CACHelp

Use CAC on Chromebook (ChromeOS)

ChromeOS supports CAC via the Smart Card Connector extension. Works well on most Chromebooks.

~15 min · 4 steps

Stuck on a specific error? Describe it to the AI assistant for a tailored fix — or check our error code reference.

Steps

  1. 1

    Install Smart Card Connector

    From the Chrome Web Store, install 'Smart Card Connector' (by Google) and 'CACKey' (or OpenSC). Both required.

  2. 2

    Plug in reader, insert CAC

    USB CAC reader → Chromebook USB port → insert CAC. Click the Smart Card Connector icon to verify the reader is recognized.

  3. 3

    Import DoD certs

    Open chrome://settings/certificates → Authorities → Import — add each DoD Root CA from AllCerts.zip. Trust for 'Identifying websites'.

  4. 4

    Navigate to .mil site

    Open Chrome, go to your site, pick cert when prompted, enter PIN.

Common problems

Extension not seeing reader

Reload chrome://extensions, toggle Smart Card Connector off and on.

Managed Chromebook

If your Chromebook is enrolled in a school/work organization, the admin may block smart card extensions — contact your IT admin.

Still stuck?

Ask the AI assistant