Start Factory Reset Guide: A Complete Step-by-Step Walkthrough
A factory reset can solve many persistent problems on your smartphone—whether it’s freezing, crashing, or running slowly. It’s also a must-do step if you’re planning to sell or give away your device. This guide will show you how to safely perform a factory reset on both Android and iPhone devices, step by step.
Step 1: Understand What a Factory Reset Does
Before diving into the process, it’s important to know what a factory reset involves:
- Erases all personal data, including photos, messages, and installed apps.
- Removes system settings, saved Wi-Fi passwords, and Bluetooth pairings.
- Returns the device to its original factory condition.
Once the reset is done, there’s no way to undo it, so make sure you’re ready.
Step 2: Backup Important Data
To avoid losing valuable information, back up your data before resetting.
- On Android:
- Open Settings.
- Go to Google > Backup.
- Enable Back up to Google Drive.
- On iPhone:
- Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
- Tap Back Up Now.
You can also use external storage or cloud services like Google Photos or iTunes.
Step 3: Sign Out of Your Accounts
This is especially crucial to disable device protection features like Google FRP or Apple Activation Lock.
- Android:
- Go to Settings > Accounts.
- Select your Google account and tap Remove Account.
- iPhone:
- Navigate to Settings > [Your Name].
- Scroll down and tap Sign Out.
This ensures the next user won’t be blocked during setup.
Step 4: Charge Your Battery
Ensure your device is charged to at least 50%, or plug it into a power source. A reset that is interrupted due to low battery can damage your operating system.
Step 5: Factory Reset on Android
Follow these steps:
- Open Settings.
- Tap System or General Management (varies by device).
- Tap Reset Options or Reset.
- Choose Erase All Data (Factory Reset).
- Read the warning and tap Reset Phone or Erase Everything.
- Enter your PIN, pattern, or password if prompted.
- Confirm and let the phone reboot.
This may take a few minutes, and once it’s done, your phone will start as if it’s brand new.
Step 6: Factory Reset on iPhone
Use the following steps:
- Open Settings.
- Tap General.
- Scroll to Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Tap Erase All Content and Settings.
- Enter your passcode and Apple ID if requested.
- Tap Erase iPhone to confirm.
The iPhone will restart, erase all data, and return to its initial setup screen.
Step 7: Set Up Your Device Again
After the reset, the device will reboot and present you with a welcome or setup screen.
- Select your language and region.
- Connect to Wi-Fi.
- Log in with your Google or Apple ID.
- Restore your backup or set up as new.
Take your time to customize your preferences and reinstall your favorite apps.
Step 8: Recheck System Settings and Updates
After the reset:
- Go to Settings > System > Software Update to ensure you have the latest version.
- Re-enable features like fingerprint or facial recognition.
- Reinstall necessary apps from the Play Store or App Store.
This will ensure a smooth and optimized experience going forward.