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As technology advances, it's inevitable that devices in your fleet will eventually reach the end of their lifecycle. Whether you're an educational institution or a business, properly decommissioning devices before selling them is crucial to protect sensitive information and ensure a smooth transition. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to decommission a device effectively and securely.

1) Verify Developer Mode Compatibility

Before beginning the decommissioning process, ensure that your device can enter developer mode. Check for the following: No GBB Flag (Google Binary Block) or System Policy: These restrictions are usually put in place during the enrollment process to prevent students from accessing certain features like developer mode. Ability to Enter VT2 (Virtual Terminal 2): VT2 is the primary console used to modify VPD (Virtual Product Data) and access other important features not available through the main Chrome GUI. Ensure that you can change VPD attributes such as serial numbers, sds, service tag, etc.

2) Confirm Device Functionality

It's essential to ensure that the device is fully functional before proceeding with decommissioning. Perform the following checks: All Ports: Verify that all ports are in working order. Keyboard/Trackpad: Test the keyboard and trackpad for proper functionality. Touchscreen (if applicable): If the device has a touchscreen, ensure that it responds accurately to touch inputs.

3) Remove Domain Lock

If your device displays a domain lock on the lock screen, it indicates that it is managed by a specific domain or organization. Follow these steps to remove the domain lock: Navigate to the lock screen and check for the domain information. Contact the domain administrator or IT department to release the domain lock.

4) Ensure a Fully Functioning Operating System

A functional operating system is essential for a smooth transition to the new owner. Confirm that the OS is working correctly, including system updates and necessary applications.

5) Power Wash the Device

Perform a power wash to restore the device to its factory settings and remove any personal data. Enter command CTRL+SHFT+ALT+R in VT2, or follow these steps: Go to the Chrome OS settings menu. Click on "Advanced" and scroll down to find the "Powerwash" section. Select "Powerwash" and follow the prompts to initiate the process. After the power wash, confirm that the device is not locked and can be set up by a new user.

6) Remove School Serialization Tags

Before selling the device, it's advisable to remove any school serialization tags, stickers, or badges. While most resellers will remove excessive glue, it's best to leave the device in a clean and presentable condition.

 

Properly decommissioning devices is crucial when retiring and selling your fleet. By following these steps, you can ensure that sensitive data is erased, the device is fully functional, and any restrictions are removed. Remember always to prioritize security and take necessary precautions to protect both your organization and the future owner of the device. For more detailed information on OS wiping, refer to Google's guide on the topic: Link to Google's In-Depth Explanation on OS Wiping If you're interested in a reliable device buyback solution for your school, consider our trusted partner, Tech Defenders, to sell your fleet of devices.