Chromebook Tip: PowerWashing a Chromebook Without Logging In

Powerwashing a Chromebook is a means to reset it back to factory default. There are a few reasons you would want to do this. If you are getting ready to get rid of a device it would be good to do before letting it go. If you have a software error that is making the machine function improperly, you could try powerwashing it to get it running again. You might even buy a device and don't know the user account information to sign in and be able to use it. Note: If the device is enrolled by an organization, even if you powerwash it you might not be able to log back in without the organization touching the device first.

To powerwash a machine without logging in, do the following at the login screen:

Press ALT + SHIFT + R and tap the Restart button.

You will then be prompted to powerwash the device. After it finishes, you will be able to log back into your account as normal.