In this article, we’ll explain how to activate developer mode on a Chromebook so you can use the command prompt. Google owns and manages the operating system, ChromeOS, which is pre-installed on Chromebooks.
You can make adjustments to the system and unlock functionality that Google typically locks by using the command line in developer mode. Typically, you have access to the majority of features, but occasionally you require additional ones. To access extra functionality, you can enable ChromeOS’s developer mode.
This post will demonstrate how to activate developer mode on your Chromebook as well as how to turn it off if required.
The Developer Mode on Chromebook
The Chromebook’s operating system can be tweaked in Developer Mode by experienced users and programmers who want access to the system files at its foundation.
You can install applications and features that haven’t been approved by Google if you have access to the ChromeOS command line interface through developer mode. With ChromeOS developer mode, the options to make changes are unlimited.
How to Enable Developer Mode in Chrome OS
On your Chromebook, turning on developer mode will erase all of your data. So, before enabling developer mode, make a backup of all crucial files.
Otherwise, follow these instructions to turn on developer mode on a Chromebook running Chrome OS:
- Start by turning off your Chromebook.
- On the keyboard, hold down the Esc and Refresh keys (often the fourth key in the top row with an arrow circling it).
- Press the Power button to turn the Chromebook on while maintaining these holding positions.
- When you see the recovery screen, release the keys.
- Use the arrow keys to get to the advanced choices from here, then hit Enter.
- Press Enter after choosing Enable Developer Mode on the next screen.
- Press Confirm on the final screen to finish.
- The Developer Mode screen will be displayed after your Chromebook restarts. By pressing Enter, you can choose to boot from the internal hard disc.
- Your Chromebook will now start up in developer mode.
You may run the Chrome OS prompt and install and execute programs that have not been authorized by Google if you enable developer mode.
The stability of your device could be impacted, though, as this also raises the possibility of security breaches.
You can sideload programs and access several functions that are typically closed to regular users once you have access to your Chromebook’s developer mode.
How to Turn Off the Developer Mode on a Chromebook
Please be aware that turning off developer mode will erase all data from your Chromebook. As a result, make a backup of all crucial files before turning off developer mode.
With that done, you may perform the following actions to turn off developer mode on your Chromebook:
- First, turn off your Chromebook.
- Then, on the keyboard, press and hold the Esc and Refresh keys (often the fourth key in the top row with an arrow around it).
- To turn on the Chromebook, hold these keys and then hit the power button.
- When the Developer Mode screen opens, let go of the keys.
- Select Return to Safe Mode using the arrow keys, then hit Enter. Choose Confirm from your next screen.
- Restarting and booting back to the default OS will take place on your Chromebook.
Should you turn off Developer Mode, you won’t have access to the Chrome OS command prompt or be able to install and run unofficial software. To increase the security of your device, it is advised that you turn off Developer Mode when it is no longer required.
Conclusion
Your Chromebook will no longer be safe if you make use of developer mode, which raises the possibility of it being hacked. Before enabling developer mode on your Chromebook, therefore, be sure you are aware of the implications.
