How to disable a Chromebook

Problem

You want to disable or enable Chromebook while a person is on vacation.

Environment

  • ChromeOS

Solution

  1. Log in to the Admin console.
  2. Go to Devices > Chrome devices.
  3. At the top, use the filter to select the current status of the device that you want to disable. See Device status view in Admin console for details.
  4. To apply the setting to everyone, leave the top organizational unit selected. Otherwise, select a child organizational unit.
  5. Check the box next to the device that you want to disable.
  6. At the top, click Disable selected devices.
  7. Choose an option:
    • Disable with lock screen to block any use of the device until it's enabled again—Users can’t sign in or use devices until you re-enable them in the Admin console.
    • Disable with factory reset to block any use of the device and remove all data including user profiles, device policies, and enrollment data—With forced re-enrollment turned on, users can’t sign in or use devices until you re-enable them in the Admin console. If forced re-enrollment is turned off, users can use devices without re-enrolling them into your account.
  8. Click Disable.
    • Note: We recommend that you display a message that includes a return address and contact phone number. For details about how to add a message, read Disabled device return instructions.