A:AnswerMS Excel works on my Chromebook after I switched to Linux. I never do much under chrome OS, but I heard there is an online version you can use. I recommend you to use LibreOffice if it is work. I think using Google excel works.
Disclaimer: I am not liable for any damages that incurred by my comment.
A:AnswerYou can access Google Drive offline access if you set it up to do so.
While connected to the Internet, go to your Google Chrome browser.
Go to drive.google.com/drive/settings.
Go to the "Offline" section and check the box.
It may take a few minutes for the offline access setting to turn on.
A:AnswerThey are free to use and are an integrated part of Gmail. They're based online, used through the web browser and not downloaded onto the Chromebook so there's no need to upgrade or download new versions ever.