What is Verified Boot?
When you power on your Chromebook, it performs a series of self-checks. This process is called Verified Boot. It’s a crucial security feature that ensures your system hasn't been tampered with and is running trusted software.
- Verified Boot checks the integrity of your ChromeOS.
- It prevents unauthorised or malicious software from running during startup.
- It's a foundational security layer for Chromebooks.
Good to know
Chromebooks are renowned for their strong security, and Verified Boot is a major reason why. It acts like a digital bouncer, only letting legitimate software into the club.
Signs you're in Developer Mode
If your Chromebook is in Developer Mode, you'll likely see a warning screen every time you turn it on. This screen allows you to press Ctrl + D to boot, or wait for a timeout.
- A white screen with the message 'OS verification is OFF' or 'Developer Mode' appears at startup.
- You might have enabled Developer Mode previously to install Linux or other non-ChromeOS software.
- Performance issues or unexpected behaviour could be a sign if you've installed unverified software.
Important
While Developer Mode offers flexibility, it significantly reduces your Chromebook's security by disabling Verified Boot. This makes your device more vulnerable to malware and security risks.
How to turn off Developer Mode and Powerwash
Reverting from Developer Mode and re-enabling Verified Boot requires a Powerwash. This process will reset your Chromebook to its factory settings, deleting all local data.
- Backup your data: Before proceeding, ensure all important files are backed up to Google Drive or an external storage device. A Powerwash deletes everything on your local storage.
- Power off your Chromebook: Completely shut down your device.
- Enter Recovery Mode: Hold down Esc + Refresh (circular arrow key) and then press the Power button. Release the Power button when the screen turns on, but keep holding Esc + Refresh until you see a recovery screen.
- Initiate the Powerwash: On the recovery screen, you will likely see a message indicating that OS verification is off. Press Space to re-enable OS verification. This action triggers a Powerwash.
- Confirm and complete: Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm the Powerwash. Your Chromebook will restart and go through the initial setup process as if it were brand new.
Tip
If your Chromebook has a physical 'Developer Mode' switch (common on older models), you may need to physically toggle it off before or during recovery mode entry. Consult your Chromebook's manual if unsure.
After the Powerwash
Once the Powerwash is complete and you've gone through the initial setup, your Chromebook will be back in a secure state with Verified Boot enabled. It’s important to only turn off Developer Mode if you truly understand the risks and intend to use custom firmware.
- Your Chromebook will boot normally without the Developer Mode warning screen.
- All local data and installed apps will be gone, requiring you to set up your device and reinstall apps.
- Verified Boot will protect your system from unauthorised software modifications.
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JD
Written by
Jordan DicksonFounder, CyberSecurityGuides
Founder of CyberSecurityGuides, writing practical, jargon-free guides that help everyday people recover from and protect against online attacks.
Reviewed by CSG Security Engineers