How to Factory Reset Your Chromebook to Brand New

How to Factory Reset Your Chromebook to Brand New - How to Factory Reset Your Chromebook to Brand New 3
  • Back up all data to Google Drive before resetting
  • Factory reset removes all local files and user accounts
  • School/business Chromebooks require admin permission to reset

Is your Chromebook acting sluggish lately? Maybe you’re planning to sell it, or just want that fresh-out-of-the-box feeling again. I’ve been there – dealing with a slow Chromebook can be super frustrating.

Let me show you how to give your Chromebook a fresh start with a factory reset (also known as Powerwash). I’ve reset countless Chromebooks, and I’ll walk you through the exact steps.

What Happens During a Factory Reset

When you reset your Chromebook, it erases everything stored locally on your device. This includes:

  • Downloaded files
  • Custom wallpapers
  • Browser settings
  • Installed Android apps
  • User accounts and preferences

But don’t worry – anything stored in your Google Drive stays safe and sound.

Before You Hit That Reset Button

Take these crucial steps first:

  • Sign in to your Google Account
  • Back up important files to Google Drive
  • Save bookmarks and passwords
  • Remove any USB drives or SD cards
  • Connect to a power source

The Quick Way to Reset Your Chromebook

Here’s the fastest method I use:

  1. Sign out of your Chromebook
  2. Press Ctrl + Alt + Shift + R
  3. Click Restart
  4. Select Powerwash
  5. Click Continue

The Settings Menu Method

If you prefer clicking through menus:

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  1. Click the time in the bottom-right corner
  2. Select the Settings gear icon
  3. Scroll down to Advanced
  4. Find Reset settings
  5. Click Reset next to Powerwash
  6. Select Restart

What to Do After the Reset

Your Chromebook will restart looking brand new. Here’s what to do next:

  1. Connect to Wi-Fi
  2. Sign in with your Google Account
  3. Restore your bookmarks and settings
  4. Reinstall your favorite apps

Special Cases for School and Business Chromebooks

These devices are a bit trickier. They’re managed by something called Google Admin Console.

You’ll need permission from your IT administrator to fully reset these devices.

FAQ

How Long Does a Factory Reset Take

The process usually takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on your Chromebook’s speed.

Will I Lose My Chrome Extensions

Yes, but they’ll automatically reinstall when you sign back into your Google account.

Can I Stop a Reset Once It Starts

Nope – once you confirm the Powerwash, there’s no going back. Make sure you really want to reset before starting.

What If the Reset Doesn’t Fix My Problem

If your Chromebook still acts up after a reset, you might need to:

  • Switch to a stable Chrome OS channel
  • Check for hardware issues
  • Contact manufacturer support