How to Powerwash a Chromebook?

"Powerwash" is Chrome OS's term for a factory reset — it erases all local accounts, files, and settings and restores the Chromebook to its original state. It's used to fix problems or wipe the device before selling or handing it on.

⚠️ Before you Powerwash:

• Back up your files. Anything saved locally (in the Downloads folder) will be permanently deleted. Move important files to Google Drive or an external/USB drive. Files already in Google Drive are safe.
• Note that your Google Account data itself (synced bookmarks, Drive files) stays in your account and can be restored after.

Method 1 — Keyboard shortcut (fastest):

1. Sign out of your Chromebook.
2. On the sign-in screen, press and hold Ctrl + Alt + Shift + R.
3. Click Restart.
4. In the box that appears, select Powerwash → Continue.

Method 2 — Through Settings:

1. Click the time/status area (bottom right) and open Settings.
2. Go to Advanced → Reset settings (on some it's System → Reset settings).
3. Next to Powerwash, click Reset, then Restart.
4. Select Powerwash → Continue in the dialog.

After the reset:

• Follow the on-screen setup and sign in with your Google Account to restore synced settings, or sign in with a different account.
• If you're giving the Chromebook away, don't sign back in — leave it at the setup screen for the new owner.

Tip: If the Chromebook is managed by a school or work organization, a Powerwash may not remove the enrollment, and you may need the administrator to release it.