Overview

Sometimes a Chromebook may fail to load the standard sign-in screen and instead display the message:

“Chromebook password has changed since the last time you signed in…”

This issue typically occurs when the device’s local storage becomes full, often due to accumulated downloads or multiple user profiles stored on the Chromebook. When storage is full, ChromeOS cannot load the user profile correctly, resulting in this error message.

Fortunately, this issue is easy to resolve and does not affect student work saved in Google Drive.

How to Fix the Issue

1. Click “Forgot old password?”

At the bottom of the error screen, click:

“Forgot old password?”

2. Confirm Local Data Deletion

A new message will appear:

“Local data will be deleted.”

This refers only to files stored locally on the Chromebook.
Click “Continue anyway.”

What Gets Deleted?

This process removes locally stored data, freeing up the space needed for successful sign-in.

The following items WILL be deleted:

• Files stored in the Downloads folder

• Any locally saved items in the Files app

• Cached user profile data

The following items WILL NOT be deleted:

• Anything saved in Google Drive

How to Prevent This Issue

To minimize the chances of this error recurring, please follow these guidelines:

1. Limit Chromebooks to a Single User

Whenever possible, Chromebooks—especially cart devices—should be assigned to a single student, not used at random.
Multiple user profiles take up device storage quickly, contributing to the error.

2. Clear Downloads Regularly

Students should frequently check their Downloads folder and remove unnecessary files.
Downloaded items are stored locally and can quickly fill the Chromebook’s limited memory.

3. Move Important Files to Google Drive Immediately

Remind students to save all important files directly to Google Drive instead of keeping them on the device.
Using Drive ensures files are safely stored in the cloud and prevents local storage from filling up.

When to Contact Tech Support

Submit a helpdesk ticket if:

• The error continues after completing the steps

• The device repeatedly fills its local storage

• The Chromebook fails to load the sign-in screen or gets stuck in a loop