How To Powerwash Your Chromebook

Before you begin

The Google account that signs into the Chromebook after powerwashing will be considered the new owner, so make sure you login with the appropriate account.

Whether it's due to a change in ownership of the device, or you just want your Chromebook to feel factory-fresh, one of the many great features of Chrome OS is the ability to powerwash it. Powerwashing is the same as a factory reset. All information and files are erased from the Chromebook's hard drive. 

There are two ways to powerwash a Chromebook. The first way uses shortcut keys and the second way uses the Chrome OS Settings menu. Both methods achieve the same result so just choose the method that you are most comfortable with.

Powerwash Chromebook by using shortcut keys

1. Begin by signing out of your Chromebook.

2. Once you have signed out of your Chromebook, press and hold the Ctrl + Alt + Shift + R keys on your keyboard.

Ctrl, R, Alt, and Shift keys highlighted on a Chromebook keyboard

3. Select the Restart option.

Reset Chrome device screen showing on a Chromebook

4. A screen will appear asking you to confirm that you want to reset the device. Click Powerwash and Reset, then Continue.

Reset confirmation screen on Chromebook during powerwash

5. Complete the on-screen prompts. After you finish all the prompts, you’ll be asked to sign in with your Google account. The Google account that signs into the Chromebook after powerwashing will be considered the new owner, so make sure you login with the appropriate account.

Powerwash Chromebook by using Chrome OS Settings menu 

1. While signed into your Chromebook, click on the taskbar in the lower right hand corner. Click Settings.

Settings button on the taskbar on a Chromebook

2. From the settings pop-up window, scroll to the bottom until you see Advanced.

Advanced button in Chromebook settings menu

3. Click Reset settings.

4. Select the powerwash option within this category, followed by Restart.

Restart device option in Chromebook settings menu

5. Your Chromebook will reboot you will be prompted to complete a few more steps. After you finish all the on-screen prompts, you’ll be asked to sign in with your Google account. The Google account that signs into the Chromebook after powerwashing will be considered the new owner, so make sure you login with the appropriate account.

 

Powerwashing is a simple, effective way to revert your Chromebook to factory settings and prepare it for a new employee, kiosk, or whatever you might need it for.

Chrome and Promevo

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You can shop Chrome devices on our online store or get in contact with one of our sales advisors if you have more questions! If you need additional support or training, we are here for you. All Promevo customers get free support from our Google certified specialists. You can search our Knowledge Base, talk to our support team, or even schedule free training.