"Chrome OS is missing or damaged": How to fix error quickly

You open your Chromebook™ and power it on, but an error appears: "Chrome OS is missing or damaged." The error prevents you from accessing the desktop or performing any activities on your device. Panic sets in—is your device beyond repair?

Good news: Asurion Experts help resolve tech problems like this every day. Our millions of customers count on us to deliver solutions that fix device issues. Here's how to fix the "Chrome OS is missing or damaged" error so you can get your Chromebook back to working as it should.

What does the "Chrome OS is missing or damaged" error mean?

The "Chrome OS missing or damaged" error indicates a problem with the Chromebook's operating system or hardware. You may see the error if your device has a corrupted operating system file or malfunctioning component. 

Fixing the "Chrome OS is missing or damaged" error

While worrisome, the "Chrome OS is damaged or missing" error doesn't mean an irreparable Chromebook. Try these solutions to resolve the issue.

Restart your Chromebook

Restarting a Chromebook clears temporary conflicts that prevent regular bootups. 

1. Click Power Off from the recovery screen menu.
2. If the recovery screen menu doesn't display a Power Off option, press the Power button until the Chromebook shuts down.

Alternatively, you can shut down and restart the Chromebook using a key combination.

1. Press and hold the Refresh key. Press the Power button.
2. Release the Refresh key after the Chromebook restarts.

Use the Chromebook Recovery Utility

The Chromebook Recovery Utility app allows you to download the latest Chrome operating system (OS). Once downloaded, you can reinstall the Chrome OS on your device. This solution deletes any personal files or software installed. You need a separate computer and a USB flash drive with at least 8 GB of space for this fix. 

1. Open the Chrome browser on another computer.
2. Download the Chrome Recovery Utility from the Chrome web store.
3. Click Add to Chrome > Add extension.
4. Click Extensions > Manage extensions. 
5. Click on the extension to open the tool.

After launching the Chromebook Recovery Utility, follow these steps to create a USB Chrome OS installer.

1. Click Get Started. 
2. Click Select a model from a list. Select the Chromebook's manufacturer name and model from the options in the drop-down menu.
3. Insert the USB flash drive into the device. Select it from the drop-down menu.
4. Click Create now to download the Chrome OS files.
5. Click Done when the download completes.

Return to the Chromebook to install the Chrome OS using the USB installer.

1. Shut down the Chromebook and unplug any attached devices. 
2. Insert the USB Chrome OS installer into the Chromebook.
3. Press the Esc, Refresh, and Power keys simultaneously to enter recovery mode.
4. Wait for the "External disk with recovery image detected" message to appear.
5. Remove the USB stick when the message "Recovery is now complete" displays.

After the recovery finishes, you can restart the Chromebook and follow the prompts to set up your device.

Check for hardware issues

Chromebooks have a Diagnostics app to test hardware. Following a reinstallation of Chrome OS, run the tests to check for faulty components.

1. Click the time in the system tray. Open Settings.
2. Click About ChromeOS > Diagnostics.
3. Each listed component (Battery, Connectivity, CPU, Memory, and Keyboard) has a testing option. Click Test to run an evaluation for each component.

If the Chromebook fails a test, it may require a hardware replacement. Book an appointment with an experienced technician at uBreakiFix® for further assistance. 

Powerwash your Chromebook

Powerwashing a Chromebook restores its factory settings and erases all files and downloads. If possible, back up your important data before proceeding.

1. Sign out of the Chromebook.
2. Press and hold the Ctrl, Alt, Shift, and r keys.
3. Click Restart > Powerwash > Continue.
4. Follow the prompts to sign into your Google account.
5. After the Chromebook restarts, set up your device by following the on-screen instructions. 

Preventing the "Chrome OS is Missing or Damaged" error

Prevent the error from affecting your Chromebook in the future using these tips.

• Avoiding abrupt shutdowns. Always shut the Chromebook down through the power menu or by pressing the power button. 
• Keeping Chrome OS updated. Chromebooks automatically receive updates when connected to the internet. Check the system tray for update notifications. If a notification appears, select it. Click Restart to install the update. 
• Using reliable internet during updates. Failed updates may corrupt existing system files. Verify you have a stable internet connection before installing an update.

FAQ

Can I recover my Chromebook without a recovery device?

Powerwashing the Chromebook restores it to factory settings without a recovery device. Try this solution if you can't access the Chromebook Utility Recovery app.

How long does it take to fix the Chrome OS missing error?

A quick restart may resolve temporary system conflicts. However, reinstalling the Chrome OS can take up to an hour. 

Will I lose data during recovery?

Reinstalling Chrome OS deletes downloaded and saved files. Back up your device to avoid losing important data.