Chromebook


A Chromebook is a notebook computer based on Google's Chrome OS and designed to access the user's applications, files, and configuration and setting information over the Internet.

The user's videos, pictures and documents are stored on cloud-based servers, so that they are accessible from anywhere, automatically synchronized across devices and do not require back-up or other loss prevention. Even if the device itself is lost or destroyed, because the user's data is not stored locally it will still be available and up to date.

The Chromebook is available in two models, one through Samsung and one through Acer. Both models are 3G or Wi-Fi-compatible. Like a smart phone, the 3G version enables use of the Chromebook from any location that has access to the network.

Chromebook features include:

* An eight-second boot time, which goes directly to the browser without any desktop or background.

* Instant resume from sleep.

* Reported battery life up to 8.5 hours.

* A 40% brighter screen than those of conventional laptops.

* Built-in security.

* Automatic updates.

* A memory card slot and USB drive.

* A keyboard tailored to Internet browsing, with a search command on both sides.

The Chromebook is available for purchase through Amazon and Best Buy retailers. There is also a subscription option for business and school use, which includes a Chromebook, warranty, support, routine hardware refreshes and cloud management for a monthly fee.

The first Chromebooks were released in June 2011. At the Black Hat 2011 security conference in August, Matt Johansen and Kyle Osborn of WhiteHat Security demonstrated how cybercriminals could target cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities to circumvent Chromebook security.