Reset your Chromebook

You can clear all local user data stored on your Chromebook through a procedure known as powerwash.

This might be helpful if you want to reset owner permissions or if you're experiencing issues with your user profile. If you have a used Chromebook, we recommend performing a full operating system recovery.

Important: Reinstalling the operating system restores your Chromebook to the way it was when it was brand new. Unfortunately, this means all of your data will be erased. Before you reinstall the operating system, you can move your files from your Chromebook to Google Drive so you don't lose them.

Reset a managed device

Do not follow the instructions below if you're using a managed Chrome device, as you will not be able to re-enroll your device after powerwashing it. You'll need to wipe device data instead.

Follow these steps to reset your Chromebook 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 Chromebook from the sign-in screen by holding down the keys Ctrl+Alt+Shift+R and clicking Restart. (If you are signed in to your Chromebook, sign out first, then use Ctrl+Alt+Shift+R. Then click Restart. Once the Chromebook restarts, click Reset.)

After you restart the Chromebook, you should now see the setup screen. Follow the instructions on the screen to set up your Chromebook 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

Discuss with other Chromies in Chromebook Central.

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