Crosh stands for Chrome Shell, a command-line interface that provides direct access to Chrome OS system functions. This built-in terminal allows users to run diagnostic tests, check system information, and execute various commands without third-party applications.
Chromebook owners use Crosh to troubleshoot issues, monitor system performance, and access advanced features beyond standard settings.
Unlike standard Chrome OS settings, Crosh operates through text commands similar to Windows Command Prompt or macOS Terminal.
Understanding Crosh helps you diagnose hardware problems, check network configurations, and perform system maintenance more efficiently than through conventional settings menus.
How To Access and Use Crosh?
Opening the Crosh Interface
Press Ctrl+Alt+T simultaneously on your Chromebook keyboard to launch Crosh. A new browser tab will open, displaying a black terminal window with a command prompt. This keyboard shortcut works from any screen in Chrome OS, making Crosh quickly accessible whenever you need it.
Running Basic Diagnostic Commands
Type “help” and press Enter to view all available commands within Crosh. The interface displays a complete list of commands with brief descriptions. Common diagnostic commands include battery_test, memory_test, and top to monitor running processes.
Checking Network Information
Enter “ping” followed by a website address to test your internet connectivity. For example, typing “ping google.com” verifies whether your Chromebook can reach external servers. You can also use “ipaddrs” to display your device’s IP address information, which helps when configuring network settings or troubleshooting connectivity issues.
Testing Battery Performance
Type “battery_test” followed by the number of seconds you want to run the test. Running “battery_test 30” executes a thirty-second battery diagnostic that shows power source status, battery health, and discharge rates. This command provides more detailed battery information than what appears in your system tray or settings.
Accessing Advanced Features Through Shell Mode
Type “shell” and press Enter to access a more powerful command environment with expanded capabilities. Shell mode requires Chrome OS Developer Mode to function properly, which removes certain security restrictions. Within shell mode, you can navigate the file system, modify system files, and run commands that aren’t available in standard Crosh.
Running System Updates and Configuration
Use “set_time” followed by date, month, year, and time values to manually adjust your system clock. While Chrome OS typically syncs time automatically, this command offers precise control when needed. For cellular-enabled Chromebooks, commands like “update_over_cellular enable” manage whether system updates download over mobile networks.
Monitoring System Resources
Type “top” to view currently running processes and their resource usage. This command displays CPU and memory consumption for each active process. Press Ctrl+C to exit the process monitor and return to the Crosh prompt.
Accessing the Linux Terminal
If you have Linux development environment enabled, Crosh serves as a gateway to your Linux terminal. Type “vmc start termina” to launch your Linux virtual machine from Crosh. This integration between Crosh and Linux terminal functions makes Crosh essential for developers working on Chromebooks.
Many users need Crosh for specific troubleshooting scenarios. For instance, you can check WiFi passwords through Crosh commands when Developer Mode is enabled. Additionally, Crosh provides detailed hardware information beyond what’s available in standard system specifications.
FAQs
Can I use Crosh without enabling Developer Mode?
Yes, basic Crosh commands work without Developer Mode. Advanced features like shell access require Developer Mode activation on your Chromebook.
Is Crosh safe to use on my Chromebook?
Crosh is completely safe when using standard commands. Avoid running unfamiliar shell commands in Developer Mode, as these can modify system files and potentially cause issues.
What does the help command show in Crosh?
The help command displays all available Crosh commands with brief descriptions. This built-in reference helps you discover diagnostic tools and system functions without external documentation.
Can Crosh access files on my Chromebook?
Standard Crosh has limited file access. Shell mode provides full filesystem access, but this requires Developer Mode and knowledge of Linux command-line navigation and operations.
How do I close the Crosh terminal window?
Simply close the browser tab containing Crosh or type “exit” and press Enter. Crosh sessions don’t persist, so closing the tab terminates your terminal session.