Please read the following before beginning
Recovering your Chromebit or Chromebox:
When your Chrome device operating system (OS) isn’t working properly and you’re seeing this error message: "Chrome OS is missing or damaged", you can recover it. Recovery is removing and reinstalling the OS. Note: If you’re using a managed Chrome device, you can refer to your administrator for help. They will be the most immediate and direct contact to assist.
What you need to get started:
The Chrome device with the "Chrome OS is missing or damaged" error
Another computer; a Windows or Mac computer with Chrome installed
A USB flash drive that can hold at least 4 GB, and that you don't mind erasing.
Please Note: Recovery permanently erases everything on your Chromebit's and Chromeboxes’ storage
You can click here to watch a video tutorial that also outlines the same steps below in the article.
Step 1: Download a new copy of the OS
On the working computer:
If you're using a Mac or PC:
Open Chrome browser
Download the recovery app
Open the recovery app
Click Get started
Click Select a model from a list
Click Continue
Insert your USB flash drive into the computer.
In the dropdown menu, choose the USB flash drive you inserted
Click Continue
Click Create now
When you see a message saying that your recovery media is ready, remove the USB flash drive or SD card from the computer.
Step 2: Enter recovery mode
On the Chrome device with the error:
If you have anything connected to this device (such as a mouse or external hard drive), remove it.
Enter recovery mode:
Chromebook: Press and hold Esc + Refresh Refresh, then press Power Power. Let go of Power. When a message shows on the screen, let go of the other keys.
Chromebox: First, turn it off. Using a paper clip or similar object, press and hold the recovery button. Press the Power button to turn the Chromebox back on. When you see a message on screen, release the recovery button.
Chromebit: First, unplug it from power. Using a paper clip or similar object, press and hold the recovery button. Plug the Chromebit back in to power. When you see a message on screen, release the recovery button.
You'll see one of these messages:
"Chrome OS is missing or damaged. Please insert a recovery USB stick or SD card."
"Please insert a recovery USB stick or SD card."
Insert the USB flash drive or SD card that you used to create recovery media.
Follow the on-screen instructions.
You can also watch a step-by-step video below