Fix a problem

Reset your Chrome device

You can clear all local user data stored your Chrome device by resetting your Chrome device to its original factory state, also known as powerwash. This step might be helpful if you want to reset owner permissions or if you're experiencing issues with your user profile.

All data stored on your Chrome device such as downloaded files, photos, owner permissions, and saved networks, will be deleted for all accounts when performing a factory reset. After clearing this data, you'll be guided through the initial setup again. Resetting your device will not affect your accounts themselves, or any data synced to these accounts.

Follow these steps to reset your Chrome device to its original factory state:

  1. Click the status area in the lower-right corner, where your account picture appears.
  2. Select Settings and click Show advanced settings at the bottom of the page.
  3. Find the "Powerwash" section and click Reset.
  4. In the dialogue box that opens, select Restart.

You can also reset your Chrome device from the sign-in screen by holding down the keys Ctrl+Alt+Shift+R and clicking Restart.

If you have a Chromebook Pixel, Samsung Chromebook, or Acer C7 Chromebook, press Esc+Refresh then hold down the Power button. If you are an Enterprise Chrome device customer, view these troubleshooting instructions on a managed Chrome device.

After restarting your Chrome device, you should now see the setup screen. Follow the instructions on the screen to set up your Chrome device again. Make sure you sign in with your primary Google Account, because this account will be set as the owner account. See detailed setup instructions