Developer Mode is a special operating mode that removes many of Chrome OS’s built-in security restrictions. It is primarily intended for developers, power users, and testers who need advanced access to the system.
Key Features of Developer Mode:
- Linux Support (Crostini): Run Linux apps and command-line tools
- Custom OS Installation: Install Ubuntu or other Linux distributions
- System File Access: Full access to Chrome OS system files
- Advanced Development Tools: Use ADB and debugging utilities
- Script Execution: Run custom scripts and automation tools
How to Turn On Developer Mode on Chrome OS
Before You Start (Important Warnings)
- Data Loss: Enabling Developer Mode will erase all local data on your Chromebook. Back up important files to Google Drive or an external storage device.
- Security Risks: Developer Mode reduces security protections, making your device vulnerable to malware and unauthorized access.
- Boot Warnings: You’ll see a warning screen every time you start your Chromebook in Developer Mode.
If you're prepared to accept these risks, follow the steps below.
Step 1: Back Up Your Data
Enabling Developer Mode wipes your Chromebook, including all user data and files stored locally.
How to Back Up Data
- Open Google Drive and upload your important files.
- Alternatively, transfer files to a USB drive or external hard drive.
- Verify that all critical files are safely stored before proceeding.
Step 2: Turn Off Your Chromebook then Boot Into Recovery Mode
- Click the Power icon in the bottom-right corner of the screen.
- Select Power Off to shut down your Chromebook.
- Press and hold the ESC key and the Refresh key (the circular arrow icon on the top row of the keyboard).
- While holding these keys, press the Power button to turn on your Chromebook.
- Keep holding the ESC and Refresh keys until the "Chrome OS is missing or damaged" message appears. This means you’re in Recovery Mode.
Step 3: Enable Developer Mode
- Press Ctrl + D
- On the warning screen, press Enter to confirm
- Chrome OS will begin enabling Developer Mode (this may take several minutes)
Step 4: Wait for the Process to Complete
- Once the setup is complete, you’ll see a "Preparing system for Developer Mode" message.
- Your Chromebook will reboot and display a Powerwash screen. This step is mandatory to activate Developer Mode.
Step 5: Perform the Powerwash
- Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your Chromebook (Powerwash).
- After the Powerwash, your Chromebook will restart with Developer Mode enabled.
Step 6: Bypass the OS Verification Screen
- Every time you boot your Chromebook in Developer Mode, you’ll see an OS verification screen warning. Press Ctrl + D to bypass this warning and continue to boot into Developer Mode.
Step 7: Set Up Your Chromebook
- Select your language and input method.
- Sign in with your Google account.
- Configure your preferences, and you’re ready to start exploring Developer Mode.
How to turn off Developer Mode in ChromeOS
Now, you have learned how to turn on ChromeOS Developer Mode, but what if you don't like it? Just like you learn the turning on in this section, you will also learn how to turn off Developer Mode in ChromeOS of Chromebook
Step 1: Turn On Chromebook
- Turn on your Chromebook if it is Off or If it is On then restart it.
- After this press Up Arrow to select Return to secure mode on the screen.
Step 2: Open Developer Mode
- Press Enter to initiate a factory data reset, which will erase all data from your laptop. After the reset, you will need to go through the Chromebook setup process once again to configure your device.
Important Notes on Developer Mode
- Security Risks: System protections are reduced
- Data Wipe: All local data is erased when enabling or disabling
- Verified Boot Re-enabled: Disabling Developer Mode restores default security
- Linux & OS Flexibility: Ideal for Linux apps and OS experimentation
- Development Use: Useful for testing, scripting, and debugging