How To Factory Reset an Android Phone

Overview

You can remove data from your Android phone or tablet by resetting it to factory settings. Resetting this way is also called "formatting" or performing a "hard reset." The way to do this differs a bit from device to device.

If you can't open your device's Settings app, you can try factory resetting your Android device using its power and volume buttons. We recommend seeing your manufacturer's support site for device-specific instructions.

Warning: Following this process will erase all the data from your device's internal storage, including personal files like photos. Be sure to back up all your phone's data beforehand.

Instructions

Step 1. 

Tap System and then Advanced and then Reset options.

  • If you don't see "Advanced," tap Reset options.

Image of System menu in the Android Settings application

Step 2.

Tap Erase all data (factory reset) and then Reset phone or Reset tablet. If needed, enter your PIN, pattern, or password.

Image of the reset options available

 

Step 3.

To erase all data from your device's internal storage, tap Erase everything.

Step 4.

When your device has finished erasing, pick the option to restart.

Step 5.

Set up your device and restore your backed-up data.

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