How to Fix (and Prevent) Recent ChromeOS Errors
Chrome OS users have reported a serious bug in the latest system update that is blocking their access to their Chromebooks. For some reason, Chrome OS is unable to recognize passwords for users’ Google accounts when they try to log in after installing the 91.0.4462.165 update. An unsuccessful update can also cause other serious errors, such as a loop on loading.
According to 9to5Google , update 91.0.4462.165 is no longer available and Google is working on a patch to fix the bugs it caused, which will hopefully be released soon. However, to avoid these issues, do not download or install new Chrome OS updates until it has been confirmed that the new Google fixes are working correctly. If the update has already been downloaded but not yet installed, do not restart your device.
If you’ve already installed Chrome OS version 91.0.4462.165 and encountered an unknown password error, you’ll have to wait for a new update to arrive, but once it’s available, you can safely log in again. Luckily, you’ll be able to log into your Chromebook as a guest and download the update files even if your primary user account is down.
How to Guest Install Chrome OS Updates
- On the Chromebook sign-in screen, click Guest View.
- Once you’re signed in, go to Settings> About Chrome OS.
- Click Check for Updates.
- The update will start automatically if a patch is available.
You can also continue using your Chromebook as a guest while you wait for the patch to be released. This is not the best solution in the long run, as you will not be able to perform certain tasks at the administrator level, and all guest account data, including browsing history and downloaded files, is deleted when you exit guest mode. Still, it’s better than using a Chromebook as a paperweight while Google is working on fixing this round of Chrome OS bugs.
However, you can also do a factory reset to restore full access to your Google account on your Chromebook right now. This deletes all files and apps saved on your device, deletes your Google accounts, and restores system defaults. We do not recommend performing a factory reset unless you absolutely need to restore access to your Google Account on your Chromebook right away .
How to factory reset your Chromebook
- At the login screen, press and hold the Ctrl + Alt + Shift + r keys.
- Click Restart.
- Select “Powerwash”.
- Click Continue.
- Wait for the reset process to take place and follow the onscreen instructions when they appear.
- Sign in to your Google account when prompted.
Use Recovery Utility to Repair Chromebook Stuck in Boot Loop
Unfortunately, none of these workarounds apply to users experiencing a boot loop. Instead, you need to create a ChromeOS USB recovery media using a separate Chromebook or PC, a USB flash drive, and the Chromebook recovery utility . Download the utility, follow the instructions, then plug it into the affected Chromebook to reinstall Chrome OS. This will clean up your device just like a factory reset, but it’s your only option if you want to get your Chromebook back up and running.
[ Android Central ]