Embedded Files
Powerwashing a Chromebook means resetting it to factory settings, removing all user accounts, settings, and local files.
This is often done to fix performance issues, sign-in errors, or glitches that don’t resolve with a simple restart.
It’s especially useful when:
It’s especially useful when:
The Chromebook is being reassigned to a new student or staff member.
The device won’t update or connect properly to the network.
You’re experiencing slow performance or recurring software errors.
After a powerwash, the Chromebook will start fresh — and once you sign back in with your district Google account, your settings, bookmarks, and files saved to Google Drive will automatically sync back.
💬 Pro Tip: Always make sure any unsaved local files (like downloads or screenshots) are backed up before performing a powerwash — those will be erased.
🔄 How to Powerwash a Chromebook (Factory Reset)
🔄 How to Powerwash a Chromebook (Factory Reset)
🔄 Newer Models
🔄 Newer Models
Sign out of the Chromebook (do not just close the lid).
On the sign-in screen, press Ctrl + Alt + Shift + R.
A pop-up will appear — click Restart.
When the Chromebook restarts, select Powerwash.
Click Continue to confirm.
Once the reset is complete, the Chromebook will restart and show the Welcome screen.
Now we need to re-enroll this device back into the VUSD Google Database. To do that, Click Here.
🔄 How to Powerwash a Chromebook (Factory Reset)
🔄 How to Powerwash a Chromebook (Factory Reset)
🔄 Older Models
🔄 Older Models
Press the ESC + REFRESH + POWER at the same time
Hold down ESC + Refresh (⟳) + Power
Release all keys when you see the Chrome OS is missing or damaged / Please insert a recovery USB stick or SD card screen (As seen below)
Press CTRL + D (nothing will appear on screen when you press it—this is normal).
Press Enter when prompted to turn off OS verification.
The Chromebook will restart and display a new screen. Press CTRL + D again to continue.
The Chromebook will begin wiping itself and return to a fresh, out-of-the-box state.
Now we need to re-enroll this device back into the VUSD Google Database. To do that, Click Here.
Page updated
Report abuse