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How to Fix a Phone That Keeps Restarting
Edited 2 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team
PhoneRestartingTroubleshootingMobileDevicesPerformanceSettingsAndroidiPhoneHardware
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Today, the phone is a modern device that offers us many features beyond just making calls. However, these complexities can sometimes cause problems, one of the most common of which is the phone restarting on its own repeatedly. This guide explains in simple terms how you can troubleshoot and hopefully fix a phone that repeatedly restarts on its own.
1. Understand why your phone might restart
When a phone restarts on its own, there may be several reasons. Here are some common reasons:
- Software problems: These can be caused by system updates not installing correctly or conflicting apps.
- Hardware issues: Battery-related issues, poor connections, or faulty hardware components may cause a restart.
- Overheating: If the phone gets too hot, it may need to restart to cool down.
- Corrupted data: Sometimes, corrupted files or data can cause instability, resulting in a restart.
- Viruses or malware: Malicious software can interfere with the normal functioning of your phone.
2. Basic first steps
Before moving on to more detailed troubleshooting, try these basic steps to resolve the issue:
2.1. Restart your phone
It may sound counter-intuitive, but a manual restart can sometimes fix temporary glitches. Here's how to restart most phones:
- Press and hold the Power button until the power menu appears.
- Tap "Restart" or "Reboot."
2.2. Charge your phone
Make sure your phone has enough battery power. The phone may restart if the battery is too low. Plug your phone into a charger and let it fully charge before troubleshooting further.
3. Check for system updates
Software updates often include fixes for bugs and other issues. Make sure your phone is running the latest version of its operating system. To check for updates:
- Android: Go to Settings > System > Software update.
- iPhone: Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
4. Clear cache and data
Clearing the cache and data of some apps can solve issues related to corrupted files. Here's how you can do that on Android:
- Go to Settings > Apps or Applications.
- Select the app that is causing the problem.
- Tap Storage > Clear cache and clear data.
On iPhone, you can offload apps to free up space and data:
- Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage.
- Select Apps and choose Offload App.
5. Uninstall problematic apps
If you notice restart problems after installing a new app, this may be the cause of the problem. To uninstall an app:
- Android:
- Go to Settings > Apps.
- Select the app and tap Uninstall.
- iPhone:
- Press and hold an app icon until it starts to jiggle.
- Tap the X and then Delete.
6. Check for malware and viruses
Malware and viruses can cause your phone to behave erratically. To check for and remove malicious software:
- Android: Install a reputable antivirus app from the Google Play Store and perform a scan.
- iPhone: iOS is generally safe, but you can reset your phone to factory settings if you suspect malware.
7. Reset your phone to factory settings
If the other steps haven't resolved the issue, resetting your phone to factory settings may resolve persistent issues. Note that this will erase all data on your phone, so be sure to back up important information first:
7.1. Android factory reset:
- Go to Settings > System > Reset or Backup & reset.
- Tap Factory data reset.
- Confirm the action to reset your device.
7.2. iPhone factory reset:
- Go to Settings > General > Reset.
- Tap Erase All Content and Settings.
8. Hardware problems
If software solutions don't work, the problem may be hardware-related. Here are some troubleshooting steps for hardware problems:
8.1. Check the battery
A bad battery can cause the phone to restart. If your phone has a removable battery, try removing it, cleaning the contacts, and reinserting it. If the battery is not removable, you may need a professional to check or replace it.
8.2. Inspect the charging port
Dirt or debris in the charging port can cause a poor connection, which can lead to restarts. Use a soft brush or compressed air to carefully clean the port.
9. Seek professional help
If none of the above solutions work, it’s time to consult a professional. Take your phone to an authorized service center and have it checked by an expert. They may be able to diagnose and fix hardware problems that aren’t obvious to the common user.
Conclusion
A phone that repeatedly restarts can be frustrating, but by systematically working through these troubleshooting steps, you can often identify and fix the problem. Always remember to back up your data before making significant changes, especially before a factory reset or professional repair. Technology, while highly beneficial, can sometimes present challenges, but with a little patience, most problems can be resolved.
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