Unlocking Chromebook Kiosk Mode: A Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Chromebook kiosk mode. Whether you’re a Chrome administrator or a developer looking to customize your Chrome apps, kiosk mode can provide a valuable solution for creating single-purpose devices. In this guide, we’ll explore how to enable and set up kiosk mode on Chromebook devices, as well as the benefits and features it offers. Let’s dive in and unlock the full potential of Chromebook kiosk mode!

Key Takeaways:

• Chromebook kiosk mode allows for the configuration of single-purpose devices.
• Administrators can auto-launch kiosk apps on ChromeOS devices.
• Kiosk apps can control the Chrome version on a device for stability and compatibility.
• Administrators have control over the URLs that kiosk apps can access.
• Exiting kiosk mode requires specific steps depending on the operating system.

Auto-launching a Kiosk App on ChromeOS Devices

To effortlessly launch a kiosk app on your ChromeOS devices, simply access the powerful Google Admin console. From there, select the appropriate organizational unit and choose the desired app that you want to automatically launch. This feature transforms your devices into single-purpose tools, making them perfect for scenarios where user interaction isn’t controlled with a keyboard and mouse.

With the auto-launch capability, you have the flexibility to deploy multiple kiosk apps. However, please note that only one app can be configured to automatically launch when the devices start up.

Unlock the full potential of your ChromeOS devices by seamlessly integrating them with your chosen kiosk app. Take advantage of the auto-launch feature available through the Google Admin console, and create a digital signage solution or streamline user interactions with ease.

Stay in control of your ChromeOS environment and customize the user experience to suit your specific needs. Make the most of every opportunity with auto-launch apps on ChromeOS!

“The auto-launch feature transforms ChromeOS devices into efficient and focused digital signs or interactive tools, enabling businesses and institutions to enhance user experiences and streamline operations.”

Letting a Kiosk App Control the Chrome Version

Administrators have the option to let a kiosk app control the Chrome version on a device running ChromeOS. This feature is especially valuable when the app or certain features of the app are not compatible with the latest Chrome release. By allowing the kiosk app to control the Chrome version, administrators can ensure device stability and optimize compatibility.

To enable this functionality, administrators need to set the desired ChromeOS version in the app’s manifest file. The manifest file contains important metadata about the app, including its version and configuration settings. By specifying the required Chrome version in the manifest file, administrators can ensure that the app works seamlessly on devices with that Chrome version.

In addition to updating the manifest file, administrators can configure the device settings in the Google Admin console to allow the kiosk app to control the Chrome version. This can be done by navigating to the appropriate device settings and granting the necessary permissions for Chrome version control.

It is crucial for administrators to carefully consider the implications and risks associated with allowing a kiosk app to control the Chrome version. While it can provide compatibility benefits, it is essential to thoroughly test the app’s compatibility with the desired Chrome version before enabling this feature. Administrators should ensure that the app functions as intended and does not compromise device stability or compromise the overall user experience.

Benefits of Letting a Kiosk App Control the Chrome Version
1. Improved compatibility with the kiosk app
2. Enhanced device stability
3. Ensured optimal performance of the app
4. Minimized potential conflicts with the latest Chrome version

By carefully managing the Chrome version controlled by a kiosk app, administrators can provide a reliable and compatible kiosk experience for users. This ensures that the app functions smoothly and efficiently, reducing the risk of compatibility issues or performance limitations.

Specifying URLs Kiosk Apps Can Access

Administrators have the ability to control the specific URLs that kiosk apps can access on ChromeOS devices. This feature provides granular control over website access, ensuring a secure and tailored browsing experience for users. By leveraging the Google Admin console and accessing the device settings, administrators can easily specify blocked URLs that should be prohibited for kiosk apps and define exceptions for URLs that should be allowed, even if they are on the blocked URLs list.

URL blocking and allowing are valuable tools for organizations to ensure that kiosk apps only access authorized websites, preventing potential security risks and unauthorized browsing. This feature is especially crucial for businesses, schools, and other environments where strict web access control is necessary.

With the URLAllowlist feature in the Google Admin console, administrators can effortlessly define the list of URLs that kiosk apps are allowed to access. This enables them to customize the browsing experience and ensure that users are limited to the desired websites.

Additionally, administrators can make exceptions to provide access to specific URLs, even if those URLs are blocked by default. This level of flexibility allows for a more tailored approach to web access control, accommodating any specific needs or requirements of the organization.

“URLAllowlist in the Google Admin console grants administrators the power to define which URLs kiosk apps can access, giving them full control over the web browsing experience on ChromeOS devices.”

By utilizing the URLAllowlist feature, administrators can effectively manage and regulate web access for kiosk apps on ChromeOS devices. This not only enhances security, but also ensures that users are provided with the necessary resources and information while using kiosk apps.

An optimized URLAllowlist configuration in the Google Admin console guarantees that kiosk apps are limited to authorized websites, preventing distractions and promoting a focused user experience. Furthermore, administrators can easily update the URLs whenever necessary, adapting to changing requirements and maintaining a secure browsing environment.

Benefits of Specifying URLs for Kiosk Apps:

• Enhanced security by restricting access to authorized websites
• Prevention of unauthorized browsing and potential security risks
• Customization of the browsing experience to fit organizational needs
• Flexibility to define exceptions for specific allowed URLs
• Promotion of a focused user experience and prevention of distractions

By leveraging the URLAllowlist feature in the Google Admin console, administrators can confidently manage web access for kiosk apps on ChromeOS devices, ensuring a secure and controlled browsing experience for users.

How to Exit Kiosk Mode on Different Operating Systems

Exiting kiosk mode on different operating systems requires specific steps highlighted below:

For iPad users, follow these steps:

1. Press the Home button three times.
2. Enter the passcode to exit Guided Access mode.

On Windows 10 and Windows 11, follow these steps:

1. Sign in using another Windows account to exit kiosk mode.

For Android devices, the method varies depending on the specific kiosk app being used. Please refer to the app’s documentation for instructions on how to exit kiosk mode.

For Chromebook users, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the device.
2. While the device is booting, press Ctrl+Alt+S.
3. Enter the kiosk mode user account password.

Exiting kiosk mode on different operating systems involves specific steps tailored for each platform. By following these instructions, users can successfully exit kiosk mode and regain access to the full functionality of their devices.

Exiting Kiosks Using an MDM Platform

While it is possible to manually exit kiosk mode, leveraging a mobile device management (MDM) platform for kiosk mode management is highly recommended. MDM platforms such as Hexnode, Jamf Pro, Esper, and Microsoft Enterprise Mobility + Security offer centralized management capabilities that simplify the kiosk lifecycle and provide additional benefits for organizations.

One of the key advantages of using an MDM platform for kiosk mode management is the ability to exit kiosk mode and perform remote wipes if needed. This feature enhances security and enables administrators to quickly resolve any issues or incidents that may arise.

Let’s take a closer look at some popular MDM platforms:

Hexnode

Hexnode is a comprehensive MDM platform that offers robust kiosk mode management for Chromebook devices. With Hexnode, administrators can easily exit kiosk mode and remotely wipe devices, ensuring swift and efficient device management.

Jamf Pro

Jamf Pro provides centralized management for Chromebook kiosk mode. By leveraging the Jamf Pro console, IT administrators can seamlessly exit kiosk mode and perform remote wipes when necessary, allowing for efficient control over kiosks within the organization.

Esper

Esper specializes in Android kiosk management. Its console empowers end users to remotely control and troubleshoot Android kiosks. Exiting kiosk mode with Esper is as simple as accessing the Esper console, selecting the desired device, and choosing the “Exit Kiosk” option.

Microsoft Enterprise Mobility + Security

Microsoft Enterprise Mobility + Security (EMS) offers comprehensive kiosk mode management for Windows devices. IT administrators can utilize the Azure portal to modify kiosk mode profiles and seamlessly exit kiosk mode, providing flexibility and control over Windows kiosks.

By utilizing an MDM platform for kiosk mode management, organizations can optimize the efficiency of device management, simplify the kiosk lifecycle, and ensure secure and tailored user experiences on Chromebook devices.

Comparison Table: MDM Platforms for Kiosk Mode Management

MDM Platform	Key Features
Hexnode	– Robust kiosk mode management for Chromebook devices – Remote wipe capability
Jamf Pro	– Centralized management for Chromebook kiosk mode – Remote wipe functionality
Esper	– Specialized Android kiosk management – Remote shutdown of Android kiosks
Microsoft Enterprise Mobility + Security	– Comprehensive kiosk mode management for Windows devices – Centralized control through Azure portal

When managing kiosk mode on Chromebook devices, leveraging an MDM platform offers enhanced control, scalability, and security compared to manual management processes.

Exiting Kiosk Mode with Jamf Pro

Jamf Pro offers a comprehensive solution for central kiosk management on Chromebook devices. With its intuitive interface and powerful features, IT administrators can efficiently govern the kiosks throughout their lifecycle, ensuring smooth operation and security.

One of the essential capabilities of Jamf Pro is the ability to exit kiosk mode when necessary. This functionality allows administrators to easily disable kiosk mode on a device and return it to its default state, giving users full access to the device’s functionality.

Furthermore, Jamf Pro provides the IT department with the ability to perform remote wipes on devices. In situations where a device is lost or stolen, administrators can remotely wipe the device to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information.

The process of exiting kiosk mode and performing remote wipes is simple and can be accomplished through the Jamf Pro console. Administrators can follow these steps:

1. Select the desired device in the Jamf Pro console.
2. Navigate to the Management tab.
3. Modify the kiosk mode profile to disable kiosk mode and return the device to its default state.
4. If necessary, initiate a remote wipe to ensure the security of sensitive data.

Jamf Pro empowers IT administrators with the tools they need for efficient kiosk management. The centralized control and remote management capabilities provided by Jamf Pro offer unparalleled convenience and security for organizations deploying Chromebook kiosks.

Benefits of Exiting Kiosk Mode with Jamf Pro
Jamf Pro ensures centralized management for kiosk mode.
Effortlessly exit kiosk mode and return devices to their default state.
Perform remote wipes to protect sensitive data.
Efficiently manage the entire lifecycle of kiosks through the intuitive Jamf Pro console.

Exiting Kiosk Mode with Esper

Esper offers a user-friendly solution for managing Android kiosks, providing convenient features for remote shutdown, device management, and troubleshooting. With Esper, end users have the power to exit kiosk mode effortlessly through the Esper console. By following a few simple steps, users can swiftly shut down the kiosk remotely and exit kiosk mode, ensuring smooth operation and efficient device management.

To remotely exit kiosk mode with Esper:

1. Access the Esper console.
2. Select the desired Android kiosk device.
3. Choose the “Exit Kiosk” option.

With just a few clicks, users can seamlessly exit kiosk mode and regain full control over their Android kiosks. This capability simplifies device management and troubleshooting, enabling users to quickly address any issues or make necessary adjustments to customize their kiosk setup.

Esper’s intuitive console empowers users to handle Android kiosk management efficiently, ensuring optimal performance and eliminating the need for manual intervention. By leveraging Esper’s remote control and troubleshooting capabilities, users can streamline their device management process, saving time and resources.

Experience the convenience of managing Android kiosks effortlessly with Esper’s comprehensive console and simplified remote shutdown functionality.

Kiosk Management Benefits with Esper	Benefits
Efficient Remote Control	Manage Android kiosks effectively from a centralized console.
Streamlined Troubleshooting	Easily address issues and make adjustments to optimize kiosk performance.
Seamless Device Management	Take control of Android kiosks remotely, reducing manual intervention.
Enhanced Efficiency	Save time and resources with Esper’s intuitive console and streamlined workflows.

Exiting Kiosk Mode with Microsoft Enterprise Mobility + Security

Microsoft Enterprise Mobility + Security (EMS) provides the tools and capabilities for IT administrators to effectively manage kiosk mode on Windows devices. By leveraging the Azure portal and navigating to the Intune blade, administrators can easily modify the kiosk mode profile and make the necessary changes to exit kiosk mode.

Step-by-Step Guide: Exiting Kiosk Mode

1. First, log into the Azure portal, which provides a centralized platform for managing various aspects of Microsoft EMS.
2. Next, navigate to the Intune blade, where you can access the powerful device management capabilities offered by Microsoft EMS.
3. Select the Windows device for which you wish to exit kiosk mode. This will take you to the device’s management page.
4. Within the device management page, locate the kiosk mode profile applied to the device.
5. Modify the kiosk mode profile by changing the mode from multi-app to single-app. This action effectively exits kiosk mode and allows the device to be used in its regular functionality.

Exiting kiosk mode with Microsoft Enterprise Mobility + Security is a straightforward process that allows IT administrators to manage and control Windows kiosks with ease.

Benefits of Exiting Kiosk Mode with Microsoft EMS
Efficient device management
Centralized control over kiosk mode
Seamless transition back to regular device functionality
Streamlined user experience

Manually Enrolling ChromeOS Devices

Enrolling ChromeOS devices is an essential step for administrators to enforce device policies and effectively manage their fleet. The enrollment process can be done manually by following these simple steps:

1. Turn on the device and proceed to the sign-in screen.
2. Click on the “Enterprise enrollment” option or use the Ctrl+Alt+E keyboard shortcut.
3. Provide the necessary information such as the username, password, asset ID, and location during the enrollment process.

Enrolling devices ensures compliance with the policies set in the Google Admin console and enables administrators to quickly and efficiently manage ChromeOS devices within their organization.

Benefits of Manual Enrollment:

Manually enrolling ChromeOS devices offers several advantages:

• Full control over the enrollment process, ensuring accurate data entry and device identification.
• Customization options to tailor the enrollment experience to specific organizational needs.
• Increased security by requiring authentication during the enrollment process.

By taking the time to manually enroll devices, administrators can ensure seamless device management and maintain the integrity of their Google Admin console.

Benefits of Manual Enrollment
Full control over the enrollment process	✓
Customization options	✓
Increased security	✓

Enroll devices manually to ensure a smooth and secure device management process on ChromeOS. This method provides administrators with full control over the enrollment process, allowing for customization and enhanced security. By following the on-screen instructions and providing the required information, devices can be enrolled successfully in the Google Admin console, enabling efficient policy enforcement and device management.

Letting Users Enter Details During Enrollment

To streamline device management and facilitate accurate monitoring, administrators can allow users to enter or edit identifying information about the device during the enrollment process. This can be configured in the Google Admin console under Enrollment controls, where administrators can choose to enable users to provide the asset ID and location during enrollment. This feature helps ensure that devices are properly identified and categorized in the Admin console for easy management.

Conclusion

When it comes to device management, Chromebook kiosk mode is a valuable feature that can greatly benefit organizations. By using a robust mobile device management (MDM) platform, administrators can streamline the configuration, deployment, and management of kiosk apps on ChromeOS devices. This provides efficient device management and centralized control, allowing for a tailored and secure user experience.

With the proper setup and management, Chromebook kiosk mode enables organizations to create single-purpose devices that meet their specific needs. Whether it’s in a school setting, retail environment, or any other use case, kiosk mode on Chromebooks allows administrators to customize the device experience to suit their requirements.

An MDM platform ensures efficient device management by offering centralized control and the ability to easily exit kiosk mode when necessary. By leveraging the capabilities of platforms such as Hexnode, Jamf Pro, Esper, or Microsoft Enterprise Mobility + Security, administrators can remotely wipe devices, manage settings, and maintain a secure and productive device fleet.

By embracing Chromebook kiosk mode and utilizing an MDM platform, organizations can optimize device management, enhance security, and create a seamless user experience. Investing in efficient device management solutions like Chromebook kiosk mode and MDM platforms is a smart choice for businesses and institutions that value streamlined operations and productivity.

FAQ

What is kiosk mode on a Chromebook?

Kiosk mode on a Chromebook is a feature that allows administrators to configure a device to run specific apps automatically, providing a single-purpose user experience.

How do I enable kiosk mode on a Chromebook?

To enable kiosk mode on a Chromebook, administrators can navigate to the Google Admin console, select the appropriate organizational unit, and choose the desired app to launch automatically.

Can a kiosk app control the Chrome version on a Chromebook?

Yes, administrators have the option to let a kiosk app control the Chrome version on a Chromebook. This can improve stability and compatibility if the app or certain features are not compatible with the latest Chrome release.

How can I specify which URLs a kiosk app can access on a Chromebook?

Administrators can use the Google Admin console to specify blocked URLs that kiosk apps should not be able to access, and define exceptions for URLs that should be allowed.

How do I exit kiosk mode on different operating systems?

Exiting kiosk mode on an iPad involves pressing the Home button three times and entering the passcode. On Windows 10 and 11, users can sign in using another Windows account. For Android, the method varies depending on the specific kiosk app being used. On a Chromebook, users can turn off the device, press Ctrl+Alt+S while it is booting, and enter the kiosk mode user account password.

Are there any benefits of using an MDM platform for kiosk mode management on Chromebooks?

Yes, using a mobile device management (MDM) platform like Hexnode, Jamf Pro, Esper, or Microsoft Enterprise Mobility + Security can streamline kiosk mode management, including the ability to exit kiosk mode and perform remote wipes if needed.

How do I exit kiosk mode on a Chromebook using Jamf Pro?

Administrators can use the Jamf Pro console to disable kiosk mode and return the Chromebook to its default state.

How do I exit kiosk mode on an Android device using Esper?

By accessing the Esper console, selecting the desired device, and choosing the Exit Kiosk option, users can shut down the kiosk remotely and exit kiosk mode.

How do I exit kiosk mode on a Windows device using Microsoft Enterprise Mobility + Security?

By logging into the Azure portal, navigating to the Intune blade, and selecting the device, administrators can modify the kiosk mode profile and change the mode from multi-app to single-app, effectively exiting kiosk mode.

How do I manually enroll ChromeOS devices?

To manually enroll ChromeOS devices, users can turn on the device, follow the on-screen instructions until reaching the sign-in screen, and then click on the Enterprise enrollment option or use the Ctrl+Alt+E keyboard shortcut.

Can users enter identifying information during the enrollment process?

Yes, administrators can configure the Google Admin console to allow users to provide the asset ID and location during the enrollment process to ensure proper device identification and management.

Why should I use a mobile device management (MDM) platform for kiosk mode management?

Using an MDM platform streamlines the configuration, deployment, and management of kiosk apps on ChromeOS devices, providing efficient device management, centralized control, and the ability to easily exit kiosk mode when necessary.