How to Turn on Developer Mode on Chromebook – 5 Easy Steps

Learn how to turn on Developer Mode on Chromebook with step-by-step instructions. Also, we’ll cover its features, benefits, risks, and how to safely enable or disable it.

How to Turn on Developer Mode on Chromebook

If you wish to access advanced features, you need to enable developer mode on Chromebook. Many people turn to developer mode for more control over their device, to install custom applications, and to explore the system in greater detail. The process is also not very complex, but do note that it requires care and that you are aware of the risks.

Read More: How to Eject USB from Chromebook

What is Developer Mode on Chromebook?

Before you turn on developer mode on Chromebook, it is important to know what it does. Developer mode is a special feature that puts out of play certain Chrome OS policies. Once you turn on developer mode in your Chromebook, you can get to system files, issue high-level commands, and also use apps that do not appear on the official store.

When you put your Chromebook into developer mode, some security measures are disabled, which in turn makes your device more vulnerable. It is important to proceed with care.

Read More: How to Change Cursor on Chromebook

Things to do Before You Turn on Developer Mode on Chromebook

Here are some important steps you should take before you turn on developer mode on Chromebook:

• Backup all your important data, which the process will do by erasing local files.
• Make sure your device is connected to a power source.
• Turning on developer mode for your Chromebook may void some warranties.

Proper preparation will see to it that you do not lose any of your data when you turn on developer mode on Chromebook.

Read More: How to Fix Chromebook Keyboard Not Working

Steps to Turn on Developer Mode on Chromebook

Here are the steps to turn on developer mode on Chromebook:

Step 1: Power off Your Chromebook

First, turn off your device. This is a requirement before you access developer mode on Chromebook.

Step 2: Enter Recovery Mode

Press and hold the Esc key and the Refresh key at the same time, then press the Power button. This will take you to recovery mode, which in turn will enable you to access developer mode on Chromebook.

Step 3: Start Developer Mode

Upon appearance of the recovery screen, press Ctrl+ D. This command starts the process to enable developer mode on Chromebook.

Step 4: Confirm Your Choice

Hit Enter when prompted. This will confirm that you wish to turn on developer mode for your Chromebook.

Step 5: Wait for the Process to Complete

Your device will reboot and go into developer mode. This may take a few minutes. While this is going on, your data will be wiped as we turn on developer mode in Chromebook.

Read More: How to Turn Off Touchscreen on Chromebook

What Happens After You Turn on Developer Mode on Chromebook?

After you turn on developer mode on Chromebook, it will reboot and present a warning screen at boot. To proceed, you will have to press Ctrl + D. This is normal when you enable developer mode on Chromebook.

Here is what you now have access to in terms of advanced features:

• Installing Linux tools
• Running developer commands
• Customizing system settings

Many users enable developer mode on Chromebooks for the purpose of trying out new things and to extend their devices’ features.

Risks of Turning on Developer Mode on Chromebook

Although in some cases it is fine, when you enable developer mode on Chromebook:

• Reduced system security
• Possible data loss
• Risk of system instability

Because of these issues, we only recommend that you enable developer mode on Chromebook when you really need the advanced features.

How to Turn off Developer Mode on Chromebook

If you determine that you no longer require developer mode, that’s easy to do. Reboot your Chromebook and follow the screen instructions to go back to normal mode. This will put in place all security features again and will leave developer mode behind.

Conclusion

Learning to turn on developer mode on Chromebook opens up a world of options. For those who wish to fully customize their device or to play with in-depth tools, being able to turn on developer mode is a very valuable skill. Also, back up your data and research the issues associated with it before you enable developer mode on Chromebook.