Important: ChromeOS recovery permanently erases files stored on the Chromebook’s local drive, including downloaded files. Back up anything you can still access before you begin. Recovery removes and reinstalls ChromeOS; use it for a serious OS problem, not as a first step when the Chromebook is still usable.
Before you recover: check whether it is necessary
Recovery is appropriate if the Chromebook says “ChromeOS is missing or damaged,” serious problems remain after other troubleshooting, or Chromebook Help has recommended recovery. If you can still sign in, restart first. If restarting does not resolve the issue, Google recommends trying a factory reset before reinstalling ChromeOS. A factory reset also removes local data, so back up accessible files before either procedure. See Google’s recovery instructions for the current steps and options.
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If the Chromebook belongs to a workplace or school, contact its administrator before proceeding. Managed devices may require administrator assistance.
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Choose a recovery method and gather what you need
Some newer supported Chromebooks offer recovery over an internet connection. Use that option if it appears on the device and you have internet access. If it is not available, or the Chromebook cannot connect, use a USB recovery drive. Google notes that some older Chromebooks may no longer support recovery.
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- The affected Chromebook.
- A separate Chromebook, or a Windows or Mac computer with Chrome, to create the recovery drive.
- An erasable USB flash drive with at least 8 GB of capacity, as specified in Google’s consumer recovery guide. Creating recovery media erases the drive, so do not use one containing files you need.
Google’s consumer guide sets an 8 GB minimum; its separate Chrome Enterprise and Education quick-start says 4 GB or larger USB 2.0 drives. Those pages do not explain the difference. For a consumer recovery, follow the dedicated guide’s 8 GB recommendation. Capacity alone does not guarantee a particular drive will work.
Create the USB recovery drive
- On the working computer, install Chrome if it is not already installed.
- Install and open the Chromebook Recovery Utility, then select Get started.
- Choose the Chromebook model from the list, or enter its model number. Google says the model number appears at the bottom of the Chromebook’s error message.
- Insert the USB flash drive, select it in the utility, then choose Continue and Create now.
- When the utility says the recovery media is ready, remove the drive.
Put the Chromebook into recovery mode
First disconnect accessories and external storage from the affected Chromebook. The key sequence depends on device type, and some Chromebook models use a different combination:
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- Most Chromebooks: Hold Esc and Refresh, press Power, then release Power. Release the other keys when the recovery message appears.
- Some Chromebook models: Use Esc and Maximize instead of Esc and Refresh.
- Chromebook tablets: Press and hold Volume Up, Volume Down, and Power together for at least 10 seconds.
- Chromeboxes and Chromebits: Use the device’s recovery button. A paper clip or similar object may be needed to press it.
For model-specific details, consult Google’s device recovery guide.
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- With the Chromebook in recovery mode, insert the USB recovery drive.
- Choose Recover using external disk.
- Follow the on-screen instructions and wait for the process to finish.
If an internet-recovery option appears on a newer supported Chromebook, you can use it instead of USB recovery. If you need to switch methods after starting, Google says to restart the recovery key sequence using Esc + Refresh and Power.
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Fix common recovery errors
- “An unexpected error has occurred”: Erase the storage device and retry, or create the recovery media on a different USB drive. Google cautions that some flash drives do not work well with recovery.
- “Please remove all connected devices and start recovery”: Disconnect accessories such as a mouse or external hard drive, then enter recovery mode again.
- “The device you inserted doesn’t contain ChromeOS”: Check that you inserted the USB drive created with the Recovery Utility. If it is the correct drive, erase it and retry or use another drive.
- Security-module error: Google directs users to the Chromebook Help forum and, if necessary, the manufacturer for repair. If the Chromebook is managed, contact its administrator.
If recovery continues to fail, contact the Chromebook manufacturer. The utility and device may reject some USB drives even when they meet the stated capacity requirement.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Erase the recovery drive for reuse
After recovery, use the Chromebook Recovery Utility’s erase function to remove the recovery media and make the USB drive available for other files. Erasing the recovery media removes its contents; do not assume files previously on the drive will be preserved.
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