing. Understanding the root cause of the problem is key to finding the right solution.

• Something’s interfering with the update process. Your peripherals could be interfering with the update process. The same is valid for the programs running in the background.
• You’re running low on memory and storage space. Maybe your laptop cannot access enough memory and storage space resources to save the ChromeOS files.
• Your network connection is unstable. Suppose your Wi-Fi connection is unstable, or you’re experiencing bandwidth issues. In that case, your device may have trouble installing the latest ChromeOS version.
• Your battery is running low. If you’re running low on power, your Chromebook won’t update to save battery power.

How Do I Fix Chromebook Update Errors?

Remove Peripherals and Plug in the Charger

Disconnect all the peripherals connected to your Chromebook. In rare cases, your peripherals might be interfering with the update process. Then plug in the charger and restart your laptop. Your Chromebook won’t update if the battery is too low.

Check Your Network Connection

Make sure your network connection is working correctly. Unplug your router and leave it unplugged for one minute. This will help you get rid of flea power.

Then plug the device back in, and wait until it boots up completely. Disconnect all the other devices using the connection. Ensure your Chromebook is the only device connected to the network. This will help you free up more bandwidth for your laptop. Do that and check for updates again.

Free up Memory and Storage Space

Ensure there’s enough memory and storage space on your device for the update process to complete successfully. Close any open tabs and apps that you’re not actively using.

Then navigate to Settings, select Device, and go to Storage management. Delete the files you don’t need anymore, clear browsing data, uninstall redundant apps and user profiles.

Reset Chromebook Hardware

Check if resetting your Chromebook hardware solves the update problem. Don’t forget to save a copy of the Downloads folder before resetting your hardware.

1. Turn off your Chromebook.
2. Press the Refresh and Power keys at the same time.
3. Wait until your laptop starts up, and then release the Refresh key.
4. Check for updates again.

Check If Your Chromebook Is Too Old to Update

Suppose your Chromebook is too old to update. Check if your device has already reached the Auto Update Expiration date (AUE). In that case, you should get a “Final Software Update” notification when installing the last available update.

1. Navigate to Settings.
2. Then click on About Chrome OS.
3. Select Additional details.
4. Locate the Update schedule section, and check if your Chromebook already received its last update.

When your Chromebook stops receiving OS and browser updates, it may potentially become vulnerable to threats, and you won’t have access to the latest features.

Contact Your Admin

IT admins can freeze ChromeOS updates to a specific version. If you’re using a Chromebook managed by an organization, contact your admin for further help. They’ll let you know if OS updates have been blocked. Maybe there’s nothing wrong with your device after all.

Conclusion

If you can’t install the latest ChromeOS updates, remove all peripherals and plug in the charger. Then, restart your router. Close unnecessary apps and delete the files you don’t need anymore to free up some space. If the issue persists, reset your Chromebook hardware.

Check if your Chromebook reached the Auto Update Expiration date, which makes it ineligible for new updates. You may also want to contact your admin and check if OS updates have been blocked.

Did you manage to fix the problem? Let us know in the comments below.