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Chromebooks are affordable and easy-to-use devices that are a great choice for anyone. Since their release, Chromebooks have added many useful features, making the best Chromebooks a great alternative to Microsoft Windows laptops. Even though they are great for web browsing, Chromebooks are a bit limited by nature, and some power users may want a little more out of their devices.

The Chromebook operating system, Chrome OS, includes a Developer mode that lets users tailor their Chromebook experience to suit their needs, much like gaining root access on an Android device. Here's a tutorial on what Developer mode is, why you might want to use it, and how to access it.

What is Developer Mode?

Chrome OS Developer Mode is meant for advanced users and allows them to tweak their devices by installing apps that aren't in the Play Store, entering advanced settings, and replacing the operating system. It's called Developer Mode because only people who know what they're doing, such as developers, should enable and use it. It can be used to sideload Android apps using APKs and install Linux distributions and Linux apps. Some consequences could result from using Developer Mode without the proper knowledge, so tread carefully.

An Asus Chromebook Flip CX5 with a teal background with the keyboard highlighted

One drawback is that you might void your Chrome OS device's warranty. Most warranties cover normal usage, and Developer Mode technically doesn't fall under normal use. To make sure your warranty stays intact, double-check the language from your device's manufacturer before turning it on. Also, when you turn on your device with Developer Mode enabled, you'll see a warning screen letting you know it's in Developer Mode.

Another drawback is that the files on your device are inaccessible when in Developer Mode. To avoid issues, copy the files you need from your regular account and bring them into your account once developer mode is enabled. You can lose all the files on your normal account by activating Developer Mode. If you decide to use Developer Mode, back up your files so that you don't lose anything you need.

A cartoon of a house behind a stone wall with a door with a big keyhole and a person with a key walking towards it
Source: Google

Additionally, and perhaps most importantly, the normal security features are disabled, so you are fully vulnerable to malware and other cyberattacks. Only those who know how to keep safe on the internet should use Developer mode so that their important data isn't stolen.

How do you enable Developer Mode?

Now that we know what Developer Mode is and the potential risks involved with using it, let's take a look at how to enable the feature.

  1. Reboot your Chromebook.
  2. While your Chromebook is restarting, simultaneously hold the Power+Esc+Refresh keys.
  3. Press and hold the Ctrl+D keys at the same time when the "ChromeOS is missing or damaged. Please insert USB stick" message pops up.
  4. A message may appear asking about OS verification. If so, press Enter.
  5. Your device restarts and sets up Developer Mode.
  6. Press Ctrl+D when a screen displays OS verification is off.

Now you're in Developer Mode and have access to the additional functionality.

How do you disable Developer Mode?

An Asus Chromebook CX9 in a picnic table in the woods

Sometimes, you may want to switch back to regular Google Chrome OS device functionality after using Developer Mode. Before you do so, make sure to back up all your files.

  1. Shut down your Chromebook.
  2. Press the power button to power on your Chromebook.
  3. Press the space bar when the OS verification is off message pops up.
  4. The Chromebook factory resets and completes the regular setup process.

After that, your Chromebook should now be back to its usual functionality.

Try out new Chromebook features early

Chromebooks are perfect for most users, but if you want a little more out of your device, Developer Mode may be for you. Now that you understand what it is, the risks involved, and how to set it up, you're ready to use Developer Mode.

If you want to try new features from Google before they're released to the stable channel, change your ChromeOS channel to Beta or Dev. If you ever run into any issues, it may be useful to powerwash your device to get it back up and running.