Factory resetting a Chromebook is called a Powerwash in Chrome OS terms. It wipes all local data and accounts from the device while leaving your cloud-stored files completely untouched. Here are all the methods to do it, including what to do when you cannot access the normal settings menu.

What a Factory Reset Does on a Chromebook

A factory reset removes every Google account signed into the device, deletes all local files in the Downloads folder, uninstalls Android apps, and restores Chrome OS settings to their defaults. Files in Google Drive, emails, contacts, and photos stored in Google’s cloud are not affected at all – they sync back automatically when you sign in again.

Method 1: Factory Reset from Settings (Standard Method)

1. Sign in and click the clock in the bottom right corner.
2. Click the Settings gear icon.
3. Type Powerwash in the Settings search bar.
4. Click Powerwash and then click Reset.
5. Click Restart to confirm.
6. After the Chromebook reboots, click Powerwash, then Continue.
7. The reset completes in a few minutes and the device shows the initial setup screen.

Method 2: Factory Reset from the Login Screen

Use this if you are locked out or cannot access Settings.

1. On the Chromebook login screen, press Ctrl + Alt + Shift + R.
2. A Powerwash dialog appears. Click Restart.
3. After the Chromebook restarts, select Powerwash and click Continue.

Method 3: Hard Reset Using Recovery Mode

Use this only if the Chromebook will not boot properly and you cannot reach the login screen.

1. Turn off the Chromebook completely.
2. Hold Esc + Refresh (F3) and press the Power button.
3. Release Power when the recovery screen appears.
4. Press Ctrl + D to enter Developer mode or use a recovery USB created with the Chromebook Recovery Utility.

The Chromebook Recovery Utility is a Chrome browser extension available from the Chrome Web Store that creates a bootable USB drive to reinstall Chrome OS from scratch.

Before You Reset: What to Save

• Move any files from your Downloads folder to Google Drive.
• Note any Android apps you want to reinstall after the reset.
• If you use Linux apps, export or back up any important Linux data – the Linux environment is completely removed.

After the Factory Reset

Connect to Wi-Fi on the setup screen, sign in with your Google account, and Chrome OS will restore your wallpaper, extensions, and settings automatically. Android apps will begin reinstalling from the Play Store. This process usually completes within 15-20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a factory reset fix a slow Chromebook?

Often yes. Over time, Chromebooks can accumulate cached data, conflicting extensions, and Android apps that degrade performance. A factory reset eliminates all of this and usually restores the device to near-original speed.

How do I factory reset a school Chromebook?

Managed school Chromebooks are locked by the school’s IT policy. If you Powerwash one, it re-enrolls to school management automatically after the reset. Only the school’s IT administrator can fully remove management enrollment.

Can I factory reset without losing my files?

Files stored in Google Drive are safe – they are not on the device and are not affected. Only files in the local Downloads folder that have not been synced to Drive will be lost. Move those to Drive before resetting.