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How to Reset Your Android Phone to Factory Settings
Edited 3 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team
Factory ResetAndroidMobileSmartphoneDevice ManagementPhone SettingsGoogleDevice ConfigurationGoogle ServicesPersonal InformationUser InterfaceDevice CustomizationDevice PerformanceData BackupDevice SecurityBackup SolutionsDevice SettingsDevice OptimizationOperating SystemData Management
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Resetting an Android phone to its factory settings can be a necessary step for a variety of reasons. Perhaps your phone is running slower than usual, you're having persistent problems, or you're planning to sell it and want to delete your personal data. Restoring your phone to factory settings can help you get a fresh start or make sure your data is safe. In this guide, we'll walk you through the entire process.
Understanding factory reset
A factory reset, also known as a hard reset, restores the device to the same state it was in when it left the factory. This means all your data, apps, and settings will be erased. This is one of the most effective ways to fix problems caused by software glitches or malware. Before proceeding, make sure all important data is backed up.
Preparing for a factory reset
1. Back up your data
Start by backing up important data like contacts, photos, and documents. You can use Google's built-in backup service or a third-party app. Google Backup will save your information to your Google account. To ensure backup, go to Settings > System > Backup and make sure Backup is turned on.
2. Charge your phone
It is wise to fully charge the phone before resetting. If the device loses power during the process, it may not completely erase the data or cause temporary memory corruption.
3. Delete external storage
If your phone has a microSD card, remove it. This will prevent you from losing important files and also reduce the risk of accidentally formatting it during the reset.
4. Deactivate security features
Some Android phones have a security feature called Device Protection. When a device with this feature is reset, you must log in with your Google account to complete the restart. Do this by going to Settings > Security > Find my device.
Steps to reset your Android phone
1. Access the Settings menu
Open your phone's Settings menu: This is usually accessed through the app drawer or by tapping the gear icon on the notification shade.
2. Initiate a factory reset
- Scroll down and select System, then choose Reset options.
- Tap Erase all data (factory reset). On some phones, this option may appear as Factory data reset or Backup and reset.
3. Review the warnings
Review the warnings displayed. It reminds you that this process will erase all data on your device.
4. Confirm the reset
Tap Reset Phone at the bottom of the screen. If you use a PIN or password, you'll be asked to enter it to continue. This is your phone's way of confirming your identity one last time before erasing your data.
5. Start the process
The phone will begin the reset process. This may take a few minutes, and your phone will restart several times as it goes through each stage of the reset.
Alternative method: Using recovery mode
If you are unable to turn on your phone to access the general settings menu, you can try a factory reset through the recovery mode.
1. Turn off the device
Press and hold the Power button until your device shuts down completely. If it doesn't respond, you may need to remove the battery, if your phone supports it.
2. Enter the recovery mode
The method for entering this mode varies by manufacturer:
- Generally: Press and hold Power + Volume Down button.
- Samsung: Press and hold Power + Volume Up + Home button.
3. Use the Recovery Mode menu
Once in Recovery mode, navigate using the Volume buttons and select options using the Power button. Look for and select Wipe data/factory reset.
4. Confirm factory reset
You may need to confirm your choice. Navigate to Yes using the Volume keys and select it with the Power button.
After the reset
Setting up your phone will feel similar to what it did when it was newly unboxed. You'll need to go through the initial Android setup process, enter Google credentials, set your device preferences, reconnect to Wi-Fi, and, in some cases, verify your device with a Google password.
1. Restore your data
Once you return to the home screen and set up an internet connection, you can restore your data. Your Google account should sync your previous apps, contacts, and other relevant information back to your device.
2. Reinstall apps
Depending on your preferences, you may want to manually install apps through the Google Play Store. Check the Library section of your Google Play for any apps already downloaded.
Troubleshooting common problems
1. The device is not responding
If your device stops responding or does not boot up properly after a factory reset, try accessing Recovery mode again and repeating the reset procedure. Check for physical problems or ensure full charge.
2. Google Account Verification
If your device is blocked due to Google's Factory Reset Protection (FRP), verify with the account originally used on the phone. It's very important to remember these login details, especially if you transfer the device to a new owner.
3. Data restoration concerns
If your data isn't restoring as expected, confirm that backup features were enabled and that you're logged into the correct Google account. Double-check Google Drive or related cloud services.
Conclusion
Performing a factory reset on an Android phone is a straightforward process that provides a clean slate by erasing all personal data, apps, and settings. By following the recommended steps, ensuring backups are in place, and being prepared for the new setup process, you can refresh your device with minimal stress. Being patient and organized will help avoid any hassles and make it easier to get back to a well-functioning mobile experience.
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