The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is an advanced smartphone packed with features designed to enhance your everyday experience. However, there may come a time when you feel your device is running sluggishly, or you might want to prepare it for sale or a new owner. In those instances, performing a factory reset can be the most effective solution. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of factory resetting your Galaxy S21 5G.
Understanding Factory Reset
A factory reset, also known as a hard reset or master reset, restores your device to its original system state. This means that all data stored on your device will be removed, including downloaded apps, photos, files, and settings, bringing the device back to its “out-of-the-box” condition. It’s important to consider when you might need a factory reset.
Reasons to Perform a Factory Reset
- Device Performance Issues: If your phone is lagging, frequently crashing, or experiencing significant slowdowns.
- Preparing for Sale: When you’re ready to sell or give away your phone, it’s crucial to remove all personal data.
What to Consider Before Resetting
Before you initiate the factory reset, keep the following points in mind:
- Backup Your Data: Since a factory reset will erase all data, ensure you back up important files, contacts, photos, and app data.
- Battery Level: Ensure that your Galaxy S21 is charged to at least 50% to prevent any interruptions during the reset process.
- Google Account Removal: If you plan to sell your phone, removing your Google account will help avoid issues like the Factory Reset Protection feature, which locks the device to your Google account.
Preparation Steps for Factory Reset
Before you jump into the factory reset process, it’s essential to prepare your device adequately. Here are the steps:
Backing Up Your Data
There are several options for backing up your data on the Galaxy S21:
- Samsung Cloud: Go to Settings > Accounts and backup > Samsung Cloud and follow the prompts.
- Google Drive: Go to Settings > Accounts and backup > Backup and restore. Make sure “Back up my data” is enabled.
- External Storage: Transfer files manually to an SD card or computer.
Removing Your Google Account
To remove your Google Account:
1. Open Settings.
2. Tap on “Accounts and backup”.
3. Select “Accounts”, then tap on your Google Account.
4. Tap on “Remove account”.
This step is particularly important if you are giving your device away, as it will prevent the new owner from being locked out of the device after the reset.
How to Factory Reset Galaxy S21 5G
Now that you have prepared your device and backed up your data, you are ready to perform the factory reset. There are multiple methods for executing this operation on your Galaxy S21. Here are two straightforward methods you can use:
Method 1: Factory Reset via Settings
This method is the simplest approach and can be done in just a few taps.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Open Settings: Locate and tap the Settings app on your home screen or in the app drawer.
- Select General Management: Scroll down and find the “General management” option.
- Tap on Reset: In the General Management menu, you will find various reset options.
- Choose Factory Data Reset: Select “Factory data reset” to access the reset options.
- Review Your Data: You will see a summary of information that will be erased. Make sure to read through carefully.
- Confirm the Reset: Scroll down and tap on the “Reset” button. You might need to enter your password, PIN, or pattern for security.
- Complete the Process: Finally, tap on “Delete all” to confirm the factory reset. Your phone will restart, and the reset process will begin.
Method 2: Factory Reset via Recovery Mode
If your device is unresponsive or you prefer using hardware buttons for the reset, this method serves as a perfect alternative.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Power Off Your Device: Completely turn off your Galaxy S21.
- Enter Recovery Mode: Press and hold the Volume Up button and the Power button simultaneously until the Samsung logo appears, then release both buttons.
- Navigate Recovery Menu: Use the Volume buttons to navigate and highlight “Wipe data/factory reset”.
- Select Action: Press the Power button to select the highlighted option.
- Confirm the Reset: Highlight “Yes” and press the Power button again.
- Reboot Your Device: Once the reset is complete, you’ll return to the Recovery menu. Highlight “Reboot system now” and press the Power button.
Post-Reset Actions
After the factory reset is complete, your Galaxy S21 will restart and prompt you to set it up just like a new phone. Here’s what to do next:
Initial Setup Process
- Select Language and Region: Choose your preferred language and tap “Next”.
- Connect to Wi-Fi: Connect to a Wi-Fi network to access the internet.
- Sign in to Your Google Account: If you want to restore previous backups, you can sign into your Google account.
- Set Up Security Options: Configure security settings such as a pattern, PIN, or password for added protection.
Restoring Your Data
Once you have completed the setup, you can restore data from your backups. Follow the prompts on the screen to recover your apps, contacts, and files.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While factory resetting your Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is generally straightforward, you may run into some common issues. Here’s how to handle a few of them:
Device Won’t Respond
If your device doesn’t respond during the reset process, try entering Recovery Mode again using the hardware buttons as mentioned earlier.
Cannot Access Google Account
If you forgot your Google account password, visit the Google Account Recovery page from another device and follow every provided step.
Slow Performance After Reset
If your device continues to lag even after resetting, ensure that your software is updated. Check for updates in Settings > Software update.
Conclusion
Performing a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is an incredibly useful skill that can help rejuvenate your device or facilitate error-free transitions to new ownership. By following the steps discussed in this guide, you can easily navigate the process, ensuring your personal information is secured and your device is running optimally. Always remember to back up your important data before taking the plunge into a factory reset. With a clean slate, your Galaxy S21 5G is ready to serve you once again with renewed vigor.
What is a factory reset on the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G?
A factory reset, also known as a hard reset, erases all data and settings on your Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, returning the device to its original state as it was when first purchased. This process removes all personal information, apps, and settings, ensuring that the device is clean and ready for a new user or a fresh start.
Heralded as a troubleshooting measure, a factory reset can resolve various performance issues, software glitches, or if the device is behaving erratically. It is an effective way to clear up storage space and eliminate unwanted apps and files that may be causing your device to slow down.
How do I perform a factory reset on my Samsung Galaxy S21 5G?
To perform a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, begin by navigating to the “Settings” app on your device. Scroll down and select “General management,” then tap on “Reset.” You will see the option labeled “Factory data reset,” which you should select.
Once you select “Factory data reset,” the device will prompt you to review what will be erased. After confirming that you want to proceed, tap on “Reset” and, if prompted, enter your device’s PIN or password. Finally, select “Delete all” to initiate the process, and your Galaxy S21 will reset to factory settings.
Will a factory reset delete all my data on the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G?
Yes, a factory reset will delete all data on your Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, including photos, apps, contacts, and any other personal files stored on the device’s internal memory. Therefore, it is crucial to back up your data before performing a factory reset to avoid permanent loss of important information.
You can back up your data using Samsung Cloud, Google Drive, or other cloud services. Additionally, you could connect your device to a computer and transfer files manually. Ensure you save any necessary details, as recovering data after a factory reset can be difficult or impossible.
Does a factory reset fix software issues on my Galaxy S21 5G?
A factory reset can resolve several software issues, particularly those related to performance, crashes, or apps not functioning correctly. By resetting the device, you eliminate all software inconsistencies and return the operating system to its default state. This can greatly enhance the device’s speed and stability.
However, if the issues persist after a factory reset, they may be due to hardware problems rather than software glitches. In such cases, contacting Samsung support or visiting a service center for further diagnosis may be necessary.
Can I reset my Samsung Galaxy S21 5G remotely?
Yes, you can reset your Samsung Galaxy S21 5G remotely using the “Find My Mobile” service provided by Samsung. This feature allows you to manage your device even if it’s lost or stolen. To use this option, you must have previously set up your Samsung account and enabled remote access.
To initiate a remote factory reset, log into your Samsung account on a computer or another device, access the “Find My Mobile” service, and select your Galaxy S21 from the devices list. You’ll then find the option to erase data remotely, which will execute a factory reset on your phone.
What should I do if I forget my Samsung account password when trying to reset?
If you forget your Samsung account password when attempting a factory reset, you can recover or reset your password by going to the Samsung account login page. There you will find an option labeled “Forgot your password?” which you can click to initiate the recovery process.
Follow the prompts to receive a verification code via email or SMS, which will allow you to create a new password. Once you have reset your password, you can log in again and proceed with the factory reset on your Galaxy S21 5G without issues.
How long does it take to complete a factory reset on the Galaxy S21 5G?
The duration of the factory reset process on the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G can vary, but it generally takes about 5 to 10 minutes to complete. After you initiate the reset, the device will go through a series of steps to wipe the data and reset the system settings.
Once the reset is finished, your device will reboot and present you with the initial setup screen as if it were brand new. The entire process may take a little longer based on the amount of data stored on the device and how fast it processes the reset operation.
Is there a way to recover data after a factory reset on my Galaxy S21 5G?
Unfortunately, recovering data after a factory reset is challenging. Once the reset is completed, the erased data cannot be accessed through traditional means. Therefore, it is always recommended to back up your data prior to performing a factory reset to ensure you don’t lose important information.
If you have backed up your data using services like Samsung Cloud, Google Drive, or others, you can restore your files once the factory reset is complete. However, if you didn’t perform a backup, the chances of recovering lost data are minimal, and specialized data recovery services could be contacted, but success is not guaranteed.