How to Factory Reset an Android Phone: Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

A factory reset restores your Android phone to its original state by erasing all data, apps, and settings. It’s useful when your phone is slow, unresponsive, infected with malware, or you want to sell/transfer it.

This guide will show you how to factory reset an Android phone safely, with step-by-step instructions, backup tips, and solutions to common problems.

1. What is a Factory Reset?

A factory reset is a process that erases all personal data, apps, and settings on your Android phone, restoring it to the state it was in when first purchased.

Tip: It does not remove external SD card data unless you choose that option.

2. Why and When to Factory Reset an Android Phone

Fix Performance Issues: Slow or lagging phone
Remove Malware or Viruses
Resolve Software Errors and Bugs
Before Selling or Giving Away Your Phone
Start Fresh: Clean system without leftover apps or settings

3. Precautions Before Factory Reset

Backup Your Data: Use Google Drive, cloud storage, or PC to save contacts, photos, and files.
Remove Google Account (FRP Protection): Otherwise, phone may ask for previous account login after reset.
Charge Your Phone: At least 50% battery is recommended.
Know Your Device Login Details: PIN, password, or pattern may be required after reset.

4. Ways to Factory Reset an Android Phone

Using Settings Menu

Open Settings → System → Reset options (may vary by device).
Tap Erase all data (factory reset).
Confirm and enter your PIN/password if prompted.
Wait for the phone to restart automatically.

Using Recovery Mode

Power off your Android phone.
Press Volume Up + Power Button (or device-specific combination) to enter Recovery Mode.
Use Volume keys to navigate to Wipe data/factory reset.
Press Power button to select.
Confirm and wait for the process to complete.

Using Find My Device (Remote Reset)

Visit Google Find My Device on PC or another phone.
Sign in with the Google account linked to the device.
Select your phone → Erase Device.
This will remotely factory reset your Android.

5. Step-by-Step Guide to Factory Reset Android

Method 1: Settings Menu

Backup all data.
Go to Settings → System → Reset options → Erase all data.
Enter device PIN/password.
Confirm and wait for reset.
Device restarts like a new phone.

Method 2: Recovery Mode

Power off device.
Enter Recovery Mode using hardware buttons.
Navigate to Wipe data/factory reset using Volume buttons.
Press Power button to confirm.
After reset, select Reboot system now.

Method 3: Remote Reset via Find My Device

Go to Google Find My Device.
Sign in with Google account linked to phone.
Choose your phone → Erase Device.
All data will be deleted remotely.

6. Common Problems and Fixes

Problem	Solution
Phone stuck on boot	Boot into Recovery Mode and reset again
Factory reset not starting	Ensure enough battery, try Settings method
FRP Lock activated	Sign in with previously used Google account
Data not backed up	Use PC or Cloud backup before resetting

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Will factory reset delete SD card data?
A1: No, unless you choose the option to erase SD card as well.

Q2: Can I undo a factory reset?
A2: No, it permanently erases data. Backup is essential.

Q3: How long does a factory reset take?
A3: Usually 5–15 minutes depending on device and data size.

Q4: Will apps I installed be deleted?
A4: Yes, all installed apps and settings will be removed.

Q5: Does factory reset improve phone speed?
A5: Yes, it removes unwanted apps and caches, improving performance.

8. Conclusion

A factory reset is an effective way to fix performance issues, remove malware, or prepare your phone for sale.
Always backup data, remove accounts, and charge your phone before performing a reset.

After reset, your Android will be like new, ready for setup or fresh use.