How To Factory Reset a Chromebook

Jeni_Odley

Google Chromebooks are user-friendly laptops that are designed for going online. Chromebooks are suitable for light use and encourage users to save documents to the Cloud  rather than the device itself. Instead of including a bunch of fancy features, Chromebooks offer a slimmed-down set of functions and capabilities. Google Chromebooks use the Chrome OS, a Linux-based operating system previously used by  computer enthusiasts. Chromebooks are optimized for streamlined web-based usage, allowing users to browse the web, work on Google Docs, watch videos, and send emails without being bogged down with unnecessary files and apps.

What is a factory reset?

Occasionally, users may wish to return a Chromebook to its default factory state. This is known as a factory reset, or Powerwash in Google terms, and erases all data, settings, and installed applications. 

Why would you want to Powerwash a Chromebook?

There are two main reasons why users may wish to Powerwash a Chromebook. Although the Chromebook OS is not as complex as other operating systems, stubborn issues that are only resolved by a factory reset may still creep up. Moreover, it is also advisable to Powerwash a Chromebook to remove all personal data when selling it to a new user. 

Some friendly reminders before Powerwashing a Chromebook

Files saved to the Chromebook local storage are usually stored in the Downloads folder, which should be backed up before initiating a Powerwash. Although most user-specific documents are saved on the Cloud, Powerwashing a Chromebook removes local files and settings that cannot be recovered once this action is complete. Moreover, all previously used Google accounts and associated settings will be removed during a Powerwash, so usernames and passwords should be safely noted down elsewhere.

How to factory reset a Chromebook

There are two ways you can return a Chromebook to its default state. The first is through the Chrome Browser.

1. Open the Chrome browser.
2. Click the three vertical dots in the upper right-hand corner of the browser window.
3. Select Settings.
4. Click Advanced.
5. Scroll to find the Reset settings and select Powerwash.
6. A pop-up dialog will appear. Click Restart.
7. The Chromebook will restart and begin the Powerwash process. 
8. When prompted, sign in with your Google Account credentials if required.

Another way to factory reset a Chromebook is via the login screen.

1. When the Chrome OS login screen is showing, and before authenticating, press Shift+Ctrl+Alt+R.
2. A pop-up dialog will appear. Click Restart.
3. The Chromebook will restart and return to the login page. 
4. Another pop-up dialog will appear. Click Powerwash, then click Confirm Powerwash.
5. The Powerwash process will begin. 
6. When prompted, sign in with your Google Account credentials if required.

It may not be possible to Powerwash a publicly used Chromebook used for workplace or school purposes.

Back to basics: factory resetting a Chromebook

It may occasionally be necessary to factory reset, or Powerwash, a Chromebook due to ongoing issues or before selling the device to a new user. It is crucial to remember that this action will permanently delete all files, applications, and settings that were not there when the device was new. Users can Powerwash a Chromebook either through the Chrome browser or the login screen, signing into their Google Account after the process is complete.