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A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11If your Chromebook will not show the recovery screen, first unplug attached devices and retry the correct key sequence for its form factor. On most Chromebooks, hold Esc + Refresh, press Power, release Power, then release Esc and Refresh when the recovery message appears. Some models use Esc + Maximize instead. A Chromebook tablet uses Volume Up + Volume Down + Power for at least 10 seconds.
Before proceeding, note that ChromeOS recovery permanently erases local files, including items in Downloads. Back up anything you can access before starting.
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Try the recovery sequence that matches your device
Google recommends removing attached devices, such as a mouse or external drive, before trying to enter recovery. Then use the sequence for your Chromebook’s form factor:
- Most Chromebooks: Hold Esc and Refresh, press Power, and release Power. Release Esc and Refresh when the recovery message appears.
- Some Chromebook models: Use Esc and Maximize instead of Esc and Refresh. Check the manufacturer’s instructions if the usual combination does not work.
- Chromebook tablets: Hold Volume Up, Volume Down, and Power for at least 10 seconds, then release.
Do not assume every Chromebook uses the same key combination. If you cannot identify the right keys or the device does not respond, look up the instructions for its exact model.
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If there is no screen or response, check power first
A recovery key sequence cannot help if the Chromebook is not receiving power. Connect it to power and check for a charging indicator. If it appears to be charging but still will not turn on, Google advises charging it for at least 30 minutes before trying again. If it still shows no response, follow Google’s hardware and system troubleshooting guidance rather than repeatedly pressing recovery keys.
Check for model-specific recovery controls
Chromeboxes and Chromebits use a physical recovery-button procedure involving a paper clip or similar object; a Chromebit must be unplugged first. Google notes that not all Chromebook models have a recovery button. If you cannot find one or are unsure of the procedure, consult the manufacturer’s instructions rather than inserting an object into an unverified opening.
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Choose a recovery method once the recovery screen appears
Google’s recovery guide offers internet recovery for supported newer Chromebooks and USB recovery media as an alternative. The option available depends on the device model and whether it can connect to the internet. Older Chromebooks may not support internet recovery and may not be recoverable through current procedures.
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| USB recovery media | Internet recovery is unavailable, unsupported, or there is no internet connection. | Another working Chromebook, or a Windows or Mac computer with Chrome; the Chromebook Recovery Utility; and an erasable USB flash drive with at least 8 GB capacity. |
Create and retry USB recovery media
- On a working Chromebook or a Windows or Mac computer with Chrome, open the Chromebook Recovery Utility.
- Select the device model, or enter the model number shown at the bottom of the Chromebook’s error screen.
- Use a USB flash drive with at least 8 GB capacity. Creating the recovery media erases the drive, so copy off anything you want to keep first.
- Insert the USB device you used to create the media into the Chromebook and follow the recovery screen’s instructions.
If Google reports an “unexpected error” or says the device does not contain ChromeOS, confirm that you inserted the USB drive used to create the recovery media. If the message persists, erase the drive and create the media again, or try another USB drive; Google notes that some flash drives do not work well for recovery.
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Understand what recovery erases
ChromeOS recovery removes and reinstalls the operating system and permanently erases local storage, including downloaded files. Google’s recovery instructions explicitly warn that recovery permanently erases everything on the Chromebook’s hard drive, even downloaded files. Back up local files first if you can still access them; do not assume recovery will preserve them.
A factory reset, also called Powerwash, is different from OS recovery. Google presents Powerwash as a troubleshooting option for a Chromebook you can sign in to, and it also erases local user data. It is not a way to reach the recovery screen when the Chromebook will not boot into it. See Google’s factory reset guidance for the distinction.
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When to contact an administrator or manufacturer
- Work or school device: Contact your administrator if recovery fails or the device is managed. Do not try to bypass management controls.
- Key sequence or recovery button remains unclear: Ask the manufacturer for instructions specific to the model.
- Power checks and recovery steps fail: Google directs users to contact the Chromebook manufacturer for further help.
- Older device: Current recovery procedures or updates may not be supported, so ask the manufacturer what options remain for that model.
A failed key attempt alone does not identify the cause. The next checks are the attached devices, the key sequence and form factor, power, model-specific recovery controls, and whether the device supports current recovery procedures.
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