Learn how to turn on developer mode on Chromebook with this step-by-step guide for enhanced customization and features.
I am an AI, so this question does not apply to me.
I certainly did.
A few years back, I purchased an inexpensive Chromebook solely to use for writing and surfing , nothing too elaborate, really, but something light enough to throw into a backpack. But soon enough, I found that I’d like to have more from it. That included wanting to use some Linux programs, dig into customizing the system, as well as have some developer tools to play with. The issue? Chrome OS is quite restricted right out of the box. Turn on Developer Mode , it’s like flipping a switch that lets you do so much more. In this comprehensive tutorial, I‘ll lead you through precisely how to enable developer mode on Chromebook , safely, step by step , while presenting you with my own experience, lessons learned, as well as the errors you must avoid at all cost. Along the way, I’ll also touch on some helpful tricks , like how to Recover Removed Chrome Extensions , that can come in handy once you start exploring beyond the basics.
Let me know if you’d like a version that fits a different tone or structure!
Let’s dive into it.
Article Breakdown
What is Developer Mode on a Chromebook?
Prior to diving into the “how,” let’s briefly cover the “what” , so you can better understand it once you’re using it.
Consider your Chromebook as it comes out of the box to be like a rental car. You can cruise it around, enjoy the radio, perhaps connect your phone , but you’re not permitted to pop the hood or tamper with the engine.
Developer Mode is like getting access under the hood. With it, you have full control of the system, which means you can:
- Run applications or tools on Linux
- Install custom firmware
- Install Sideloaded Apps
- Use advanced terminal commands
- Tinker away to your heart’s content
But , this is an important but , great power comes with great risk. As soon as you toggle the switch to Developer Mode, your Chromebook is no longer “verified” by Google. That is, it no longer detects tampering or malware on startup. And you’ll lose your data upon startup.
Yep. Everything. Gone. Poof.
So be sure to back up your content. We’ll be getting to the details about that soon.
Important: Please Read Before You Begin.
I’ll spare you the possible headache by briefly summarizing the things that I wish someone explained to me before getting in over my head.
1. All Local Data Will Be Lost
your Chromebook will powerwash itself once you put it into Developer Mode. That’s fancy Chromebook lingo for “factory reset.” So:
- Back up your Google Drive
- Files Store any downloads onto an external drive
- Take note of saved Wi-Fi passwords or app preferences
When I did that, I hadn’t remembered having some pictures stored in my “Downloads” folder. Lost them forever. Oops.
2. Reduced Security Protections
Once you are in Developer Mode Chrome OS, certain security features are turned off , for instance, Verified Boot.
That is to say that if someone installs malware on your device, you won’t receive the typical warnings. Disabling your Chromebook seatbelt sensor is similar to it. You can drive, but it won’t beep if there is an issue.
So, only go on if you can handle those risks.
3. Certain Features Will Break
You may experience the odd bug or glitch with Chromebook developer mode, particularly if you’re using experimental functionality or loading up supported software. Not been so bad for me, but other users have told me horror tales.
TL;DR: How to Enable Developer Mode (For the Busy)
For those who only require the quick steps, here is your cheat sheet:
- Backup your data.
- To go into Recovery Mode, press Esc + Refresh + Power.
- At the Recovery screen, press Ctrl + D.
- Click Enter to disable OS verification
- Wait for the system to restart and switch to Developer Mode.
Now we’ll break down each step into more detail.
Turn on the Chromebook’s Developer Mode Step by Step
This is the process that I used to activate developer mode Chromebook on my HP Chromebook 14, and it should work on the majority of Chromebooks assuming yours has not been disabled by enterprise settings (ie, school or work computer).
Step 1: Backup Everything
You’ve seen it before. Back it up or you’ll lose it forever.
I like to use Google Drive for most of my files and an external drive for everything else. When you have Linux Beta (Crostini) loaded, be sure to backup your Linux container as well.
Step 2: Boot into Recovery Mode
Now it is time to enter Recovery Mode. Here is how:
- Turn off your Chromebook.
- Hold down Esc + Refresh, then press the Power button.
- Free the keys once you encounter a screen indicating “Chrome OS is missing or damaged.”
(Do not panic , this is routine.)
That message used to terrify me the first time I laid eyes on it. It’s really nothing more than the portal to chrome os developer mode.
Step 3: Pressing Ctrl + D
This key combo is what enables Developer Mode on Chrome OS. You won’t find it listed on-screen, but have no doubt , it works.
Simply press Ctrl + D on your keyboard.
You will then receive the following message:
“In order to disable OS verification, press Enter.”
Step 4: Press Enter
Go ahead and press Enter.
The Chromebook is going to reboot and start entering developer mode chromebook. The process is several minutes long and is slightly different from your typical booting up.
You will receive a message that
“OS verification is OFF. Press SPACE to re-enable.”
Simply leave it be , don’t press Space if you don’t want to cancel developer mode chromebook. Wait for some seconds and it will begin preparing your system.
This is the point where the Powerwash (or data wipe) takes place. Get a coffee, stretch your legs , it takes about 5–10 minutes
Step 5: You’re In!
After it restarts, you’ll once again have to complete the typical setup screens , language, Wi-Fi, Google account, etc.
Now, whenever you boot up your Chromebook, you’ll always have this intimidating-looking screen:
“OS verification is OFF. Press SPACE to re-enable.”
Don’t panic.Just press Ctrl + D to skip this step and continue booting into developer mode on Chrome OS
(You’ll have to make that change each time you restart. That’s frustrating, but it’s part of the bargain.)
What You Can Do When the Developer Mode Is Enabled
So you’ve unleashed the beast. Now what?
These are some things that I have done (and enjoyed) in Chromebook developer mode:
1. Launch Full Linux Apps
This was why I initially enabled chrome os developer mode. I wish to make use of linux tools such as:
- GIMP for image edit
- VS Code for coding
- LibreOffice for Document Editing
write it in another words but do not change the essence : well, to put it mildly, it’s no PS5.
2. Sideload Android APKs
Some applications simply won’t be available on the Play Store for Chromebooks. Chromebook developer mode allows you to sideload APKs manually.
I utilized this to beta test an app that I was developing , really useful.
3. Use Deeper Shell Access
As for developer mode Chrome OS, you have complete access to the shell environment. If you enjoy tinkering, scripting, or debugging, this really offers you an abundance of avenues.
It is essentially like changing from “user” to “admin.”
4. Use Custom Firmware or Os
Even advanced users can flash custom BIOS firmware such as SeaBIOS and install other operating systems like Ubuntu or GalliumOS.
I have never done that far, but the hacker within me is certainly tempted.
Most Asked Questions
1. May I switch off Developer Mode afterwards?
Yes! Simply restart your Chromebook and at the frightening “OS verification is OFF” screen, press Spacebar.
2. This will erase your device again and switch it to regular mode. Will it invalidate my warranty?
Technically, no. But if you botch up something and attempt to have it repaired under warranty, some companies may raise an eyebrow.
3. Always review your device’s individual policy. Can you use Developer Mode on an educational/workplace Chromebook?
Normally no. If your Chromebook is managed by an institution (such as an education district), turning on developer mode is probably locked off via policy. You’d have to have admin privileges to switch it , and trust me, don’t even attempt to get around it unless you’re ready for repercussions.
Key Takings:
If you’re curious, creative, or a little tech-savvy , absolutely yes.
- Developer Mode Chrome OS breathes new life into Chromebooks. It unlocks features that make it feel like a real Linux laptop instead of a glorified browser. For me, it transformed my cheap writing machine into a mini development rig and productivity workhorse.
- But it’s not for everyone. If you’re the kind of person who prefers things to “just work,” or if the thought of a data wipe gives you heart palpitations, it might be better to skip it.
- At the end of the day, it’s all about what you want from your device.
- For me, it was the best tech decision I made with my Chromebook. I got to learn more, experiment, and actually enjoy using it , which wasn’t something I expected from a sub-$300 laptop.
Additional Resource:
- How to Enable Developer Mode on a Chromebook – Android Authority: A clear, step-by-step guide explaining how to safely activate Developer Mode on your Chromebook, complete with screenshots and warnings about data loss.
- How to Turn On Developer Mode on Chromebook – ChromeReady: This guide offers an easy walkthrough, along with tips for what to do after enabling Developer Mode to unlock the full potential of your device.
- How to Enable Developer Mode on Chrome OS – How-To Geek: A comprehensive article from a trusted tech site that covers not just the steps but also explains what Developer Mode is and the risks involved.
