student@ubuntu:~$
Guide ChromeOS

SSH from Chromebook

Connect to the CSCD 240 lab server from a Chromebook

Chromebooks do not have a native terminal, but there are two solid options.

Most Chromebooks made after 2019 support a built-in Linux environment. This gives you a real terminal with ssh.

Enable Linux

  1. Open Settings > Advanced > Developers
  2. Next to “Linux development environment,” click Turn on
  3. Follow the prompts (this downloads ~300 MB and takes a few minutes)
  4. When finished, a Terminal app appears in your app launcher

Connect via SSH

  1. Connect to GlobalProtect first (see VPN note below)
  2. Open the Terminal app
  3. Type:
ssh YOUR_USERNAME@TBD.ewu.edu

Replace YOUR_USERNAME with your EWU username (e.g., jdoner42). Accept the host key (yes) and enter your password.

Alternative: Secure Shell Extension

If your Chromebook does not support Linux or your school has disabled it:

  1. Open the Chrome browser
  2. Go to the Secure Shell extension in the Chrome Web Store
  3. Click Add to Chrome
  4. Open the extension (it appears as an app or via chrome-untrusted://terminal/)
  5. Fill in:
    • Username: your EWU username
    • Hostname: TBD.ewu.edu
    • Port: 22
  6. Click Connect, accept the host key, enter your password

VPN on Chromebook

GlobalProtect is available as an Android app on most Chromebooks:

  1. Open the Google Play Store
  2. Search for GlobalProtect
  3. Install the Palo Alto Networks GlobalProtect app
  4. Open it, enter portal: vpn.ewu.edu
  5. Sign in with your EWU credentials

If the Play Store is not available on your Chromebook, ask your instructor about alternative access.

Troubleshooting

Problem Fix
“Linux development environment” not available Your Chromebook may be too old or managed by a school that blocks it – use the Secure Shell extension instead
VPN won’t install Try the Secure Shell extension from a network that has direct access, or use a different device
Connection timed out Make sure GlobalProtect is connected