ChromeOS 90

Basic Information

Google ChromeOS 90 is an operating system designed for speed, simplicity, and security, primarily found on Chromebook devices. It was officially released to the stable channel on April 21, 2021.

• Model: ChromeOS
• Version: 90
• Release Date: April 21, 2021
• Minimum Requirements:
  • Processor: 64-bit x86 Intel or AMD processor (components manufactured before 2010 may result in a poor experience). Intel GMA 500, 600, 3600, and 3650 graphics hardware do not meet ChromeOS Flex performance standards.
  • RAM: 4GB (2GB for older models, but 4GB is generally recommended for a functional experience).
  • Storage: 16GB (absolute minimum), 32GB (basic use), 64GB or more (recommended for Android/Linux applications).
  • Bootable from USB drive.
  • BIOS: Full administrator access.
• Supported Operative Systems: ChromeOS runs on dedicated Chromebook hardware. It natively supports Android applications via the Google Play Store and Linux applications through a virtual machine environment (Crostini).
• Latest Stable Version: ChromeOS 90 is an older version. ChromeOS follows a rapid release cycle, with new stable versions released approximately every four weeks, ensuring users always have access to the latest features and security updates.
• End of Support Date / End of Life Date / Auto-update Expiration Date: ChromeOS versions do not have individual end-of-life dates. Instead, each Chromebook device model has an Auto Update Expiration (AUE) date, after which it no longer receives official software and security updates from Google. This date varies by device model and is typically several years after the device's initial release.
• License Type: ChromeOS is free for end-users on Chromebook devices. For enterprise and educational environments, Google offers Chrome Enterprise and Education Upgrade licenses, which provide advanced management, security, and support features. These licenses can be perpetual (tied to the device's lifespan) or annual subscriptions.
• Deployment Model: Primarily pre-installed on Chromebooks. ChromeOS Flex is available as a separate offering to install ChromeOS on compatible older PCs and Macs.

Technical Requirements

ChromeOS 90 is designed to operate efficiently on a range of hardware, from budget-friendly devices to more powerful machines. The requirements reflect its cloud-centric nature.

• RAM: A minimum of 4GB is necessary for smooth operation, especially when running multiple browser tabs. 8GB of RAM is highly recommended for enhanced multitasking, running Android applications, or utilizing Linux environments, and for future-proofing the device.
• Processor: Requires a 64-bit x86 Intel or AMD processor. Entry-level Chromebooks often feature Intel Celeron, Intel Pentium, AMD A-series, or MediaTek Kompanio SoCs. Mid-range and premium devices offer Intel Core i3, i5, i7, or AMD Ryzen processors for more demanding tasks. Processors manufactured before 2010 may lead to a suboptimal user experience.
• Storage: A minimum of 16GB of internal storage is required for the operating system. 32GB is suitable for basic web usage. For users planning to install Android or Linux applications, or store local files, 64GB is recommended, with 128GB or more being ideal for power users and Chromebook Plus models.
• Display: While lower resolutions exist on budget models, a Full HD (1920x1080) display is recommended for a good user experience, particularly on mid-sized Chromebooks. Chromebook Plus models mandate a minimum of FHD resolution.
• Ports: Standard Chromebooks include USB-A and/or USB-C ports. Video output ports (e.g., HDMI) are common for external display connectivity, and many devices feature an SD card slot for expandable storage.
• Operating System: N/A (it is the operating system).

Analysis of Technical Requirements

ChromeOS 90 maintains the platform's reputation for being lightweight, enabling it to run effectively on modest hardware configurations. The emphasis on cloud services means less reliance on high-end local specifications compared to traditional operating systems. However, the increasing integration of Android and Linux applications means that devices with 8GB RAM and 64GB+ storage offer a significantly more versatile and responsive experience, especially for users who push beyond basic web browsing. The processor choice impacts overall snappiness, with Intel Core or AMD Ryzen series providing a noticeable performance boost for multitasking.

Support & Compatibility

ChromeOS 90 benefits from Google's continuous development and broad compatibility across its ecosystem.

• Latest Version: ChromeOS 90 is an older version of the operating system. ChromeOS devices receive frequent, automatic updates to the latest stable version, ensuring ongoing feature enhancements and security patches.
• OS Support: ChromeOS 90 runs on a wide array of Chromebook hardware from various manufacturers. It offers robust support for web applications, Android applications (via the Google Play Store), and Linux applications (through a built-in virtual machine).
• End of Support Date: Support for ChromeOS is tied to the Auto Update Expiration (AUE) date of the specific Chromebook device. This date, set by Google and the hardware manufacturer, signifies when a device will no longer receive official software updates.
• Localization: ChromeOS supports a broad range of languages and regional settings, catering to a global user base.
• Available Drivers: Driver management is largely transparent to the user. Google and hardware manufacturers integrate necessary drivers directly into ChromeOS, and updates are delivered automatically with system updates, eliminating the need for manual driver installation.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

ChromeOS 90, as part of the ChromeOS ecosystem, offers excellent support and compatibility. The automatic update mechanism is a significant advantage, ensuring devices remain current and secure without user intervention. Compatibility with Android and Linux applications extends its utility beyond web-centric tasks, making it a versatile platform for a wider range of software. The device-specific AUE date is a critical consideration for long-term planning, as it dictates the lifespan of official software support.

Security Status

ChromeOS 90 incorporates a multi-layered security architecture designed to protect users from various online and offline threats.

• Security Features:
  • Verified Boot: Ensures the integrity of the operating system every time the device starts, preventing unauthorized modifications.
  • Read-only OS: Core system files are protected in a read-only state, making it difficult for malware to alter the operating system.
  • Sandboxing: Isolates browser tabs and applications in restricted environments, preventing malicious code from affecting other parts of the system or user data.
  • Automatic Updates: Delivers continuous security patches and feature updates in the background, ensuring protection against the latest threats.
  • Built-in Malware Protection: Automatically scans downloaded files and includes an always-up-to-date antivirus.
  • Data Encryption: System-level encryption (AES 256-bit) protects all user data, including the Chrome browser profile, on the local disk. This is tied to user login credentials.
  • Google Security Chip (H1/TPM): Provides hardware-backed defense, protecting user data, encryption keys, and preventing brute-force attacks.
  • Safe Browsing and Site Isolation: Features inherited from the Chrome browser to protect against malicious websites and downloads.
  • Data Access Protection: For USB4 and external PCI peripherals, acting as a one-way valve to mitigate physical connections from reaching data.
• Known Vulnerabilities: Google regularly identifies and patches vulnerabilities through its continuous automatic update process. Specific vulnerabilities present in ChromeOS 90 at its release were addressed in subsequent updates, maintaining a strong security posture.
• Blacklist Status: N/A for an operating system version.
• Certifications: ChromeOS adheres to industry security standards, though specific certifications for ChromeOS 90 itself are not publicly detailed. Google's enterprise offerings often meet various compliance requirements.
• Encryption Support: All user data on ChromeOS devices is encrypted by default using AES 256-bit encryption. This involves unique "vault" directories and keysets for each user, tied to their login credentials. The Trusted Platform Module (TPM) or H1 security chip enhances protection against brute-force attacks.
• Authentication Methods: Supports Google account authentication (username and password). It also offers Smart Unlock, Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) options (e.g., OTP over SMS, push notifications, Google Authenticator, biometrics, hardware tokens), and passwordless authentication via digital certificates. For enterprise users, SAML-based authentication is supported.
• General Recommendations: Users should ensure their devices are always connected to the internet to receive automatic updates. Employing strong, unique passwords and enabling 2FA/MFA for Google accounts significantly enhances security. For local data encryption, using a separate local password instead of the Google account password is an option for enhanced privacy.

Analysis of Overall Security Rating

ChromeOS 90 provides an exceptionally strong security rating. Its "security by design" philosophy, featuring Verified Boot, a read-only OS, extensive sandboxing, and mandatory automatic updates, creates a highly resilient environment against malware and unauthorized access. Hardware-backed security chips and robust encryption for user data further solidify its defense. The platform's proactive approach minimizes the attack surface and reduces the need for users to be security experts.

Performance & Benchmarks

ChromeOS 90 focuses on delivering a fast, responsive, and energy-efficient user experience, particularly for web-based tasks.

• Benchmark Scores: Specific benchmark scores for ChromeOS 90 are not readily available as performance is highly dependent on the underlying hardware of individual Chromebook models.
• Real-World Performance Metrics: ChromeOS 90 is known for fast boot times (often under 10 seconds) and a fluid experience for web browsing, streaming media, and light productivity tasks. Performance can vary based on RAM and processor, with 4GB RAM being sufficient for basic use but 8GB significantly improving multitasking and the performance of Android/Linux applications.
• Power Consumption: Chromebooks are generally energy-efficient, with average power consumption around 45 watts per hour. Actual power usage and battery life depend on the specific model, screen brightness, Wi-Fi usage, and the number of active applications.
• Carbon Footprint: While not directly measured for ChromeOS 90, the operating system's efficiency and ability to run on lower-power hardware contribute to a generally lower energy consumption profile for Chromebook devices, which can translate to a smaller carbon footprint compared to more power-intensive computing platforms.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: ChromeOS is often compared to Windows and macOS. It typically outperforms these operating systems in boot speed and resource efficiency on comparable low-to-mid-range hardware, especially for web-centric workflows. However, it historically offers less native support for traditional desktop applications, though this gap is narrowed by Android and Linux app compatibility.

Analysis of Overall Performance Status

ChromeOS 90 delivers excellent performance for its core purpose: a fast, secure, and easy-to-use platform for web and cloud-based activities. Its lightweight nature ensures quick boot-ups and smooth operation on a variety of hardware. While not designed for high-end gaming or demanding local software, it excels in efficiency and battery life, particularly on ARM-based processors. The integration of Android and Linux apps expands its capabilities, though these can demand more resources, making higher RAM and storage configurations beneficial for optimal performance.

User Reviews & Feedback

User feedback for ChromeOS 90 generally highlights its strengths in usability and efficiency, with improvements in key areas.

• Strengths: Users appreciate the continued fast boot times, straightforward interface, and robust security features. The introduction of Live Captions for video, an improved Diagnostics app for system health checks, and enhanced Launcher search capabilities were well-received. Offline access to Google Drive files and a more intuitive "Tote" for file management also improved productivity. The addition of a stylus battery indicator was a welcome detail for pen users.
• Weaknesses: While ChromeOS 90 addressed some limitations, historical feedback often pointed to a reliance on internet connectivity and a perceived lack of full-fledged desktop application support compared to Windows or macOS. For users requiring specific legacy software or high-performance local gaming, ChromeOS might still be seen as less suitable.
• Recommended Use Cases: ChromeOS 90 is highly recommended for educational settings, light productivity tasks, web browsing, and as a secure, easy-to-manage device for shared environments. Its simplicity and low maintenance make it ideal for users who primarily work within a web browser and cloud services.

Summary

Google ChromeOS 90 represents a stable and feature-rich iteration of Google's cloud-first operating system, released in April 2021. It continues to build on the core tenets of speed, simplicity, and security that define the ChromeOS experience. The operating system is designed to run efficiently on a wide range of Chromebook hardware, requiring modest specifications such as a 64-bit x86 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 16GB of storage for basic functionality. However, for a more robust experience, especially with the increasing integration of Android and Linux applications, 8GB of RAM and 64GB or more of storage are highly recommended.

Strengths of ChromeOS 90 include its rapid boot times, intuitive user interface, and a comprehensive, multi-layered security architecture. Features like Verified Boot, a read-only OS, extensive sandboxing, and continuous automatic updates provide a strong defense against malware and unauthorized access. Hardware-backed security chips and default AES 256-bit encryption for all user data further enhance its security posture. New features introduced in version 90, such as Live Captions, an improved Diagnostics app, enhanced Launcher search, and better offline file access for Google Drive, significantly improve usability and productivity. The platform's compatibility with Android and Linux applications extends its versatility, making it suitable for a broader range of tasks beyond simple web browsing.

While ChromeOS 90 excels in its intended use cases, its primary weakness, historically, has been a perceived limitation in offline functionality and native desktop application support compared to traditional operating systems. Although version 90 made strides in offline capabilities, users heavily reliant on specific legacy software or high-performance local computing might find it less suitable. Power consumption is generally low, contributing to excellent battery life, particularly on ARM-based devices.

Overall, ChromeOS 90 is an excellent choice for users and organizations prioritizing security, ease of management, and a streamlined, web-centric workflow. It is highly recommended for educational institutions, businesses seeking manageable endpoints, and individual users who primarily leverage cloud services and web applications. For optimal performance and versatility, investing in Chromebooks with at least 8GB of RAM and sufficient storage for anticipated Android and Linux app usage is advisable.

The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.