How to Reset a Chromebook to Factory Defaults

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Make your device as good as new with a quick Powerwash

Chromebooks are amazing computing devices as they are incredibly easy to use and reliable, with some of the best Chromebooks offering hardware that can compete with Windows laptops. If you’ve managed to get your hands on a new-to-you Chromebook, you may have the previous owner’s data installed. If so, here are a few ways to reset your Chromebook to factory settings.

What to keep in mind when resetting your Chromebook

Before you reset your device, there are a few important points to keep in mind:

  • Resetting your Chromebook will permanently remove all local files. If possible, before resetting your Chromebook, make sure all the files you need are backed up so you do not lose them. These files can not be recovered after resetting, make sure you have what you need.

    • All accounts on your Chromebook will be removed when the Chromebook is reset. Make sure all files from these accounts are backed up and that login information for these accounts is stored in a password manager.

  • Most Chromebook data is automatically backed up to the associated Google Account; however, neither Android app data nor Linux apps will be saved. Be sure to back up your Linux apps and Android app data manually before starting the reset process.

How to Reset a Chromebook to Factory Defaults Once Log In

In some cases, you may be signed in to your Chromebook when you decide it’s time to reset it. If so, here’s how to delete your device:

  1. open Settings app.

  2. Select on the left Advanced.

  3. click on Reset the settings possibility.

  4. Push on reset button.

  5. click Restart in the dialog box that appears.

Once the device is restarted, the reset should be complete. You will now be prompted to sign in to your Google Account and start the Chromebook setup process.

How to Reset a Chromebook to Factory Defaults from the Login Screen

If the previous owner did not remove their data from the Chromebook, you may not be able to sign in and reset it via the settings. Fortunately, there is still a way to reset the device from the login screen:

  1. Press simultaneously Move, Ctrl, Everythingand R.

  2. click on Restart button in the dialog box that appears.

  3. Once your Chromebook has restarted, select Powerwash button in the new dialog box that appears.

  4. Confirm that you want to powerwash your device by clicking Continue button.

Once this process is complete, your device will be reset and you will be prompted to sign in with a Google Account.

You are now ready to Powerwash your Chromebook should the need arise. If you notice that your laptop is slowing down but do not want to resort to a Powerwash, you may be able to resolve the issue using the Chrome OS Diagnostics app.


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About the author

Zach Traverso
(12 articles published)

Zach became an Android enthusiast in 2016 when he got his first Android phone, the A Motorola Droid Turbo 2, and has been following the industry ever since. Chromebooks have been a passion for Zach since he bought an original HP Chromebook x2, about which he writes all his articles. Zach is also an avid Google fan who has owned 2 Pixels and countless Chromecasts, Speakers and Pixel Buds.

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