Factory Data Reset: Sign In and Complete the Reset

A factory data reset erases personal data, accounts, apps, and customized settings from a device, then returns the software to its original setup state. To reset factory data safely, back up important information first, complete the reset from the device settings, and sign in with the account previously connected to the device.

What does a factory data reset erase?

A factory data reset is a software process that removes information stored in the device’s internal memory and returns its settings to their default state. It is different from restarting the device, which turns the device off and on without deleting personal information.

A factory data reset commonly removes:

• Accounts added to the device
• Installed apps and their locally stored data
• Saved settings, preferences, and network details
• Photos, downloads, messages, and other files kept only in internal storage
• Saved sign-in sessions and screen-lock settings

Information already synchronized with an online account may remain available online. Files stored on removable media may also remain, but the exact result depends on the device and the reset options shown. Read every confirmation message before proceeding, especially if the screen offers a separate choice to erase removable storage or an electronic SIM.

What should you do before you reset factory data?

Before starting a factory data reset, make sure you can recover both your information and your account access. A reset normally cannot be undone after the device begins erasing its internal storage.

• Back up photos, documents, contacts, messages, and other important data using an available backup method.
• Confirm that recently changed information has finished synchronizing with the account.
• Write down the email address or username for the account currently connected to the device.
• Confirm the account password by signing in on another trusted device, if one is available.
• Make sure you can access the email account, phone number, authenticator, recovery codes, or trusted device used for identity checks.
• Save any app-specific files or information that are not included in the main device backup.
• Keep the device connected to reliable power so it does not shut down during the reset.
• Check whether work, school, parental-control, or device-management settings restrict resets.

If the device is being transferred to another person, follow the manufacturer’s official preparation instructions before resetting it. Removing an account in the wrong order can cause an account-verification prompt during setup.

How do you perform a factory data reset?

Menu names differ by device and software version, so use the reset option displayed in the device’s main settings rather than following unverified button combinations. The option may appear under a section labeled System, General Management, General, Transfer or Reset, Backup and Reset, or a similar name.

1. Open the device’s Settings menu.
2. Use the settings search box and enter “factory data reset” or “reset factory data” if the reset section is not easy to find.
3. Select the option that clearly says it erases all data or returns the device to factory settings. Do not select a network-only or settings-only reset if the goal is to erase the device completely.
4. Review the list of accounts, apps, files, and storage areas that will be affected.
5. Choose whether to erase any separately listed removable storage or electronic SIM only if that matches your intended result.
6. Select the command to continue with the factory data reset.
7. Enter the requested screen-lock code, account password, or other security information.
8. Read the final warning and confirm the reset.
9. Leave the device connected to power and wait for the initial setup screen. Do not force a restart while the reset is actively processing unless official support directs you to do so.

How do you sign back in after a factory data reset?

After a factory data reset finishes, the device should open its initial setup process. Complete the language, region, accessibility, and network prompts until an account sign-in screen appears.

1. Connect to a trusted network when setup asks for internet access.
2. Enter the email address or username for the account that was connected to the device before the reset if the device requests it.
3. Enter the current password, not an older password saved before the reset.
4. Complete any identity check using the recovery method shown on the screen.
5. Select an available backup when setup offers to restore information, or continue without restoring if no backup is needed.
6. Wait for account information to synchronize before deciding that contacts, files, or settings are missing.

If the account is not accepted, check spelling and confirm that the correct account type is being used. Do not create a new account merely to bypass a prompt asking for the account previously connected to the device.

What should you do if the factory data reset will not start or finish?

If a factory data reset does not start, the device may be waiting for a screen-lock code, an account password, sufficient power, or permission from a device administrator. Read the entire prompt and complete the requested check before trying again.

• No response: Close other screens, return to Settings, and reopen the reset menu. Restart the device normally if it is responsive, then try again.
• Password rejected: Confirm whether the prompt wants the device lock code or the online account password. These may be different.
• Reset option unavailable: Check for work, school, family, or administrator controls that may block changes.
• Reset appears stuck: Keep the device connected to power. Avoid interrupting an active erase unless the manufacturer’s official instructions say the device is no longer progressing.
• Setup asks for an old account: Use the account previously synchronized with the device and complete the displayed recovery process if the password is unknown.

How can you get help when the reset or sign-in fails?

If the reset fails repeatedly or account access is not restored, open {site} on another device and look for Support, Help, Account Recovery, or Contact Us. Use the official guided troubleshooting steps for the exact device model and software version.

Before contacting support, note the device model, the words shown in any error message, the stage where the reset stopped, and whether the account works on another device. Do not share a password, verification code, recovery code, or full payment-card number with anyone. If the device belongs to an employer or school, contact that organization’s administrator because managed-device restrictions may require its approval.