How to Fix “Security Module Not Working” on Chromebook

Discover effective solutions to resolve the issue of a non-functioning security module on your Chromebook. Get step-by-step guidance and troubleshooting tips on our website.

Chromebooks are known for their speed, simplicity, and security. However, like any electronic device, they can also face technical issues that may disrupt your work and cause frustration. One such issue that users may encounter is the “security module not working” error on their Chromebook.

This error message typically appears when there is a problem with the Embedded Controller (EC) software on the device. The EC is responsible for managing various functions on the Chromebook, including the keyboard, touchpad, and battery. When it malfunctions, it can lead to the “security module not working” error.

If you are facing this issue on your Chromebook, don't worry. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to fix the “security module not working” error and get your Chromebook up and running smoothly.

1. Reset the EC

The first step to resolve this issue is to reset the EC. To do this, press and hold the power button for 4 seconds. This will force the Chromebook to shut down and reset the EC. Once it restarts, check if the error persists.

2. Perform a Cold Boot

If resetting the EC does not solve the problem, try performing a cold boot. To do this, start the device from a powered-off state, initialize the operating system, and clear temporary data. This will refresh the system and may fix any underlying issues causing the error.

3. Reset the Chromebook to Factory Settings

If the previous steps do not work, you can try resetting your Chromebook to factory settings. This will erase all data and settings on the device, so make sure to back up your important files before proceeding.

To reset your Chromebook, press Ctrl + Alt + Shift + R. A pop-up window will appear, select the Powerwash option, and click Continue. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process. Once the reset is done, check if the error is resolved.

4. Use a Recovery USB Stick

If the above methods do not work, the last resort is to use a Recovery USB Stick. This process will reinstall the Chrome OS on your device and fix any issues with the EC software.

To create a recovery USB stick, you will need access to another computer. Download and install the Chrome Recovery Utility from the Chrome Web Store. Launch the app, identify your Chromebook, and click Continue. Insert a USB flash drive, hit the Create now button, and remove the recovery drive when prompted.

Next, enter recovery mode on your Chromebook by holding the Esc and Refresh keys while pressing the power button. Choose the option to reinstall Chrome OS using local media and wait for the reinstallation to complete. Once done, your Chromebook should be free of the “security module not working” error.

The “security module not working” error on your Chromebook can be frustrating, but it can be fixed by following the steps mentioned above. If none of these methods work, it may indicate a hardware issue, and you may need to contact a professional for assistance. However, in most cases, the above steps should resolve the issue and get your Chromebook back to its optimal performance.