How to factory reset your Chromebook
Make your device brand new with Powerwash fast.
Chromebooks are great computing devices since they're incredibly easy to use and reliable, with some of the best Chromebooks offering hardware that rivals Windows laptops. If you can get a new Chromebook for you, you may have the previous owner's data installed. If so, here are some ways to reset your Chromebook to factory settings.
What to consider when resetting your Chromebook
Before resetting your device, there are a few basic points to keep in mind:
Resetting your Chromebook will permanently remove all local files. If possible, before resetting your Chromebook, make sure to back up all the files you need so you don't lose them. These files cannot be recovered after reset, so make sure you get what you need.
All accounts on your Chromebook will be removed when you reset your Chromebook. Make sure that all files from these accounts are backed up, and that the login information for these accounts is saved in the password manager.
Most Chromebook data is automatically backed up to the linked Google Account; however, neither Android app nor Linux apps data will be saved. Make sure to manually back up your Linux apps and Android app data before you start the reset process.
How to reset your Chromebook to factory settings when you sign 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 erase your device:
Open the Settings app.
Chrome OS settings
On the left, select Advanced.
Click the Reset settings option.
Chromebook—Reset settings
Press the reset button.
Click Restart in the pop-up dialog box.
Chromebook-Powerwash
Once the device restarts, the reset process should be complete. You will now be asked to sign in to your Google account and start the Chromebook setup process.
How to factory reset your Chromebook from the sign-in screen
If the previous owner didn't remove their data from the Chromebook, you may not be able to sign in and reset it through the settings. Fortunately, there is still a way to reset the device from the login screen:
Simultaneously press Shift, Ctrl, Alt, and R.
Click the Restart button in the dialog box that appears.
After restarting your Chromebook, select the Powerwash button in the new pop-up dialog box.
Confirm that you want to perform a Powerwash operation for your device by clicking the Continue button.
Lenovo Flex 5 Chromebook 12
Once this process is complete, your device will be reset, and you will be asked to sign in with a Google account.
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You're now ready to do Powerwash for Chromebook if the need arises. If you notice that your laptop is slowing down to the point of crawling but you don't want to resort to Powerwash, you may be able to fix the problem with the Chrome OS Diagnostics app.