Chromebooks are easy-to-use laptops that are built around going online. They use Google’s Chrome operating system, which is based on apps and web services. That means there’s no need to download large programs or lots of software. And with access to the Google Play store, you’ve got about 3.5 million Android apps to choose from!

This article’s all about showing you how to factory reset a Chromebook. You’ll want to do this if you’re selling yours, giving it away to a friend or family member, or trading it in.

What does a Chromebook factory reset mean?

Performing a factory reset on a Chromebook will erase all previously saved user data, settings, and installed apps. It gives you a completely clean slate, and resets everything to its default settings.

A factory reset can also help solve any problems or technical issues you might be having. For example, if you need to recover your Chromebook. Speaking of…

How to recover a Chromebook

If your Chromebook isn’t booting up or working properly, try one one of the potential fixes below to try and recover it:

1. Restart your Chromebook: Sometimes, this is all it takes to fix minor issues.

2. Sign in with your Google account: It’s worth double-checking that you’re actually signing in with the Google account that’s associated with your Chromebook.

3. Check your internet connection: Make sure your Chromebook is using a stable and working internet connection.

4. Update your operating system: Check if there any available updates for Chrome OS. If there are, install them.

If none of those solutions work, then you’ll have to go ahead and factory reset your Chromebook. We’ve got all the steps you’ll need down below.

How to factory reset a Chromebook when you’re logged in

Follow these steps to perform a factory reset on your Chromebook while you're logged in:

1. Click on the clock in the bottom-right corner of the screen.

2. Select the gear icon to open the Settings menu.

3. Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on ‘Advanced’.

4. Go to the ‘Powerwash" section and click ‘Reset’.

5. Select ‘Restart’ and the factory reset process will begin.

Important: Make sure you back up any important files before doing this. Remember, a factory reset erases all of your saved data and settings.

FAQs

How do I perform a hard reset on a Chromebook?

Follow these instructions to perform a hard reset on your Chromebook:

1. Press and hold the ‘Refresh’ (circular arrow) key.

2. While you’re holding down the ‘Refresh’ key, press and hold the ‘Power’ button.

3. Keep holding both buttons for about 10-15 seconds or until the Chromebook restarts.

Important: Performing a hard reset will force your Chromebook to restart abruptly, so make sure to save any work before you do it.

What is ‘powerwashing’ a Chromebook?

There’s no difference between powerwashing and factory resetting a Chromebook. Both terms mean the same thing, and refer to the process of returning the Chromebook to its factory state.

How do I factory reset a Chromebook without logging in?

Follow these steps if you need to factory reset your Chromebook without logging in:

1. Turn off the Chromebook completely.

2. Press and hold down the ‘Esc’, ‘Refresh, and ‘Power’ buttons simultaneously.

3. Release the buttons when you see a message saying "Chrome OS is missing or damaged".

4. Press ‘Ctrl + D’ to enter Developer Mode.

5. Press ‘Enter’ to enable Developer Mode.

6. Your Chromebook will now reset itself. This process might take a few minutes.

7. You'll now see a screen with a yellow exclamation mark. Press ‘Ctrl + D’ again to proceed with the factory reset.

8. Your Chromebook will now start the factory reset process.

Important: Entering Developer Mode might void your warranty, so be sure to check before you go ahead!

How do I factory reset a Chromebook without a password?

Follow these steps if you need to factory reset a Chromebook without a password:

1. Turn off your Chromebook completely.

2. Press and hold the ‘Refresh’ (circular arrow) key.

3. While you’re holding down the ‘Refresh’ key, press and hold the ‘Power’ button.

4. Continue holding the keys until you see a "Chrome OS is missing or damaged" message

5. Release the keys and follow the on-screen instructions to perform a factory reset.

Can I factory reset a school Chromebook?

If your Chromebook is managed by a school or other business organisation, you won’t be able to reset it yourself. You’ll need to ask the system administrator to do it for you.

Need more help?

Looking for more Chromebook tips? Find out how to right click on a Chromebook here. And here’s how to take a screenshot on a Chromebook if you’re stuck on that.