A factory reset might be a useful fix if your Android device is locked, you’re giving it to someone else, or you’re having performance problems. We’ll walk you through the process of doing an Android device factory reset in this guide.
What is Factory Reset?
An electronic device can be returned to its original factory settings by performing a factory reset, sometimes referred to as a hard reset or master reset. All user data, settings, and program’s that have been added to the device since it was first made are deleted during this procedure. In essence, it puts the gadget back in its “straight out of the box” condition.
Factory resets are frequently carried out to solve problems with a device, erase personal information before to selling or gifting the device, or just start over with a blank slate. It is vital to remember that a factory reset will erase all personal data, including installed apps, contacts, messages, and images. For this reason, you should make a backup of any critical data before starting the reset.
Why Do You Want to Reset Your Android Device?
There are several reasons your Android device can benefit from a factory reset. For instance, unneeded files, cache, and program clutter can build up on your phone and affect its functionality. It’s possible that malware that you can’t remove is affecting your device. You can get rid of these problems and return your device to its initial configuration by performing a factory reset. A factory reset guarantees your data is totally erased, protecting your privacy, if you intend to sell or give away your smartphone.
Things to Consider Before Factory Resetting Your Android Device.
There are a few essential actions you should do to guarantee a seamless factory reset before you jump in and start the process:
1. Make a data backup
It is imperative that you backup all of your important files, pictures, movies, and other material that you wish to save because a factory reset would erase everything from your device. You can use cloud storage services, copy files to a PC, or create a backup of your data to your Google account.
2. Make important notes
Make a note of any account details, passwords, or app settings that you might need to enter again following the reset. When your device starts up again, this will help you prevent any hassle.
3. Charge your device
Because a factory reset might take up to an hour, you don’t want it to die in the middle. Verify that your smartphone has a minimum of 70% charge.
4. Turn off Factory Reset Protection (FRP)
Make sure you turn off Factory Reset Protection before resetting your device if you intend to sell it or give it away. To stop someone else from resetting your phone, Factory Reset Protection (FRP) requires you to input the Google password linked to the device both before and after a factory reset. In the “Security” area of your device’s settings, you can turn off FRP.
Detailed instructions for performing a factory reset on an Android device
Note: Since a factory reset is irreversible, always make a backup copy of any crucial data before moving further.
How to use settings to factory reset an Android device
Here are the things to take if your device is working and you can access the settings:
Step1.
Open the device settings from the app drawer or notifications panel.
Step2.
Go to the System section, then select Reset or Backup & Reset.
Step3.
Choose Factory Data Reset > Reset Phone. Confirm your choice and enter any required passwords or PINs.
Step4.
Your device will restart after the reset is complete.
How to use recovery mode to perform a factory reset on your Android device
You can utilize recovery mode if your device is having problems that keep it from booting up normally:
Step1.
Turn off the device.
Step2.
Press and hold the appropriate button combination (varies by device) to enter recovery mode.
Step3.
Use the volume buttons to navigate to Wipe Data/Factory Reset and use the power button to confirm.
Step4.
Confirm again and allow the device to reset.
Step5.
Select Reboot System Now after completion.
How to perform a factory reset on a locked Android smartphone.
If your forgotten password, PIN, or pattern has locked you out of your Android device, you can still do a factory reset by following these steps:
Step1.
After several incorrect attempts, you’ll see an option to enter your Google account credentials.
Step2.
Enter your Google account email and password to unlock your device.
Step3.
Once unlocked, navigate to the device settings, find the System section, select Reset or Backup & Reset, and opt for Factory Data Reset.
How to use buttons to factory reset an Android device
Here’s how to reset your device with physical buttons, if that’s your preference:
Step1.
Turn off your device.
Step2.
Simultaneously press and hold the power button and the volume down/up button (button combination varies by device).
Step3.
Once the device vibrates or shows the logo, release the buttons to enter recovery mode.
Step4.
Use the volume buttons to navigate to Factory Reset or Wipe Data/Factory Reset and use the power button to confirm.
Step5.
Confirm again and allow the device to reset.
Select Reboot System Now after completion.
