A lot of us use Samsung phones these days. In fact, Samsung had achieved a 20.8% market share in 2024. 

Is your Samsung phone thoda slow or facing software glitches that just won’t go away? A factory reset might be the jaadu ki chhadi you need!

Fret not, factory reset on your Samsung phone brings your device back to life by erasing all data and returning it to its original settings, giving you a clean slate.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through resetting your Samsung phone while ensuring you’re well-prepared to back up important data and avoid potential pitfalls. 

Chalo, shuru karte hain aur phone ko fresh banate hain!

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Why Perform a Factory Reset?

A factory reset restores a device to its original state by erasing all data, settings, and installed applications. This process can be helpful in various situations, from improving performance to fixing major software issues. Below are the key reasons you might need to perform a factory reset.

1. Fix Performance Issues

Over time, devices can slow down due to accumulated temporary files, background processes, and software bloat. A factory reset helps:

• Remove unnecessary files and cached data that may be slowing down the system.
• Improve speed and responsiveness by giving the device a fresh start.
• Resolve lagging and freezing issues caused by outdated system files.

A factory reset can significantly enhance performance if your device is consistently slow despite clearing the cache and managing storage.

2. Remove Malware or Viruses

Malware and viruses can infect devices through malicious apps, emails, or websites. Some malware is difficult to remove using standard antivirus tools. A factory reset:

• It completely wipes out any malicious software hiding in the system.
• Removes unauthorised access that may have been granted to hackers.
• Protects personal information from being stolen due to persistent malware threats.

A factory reset might be necessary if your device exhibits unusual behaviour, such as frequent pop-ups, unknown apps, or excessive battery drain.

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3. Resolve Software Errors and System Glitches

Frequent crashes, app malfunctions, and system bugs can frustrate a device. A factory reset helps by:

• Restoring the system to its original, stable state.
• Eliminating software conflicts caused by incompatible updates or installations.
• Fixing unresponsive touchscreens, random restarts, and app failures.

If software troubleshooting methods (like updating the OS or clearing app data) do not work, a factory reset can be an effective solution.

4. Prepare for Resale or Transfer

If you plan to sell, donate, or give away your device, a factory reset ensures that:

• All personal data, including contacts, messages, photos, and saved passwords, is permanently deleted.
• Accounts, such as Google or Apple ID, are removed, preventing unauthorised access.
• The new user receives a fresh, like-new device experience.

Before performing a reset for resale, ensure you back up important files and sign out of all accounts to avoid issues with activation locks.

5. Free Up Storage Space

Devices can accumulate unnecessary files, cached data, and unused apps over time, leading to storage shortages. A factory reset:

• Removes all unwanted apps and data, freeing up valuable space.
• Clears hidden files that take up storage without the user’s knowledge.
• It helps in optimising storage for better performance and smoother operation.

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A reset can provide a clean start if your device runs out of storage despite deleting files.

6. Restore Default Settings

Sometimes, users modify too many system settings, leading to unintended consequences. A factory reset:

• Reverts all system configurations to their default state.
• Eliminates conflicting settings that may cause connectivity or functionality issues.
• It helps users unsure of what changes have affected the device’s performance.

If your device behaves unpredictably due to excessive customisation, a factory reset can help restore it to its optimal condition.

A factory reset is an effective way to refresh a device, remove issues, and enhance performance. However, always ensure you have backed up critical data before initiating the process!

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Now that you know why a factory reset might be what your phone needs, let's make sure we prepare properly for it!

Preparing Your Samsung Phone for a Factory Reset

A survey highlighted that 22% of respondents never back up their data, and 15% do so only once every two months. 

A reset can wipe everything—photos, contacts, and essential files—so taking the right steps beforehand is critical. To avoid losing valuable information and ensure a seamless transition back to default settings, follow this comprehensive guide:

1. Backup Important Data

A factory reset erases all kinds of data from your phone. To avoid losing essential information, make sure to back up your data:

• Google Drive: Use Drive storage services to back up contacts, calendar events, photos, and documents.
• External Storage: Transfer photos, videos, and files to the card or an external device if your phone has an SD card.
• Computer Backup: You can also connect your phone to your computer and transfer important files manually.

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2. Sign Out of Accounts

Signing out of your accounts before performing a factory reset will ensure that your data is not accessible to others, especially if you’re planning to sell or give away your phone. Here’s how to do it:

• Google Account: For Samsung users, go to Settings > Accounts > Google and sign out. This will prevent activation lock after the reset.
• Other Accounts: Log out from other accounts like social media, email apps, or any apps with sensitive data.

3. Remove External Storage (SD Card, SIM Card)

It’s always a good idea to remove your SD card and SIM card before performing a factory reset:

• SD Card: Removing your SD card ensures that your personal files stored on the card are not accidentally deleted.
• SIM Card: Removing your SIM card prevents it from being affected during the reset and ensures your phone number remains intact.

4. Deactivate or Remove Security Features

Some phones have security features like screen locks, fingerprint scanners, and face recognition that may be tied to your device’s account. Deactivating these features before the reset can help prevent any issues during the process:

• Screen Lock: Disable any form of screen lock (PIN, password, pattern) in the Security section of your phone’s settings.

5. Check for Software Updates

Before resetting, make sure your phone's software is up-to-date:

• Update the Operating System: Go to Settings > Software Update to check for any available system updates. An updated system will ensure the reset process goes smoothly.
• Update Apps: Updating apps can prevent potential issues with app data loss or compatibility after the reset.

6. Uninstall Unwanted Apps

If you plan to resell or pass on your phone, uninstall apps that contain sensitive or unnecessary data. This reduces the clutter and makes the reset process more effective.

• Remove Personal Apps: Uninstall messaging, email, and social media apps tied to your personal data.
• Clear App Data: If you don’t want to uninstall apps, clear their cache and data by going to Settings > Apps and selecting the apps from which you want to clear data.

7. Make a Note of Your Important Settings

If you have custom settings on your phone (such as Wi-Fi passwords, app preferences, or home screen layout), taking note of them before resetting is a good idea. This way, you can quickly restore your settings after the reset.

8. Charge Your Phone

Ensure that your phone has enough battery before starting the reset process. A factory reset can take time, and you don’t want your phone to run out of battery. Aim for at least 50% battery, or keep it plugged into a charger during the reset.

Preparing your phone for a factory reset ensures your personal data is secure and the reset process goes smoothly. Following these steps can avoid data loss and ensure your phone is ready for a fresh start or its next owner.

Also read: How To Locate Phone's IMEI Number On Android Devices.

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You've got everything ready, so it's time for the main event—resetting your phone!

How Can You Perform a Factory Reset on Your Phone

Performing a factory reset on your Samsung phone restores it to its original settings, erasing all data, apps, and personal information. Samsung has outlined specific steps to reset your phone safely and effectively. Here’s a step-by-step guide to performing a factory reset on your Samsung phone.

Step 1: Remove External Storage (SD Card and SIM Card)

To prevent accidental data loss or disruption to your mobile service:

• Remove your SD card if you have one to keep personal files safe.
• Remove your SIM card to retain your mobile number and avoid activation issues.

Step 2: Perform the Factory Reset

Once you've completed the backup and sign-out process, you can proceed to reset the phone:

1. Open Settings: Tap the Settings app from your home screen or apps menu.
2. Go to General Management: Scroll down and tap on General Management.
3. Select Reset: Tap on Reset under the General Management menu.
4. Choose Factory Data Reset: Select Factory data reset.
5. Read the Information: You’ll be presented with a summary of the data that will be erased. Scroll down and tap Reset.
6. Enter PIN or Password: If prompted, enter your PIN, password, or pattern to confirm the reset.
7. Confirm Reset: Tap on Delete all to confirm and start the reset process.

Step 3: Wait for the Reset Process to Complete

Your Samsung phone will now begin the factory reset. This can take a few minutes. Once complete, your phone will reboot and display the initial setup screen.

Step 4: Set Up Your Phone Again

After the factory reset, your Samsung phone will return to its default settings. You can now proceed with the setup:

• Log into Your Google Account: Sign in to account to restore contacts, calendar events, and apps.
• Log into Your Samsung Account: Sign in to your Samsung account to access Samsung Cloud and other services.
• Restore Backups: If you have backed up data via Google or Samsung Cloud, you can restore it during setup.

A factory reset is a straightforward process, but it's important to back up the data beforehand to avoid losing valuable information. Once the reset is complete, you’ll have a fresh start with your phone, ready for setup and use.

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Tips to Factory Rest on Samsung Phone Without Password

If you need to factory reset a Samsung phone without a password, follow these steps:

Method 1: Using Recovery Mode (Hard Reset)

1 Turn off the phone.

• If the device is unresponsive, press and hold the Power + Volume Down buttons until it forces a shutdown.

2 Enter Recovery Mode.

• Press and hold the Volume Up + Power + Bixby (if available) buttons simultaneously until you see the Samsung logo.
• You can release them when the Android Recovery screen is shown.

3 Perform the Factory Reset.

• Go to "Wipe data/factory reset” by using the Volume buttons.
• Press the Power button to confirm.
• Select "Factory data reset" and confirm.

4 Reboot the Device.

• Select "Reboot system now” once the reset is complete.

Method 2: Using Samsung’s Find My Mobile (If Enabled)

If you have Samsung Find My Mobile set up:

1. Go to Find My Mobile on another device.
2. Log in with your Samsung account.
3. Select your phone and click "Erase Data."

Method 3: Using Google’s Find My Device (If Enabled)

1. Visit Find My Device on a computer or another phone.
2. Sign in with the Google account that is linked to the phone.
3. Select your device and choose "Erase Device."
4. Confirm to wipe all data.

Important Notes:

• FRP (Factory Reset Protection) will require you to log in with the previous Google account after resetting.
• If locked due to a forgotten Google/Samsung account, you may need to bypass FRP using additional methods.

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Conclusion

A factory reset for your Samsung phone can restore its performance, resolve software issues, and clear up space. Whether you're tackling performance slowdowns, eliminating malware, or preparing your device for resale, a reset can give your phone a fresh start. Back up all your important data before beginning the process to avoid losing valuable information.

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FAQs

1. What happens when I reset my Samsung phone?

Resetting your phone will make it return to its original factory settings, erasing all data, installed apps, and customised settings. It will be as if you’re using a brand-new device.

2. How can I do a factory reset on my Samsung phone?

Navigate to Settings > General Management > Reset > Factory Data Reset. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

3. Will all my data be deleted after a factory reset?

A reset will erase all personal files, apps, and settings. To avoid losing important information, back up your data to a cloud or external storage beforehand.

4. Can I reset my Samsung phone if it’s unresponsive?

If your phone is frozen or not responding, there is the option of a hard reset by holding the Volume Up + Power buttons together until the Samsung logo appears.