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The factory-reset option on a Samsung Chromebook is called Powerwash. It removes local user data and restores factory settings; it is not the same as a hardware reset or reinstalling ChromeOS. Back up files stored on the Chromebook before you start.
What Powerwash deletes—and what it does not
Google says a factory reset erases user data on the Chromebook’s internal storage, including files in Downloads, along with settings and apps. As Google Chromebook Help puts it, “A factory reset erases all user data on your Chromebook’s hard drive, including all the files in the Downloads folder.”
Before resetting, sync account information and copy local files you want to keep to Google Drive or external storage. Powerwash does not erase files stored in Google Drive or on external storage, but it does not back up local files for you. See Google’s Powerwash instructions.
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How to Powerwash a Samsung Chromebook
These are Google’s general Chromebook instructions. The exact Samsung model is not specified here, and Google’s cited consumer instructions do not list model-by-model Powerwash variations.
- Back up local files and sync information you need to keep.
- Sign out of the Chromebook.
- Press and hold Ctrl + Alt + Shift + R.
- Select Restart.
- In the reset window, select Powerwash, then Continue.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the reset.
- When setup is complete, sign in with the account you want to use as the Chromebook’s owner. The first account used after the reset becomes the owner account.
Google recommends trying simpler troubleshooting first when appropriate. For the complete current procedure, consult Google Chromebook Help.
Powerwash, hardware reset, or ChromeOS recovery?
Choose the action that matches the problem. A hardware reset is a troubleshooting step, while recovery removes and reinstalls ChromeOS. Neither is another name for Powerwash.
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| Option | Purpose | Effect | When it fits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powerwash (factory reset) | Restore factory settings | Removes local user data | You can sign in and want to clear local data or start fresh |
| Hardware reset | Restart Chromebook hardware functions | Not the same as erasing user data with Powerwash | A troubleshooting step when hardware functions are not responding |
| ChromeOS recovery | Reinstall the operating system | Removes and reinstalls ChromeOS | Serious operating-system errors remain after restarting and factory reset |
When a hardware reset may help
Google’s general hardware-reset instruction is to turn the Chromebook off, hold Refresh, and tap Power. This procedure restarts hardware functions; it does not perform the factory-data wipe described above. Follow Google’s hardware-reset instructions for the applicable steps.
Google lists a separate hardware-reset procedure for certain Samsung Series 5 and Series 5 550 models. Do not apply that model-specific procedure to another Samsung Chromebook based only on the brand name. Check the exact model and its instructions first.
When to use ChromeOS recovery
Recovery is a separate escalation for serious operating-system problems that remain after restarting and factory resetting. It removes and reinstalls ChromeOS, so it is not just another way to Powerwash. Google’s recovery guide explains the available recovery methods: Recover your Chromebook.
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If you create USB recovery media, use a drive with at least 8 GB of storage. Creating the recovery media erases the drive’s contents. Save anything on it elsewhere first. The 8 GB minimum and erasure warning are specified in Google’s recovery instructions.
Work- or school-managed Chromebooks
If your Chromebook is managed by a workplace or school, do not rely on the ordinary consumer reset flow. Google directs users of managed devices to contact their administrator for wiping and re-enrollment. The administrator can advise on the organization’s process; see Google’s instructions for wiping ChromeOS device data.
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