If you’ve been encountering performance issues, software glitches, or planning to sell or give away your Samsung Galaxy S20 FE, wiping your device clean by performing a factory reset might be the solution you’re looking for. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step and provide insights into why a factory reset can be beneficial. Let’s delve into how to restore your Samsung S20 FE to its original factory settings.
Understanding Factory Reset
A factory reset returns your device to the settings it had when it first left the factory. It completely removes all user data, customized settings, and downloaded applications. This process can help in:
- Resolving persistent software issues
- Improving device performance
- Erasing sensitive personal data before selling or donating
However, it’s crucial to remember that a factory reset is irreversible, meaning you will lose all your data unless you perform a backup beforehand. Now, let’s explore how to do that.
Preparing for a Factory Reset
Before you jump into resetting your Samsung S20 FE, there are a few preparatory steps to take.
1. Backup Your Data
Backing up your data is essential. Whether it’s photos, contacts, or apps, ensure that all important information is safely stored. You can use several methods to back up your data, such as:
- Using Samsung Cloud
- Utilizing third-party applications like Google Drive
2. Charge Your Device
Make sure your Samsung S20 FE has at least a 50% charge. A factory reset can take a while, and you wouldn’t want your device to turn off mid-process, potentially causing issues.
Methods to Factory Reset Samsung S20 FE
You can perform a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy S20 FE in two primary ways: through the settings menu or via the hardware buttons. Let’s explore each method in detail.
Method 1: Factory Reset through Settings
The simplest way to perform a factory reset is through your phone’s settings. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Go to Settings
- Unlock your Samsung S20 FE.
- Swipe down from the top of the screen to access the notification panel.
- Tap on the Settings icon (which looks like a gear).
Step 2: Navigate to General Management
- Scroll down in the Settings menu and select General Management.
- You will find various options related to your device’s management.
Step 3: Access Reset Options
- Tap on Reset at the bottom of the General Management menu.
- You will see several reset options.
Step 4: Select Factory Data Reset
- Choose Factory Data Reset from the available options.
- You will see a screen describing what will be removed from your device.
Step 5: Confirm the Reset
- Scroll to the bottom of the screen and tap on Reset.
- If your device has a security lock (PIN, pattern, or password), you will be prompted to enter it.
- Finally, tap on Delete All to confirm.
Your Samsung S20 FE will now restart and begin the factory reset process. This may take a few minutes, and once it’s complete, the phone will boot up as if it’s brand new.
Method 2: Factory Reset via Hardware Buttons
In case your device is not responding or you cannot access the settings menu, you can perform a factory reset using the hardware buttons.
Step 1: Turn Off Your Device
- Press and hold the Power button.
- Select Power Off to turn off the device.
Step 2: Enter Recovery Mode
- Once the device is completely off, press and hold the Volume Up and the Power buttons simultaneously.
- Release both buttons when you see the Samsung logo to enter Recovery Mode.
Step 3: Navigate Recovery Menu
- Use the Volume buttons to scroll through the options in recovery mode.
- Highlight Wipe Data/Factory Reset using the volume buttons.
Step 4: Confirm Factory Reset
- Press the Power button to select the option.
- Use the volume buttons to navigate to the Yes option and confirm with the Power button.
Step 5: Reboot System
- After the factory reset is complete, the recovery menu will appear again.
- Select the Reboot System Now option and press the Power button.
Your Galaxy S20 FE will now restart, and you will have a clean slate to work with.
Post-Factory Reset: Setting Up Your Device
Once your Samsung S20 FE restarts after the factory reset, you’ll need to set it up as if it were new.
Sign in to Your Google Account
During the setup process, you will be prompted to sign in to your Google account. This step is crucial for restoring apps and data you backed up earlier.
Configure Your Device Settings
You will have the opportunity to set your preferences regarding location settings, privacy, and more. Take your time to ensure that your device is tailored to your needs.
Restore Backed-Up Data
If you backed up your data, you can restore it during the setup process. Follow the on-screen prompts to retrieve your contacts, photos, and any other vital information.
Tips and Advice for Samsung S20 FE Users
Now that you know how to perform a factory reset, it’s essential to keep a few tips in mind for maintaining your Samsung S20 FE post-reset.
Regular Backups
Stay organized and avoid data loss by regularly backing up your files using Samsung Cloud or Google Drive. This practice ensures you can quickly recover your data if you ever need to reset your device again.
Monitor Device Performance
After factory resetting, pay attention to how your device performs. If you still experience issues, it may be a sign of hardware problems, and consulting a professional might be necessary.
Educate Yourself About Apps
Be cautious when downloading apps from third-party sources. Stick to the Google Play Store or Samsung Galaxy Store to reduce the risk of installing malware that could affect performance.
Conclusion
Performing a factory reset can breathe new life into your Samsung Galaxy S20 FE, helping to eliminate nagging issues and resetting everything to its original state. Remember to backup all your essential data and perform a factory reset only when necessary.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently reset your device and set it up for a fresh start. Whether you’re prepping to sell your phone or just want to enhance its performance, a factory reset can be an effective solution. Enjoy your rejuvenated Samsung S20 FE!
Why should I factory reset my Samsung S20 FE?
Factory resetting your Samsung S20 FE can resolve various issues, such as persistent glitches, slow performance, or software malfunctions. If your device is not responding well or you’re preparing to sell or give it away, a factory reset erases all personal data, restoring it to its default settings.
Additionally, a factory reset can help improve your phone’s overall performance. Clearing out old data, unused apps, and cached files can free up internal storage, resulting in a smoother and faster experience. It’s important, however, to back up your data before proceeding, as the reset process will permanently delete everything on the device.
How do I back up my data before a factory reset?
To back up your data, you can use Samsung’s built-in features, such as Smart Switch, or leverage cloud services like Google Drive. Smart Switch allows you to transfer files to a computer or another device easily, and it’s user-friendly with a simple interface guiding you through the process.
If you prefer using cloud services, ensure that important information such as contacts, calendars, photos, and documents are backed up to your Google account or Samsung Cloud. Once you’ve confirmed that all critical data is safely backed up, you can confidently proceed with the factory reset.
What is the step-by-step process to factory reset my Samsung S20 FE?
To factory reset your Samsung S20 FE, start by navigating to the “Settings” app on your device. Scroll down and select “General Management,” then tap on “Reset.” From the options presented, choose “Factory data reset.” This will present you with information about the data that will be erased from your device.
After reviewing the important information, scroll down and select “Reset.” You may need to enter your PIN, password, or pattern if you have one set up. Finally, confirm your choice by tapping “Delete all.” Your device will now begin the reset process, and once complete, it will reboot to the initial setup screen.
Will a factory reset delete my SD card data?
No, performing a factory reset on your Samsung S20 FE will not delete the data stored on your SD card. The factory reset process primarily affects the internal storage of your device, erasing apps, settings, and personal files. However, it’s always wise to back up your SD card data to avoid any unintended loss.
Still, be cautious about any files that may be linked or associated with apps on your internal storage. If you’re unsure about saving anything critical, consider transferring your SD card data to a computer or cloud storage as a precautionary measure before resetting.
Can I recover my data after a factory reset?
Recovering data after a factory reset can be challenging. Once you initiate a factory reset, the device begins deleting all data stored on the internal memory, making it difficult to retrieve once it’s been removed. If you didn’t back up your data before the reset, your chances of recovery are slim.
However, if you have previously taken steps to save your data to a cloud service or external storage, you can restore it after the reset by logging into your accounts. Tools and software solutions exist that claim to recover deleted files, but success is not guaranteed, and they may not be able to restore data deleted from a factory reset.
Is a factory reset the same as rebooting my device?
No, a factory reset is not the same as rebooting your device. Rebooting simply restarts your phone and can help resolve temporary issues like lag or unresponsiveness without affecting your personal data or installed applications. It’s a quick fix for minor problems.
On the other hand, a factory reset is a more permanent process that erases all data and settings, returning the device to its original state. This process is used for more severe issues or when you want to set up the device as new. Therefore, use rebooting for minor troubles and a factory reset for significant problems or preparation for a new owner.
Can I perform a factory reset if I forgot my password?
Yes, you can perform a factory reset on your Samsung S20 FE even if you forgot your password, but it requires accessing recovery mode. To do this, you will need to turn off your device first. Once it’s off, press and hold the Volume Up and Power buttons simultaneously until you see the Samsung logo.
After entering recovery mode, use the volume buttons to navigate to “Wipe data/factory reset” and select it using the Power button. Confirm your choice, and once the reset is complete, you can reboot your device. This method will erase everything on your phone, including the forgotten password, allowing you to set it up afresh.