---
title: How can I perform a factory reset on a Chromebook?
description: How can I perform a factory reset on a Chromebook?
---

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# How can I perform a factory reset on a Chromebook?

This is a great troubleshooting step, because it resolves many types of bizarre, unexplainable errors and it only takes about 2 minutes. It is sometimes called a "powerwash" or a "device recovery". It will wipe the hard drive of the device, but this typically doesn't impact any users, because all user apps and data are stored in the cloud.

![](https://support.desalesmedia.org/chromebook/14b.jpg)

![](https://support.desalesmedia.org/chromebook/14c.jpg)

1. Wait about 10 seconds and it will boot to the normal login screen.

1. Simultaneously press **Esc** + **refresh** + **power**
2. Use the Down Cursor Arrow key to highlight **Advanced Options** and press **Enter**.
3. Press **Enter** to select **Enable developer mode**. Press **Enter** again to confirm.
4. On the screen that says **Confirm returning to secure mode**, highlight **Confirm** and press **Enter**.

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