Looking to give your Samsung tablet a fresh start? Whether you’re troubleshooting an issue or just looking to wipe the slate clean, knowing how to factory reset your device can be incredibly useful. In this article, you’ll discover step-by-step instructions on how to reset a Samsung tablet, ensuring your device is as good as new. With our easy-to-follow guide, you’ll have your tablet back to its factory settings in no time!
Preparation
Before you proceed with a factory reset on your Samsung tablet, there are a couple of steps you need to take to ensure a smooth process.
Backup your data
First and foremost, it is crucial to back up all your important data before you initiate a factory reset. This way, you can safeguard your photos, documents, contacts, and any other files you don’t want to lose. You can use various methods to back up your data, such as utilizing cloud storage services like Google Drive or Samsung Cloud, transferring files to a computer, or using a USB drive.
Charge your tablet
To avoid any interruptions during the factory reset process, it’s essential to ensure that your tablet has sufficient charge. Make sure to plug it into a power source and allow it to charge fully. This way, you won’t have to worry about the battery dying midway through the reset, which could potentially cause problems.
Factory Reset through Settings
If you have access to your tablet’s Settings menu and it is in proper working condition, you can initiate a factory reset through the settings.
Access the Settings menu
Start by opening the Settings app on your Samsung tablet. You can typically find this app in your app drawer or by swiping down from the top of your screen and selecting the gear icon.
Select the ‘Backup and reset’ option
Once you’re in the Settings menu, scroll down and look for the option labeled “Backup and reset.” Tap on it to proceed.
Choose ‘Factory data reset’
Under the “Backup and reset” menu, you’ll find the option to perform a factory reset. It may be labeled as “Factory data reset” or something similar. Select this option to proceed.
Confirm the reset
After selecting the factory reset option, your tablet will prompt you to confirm your decision. It’s important to note that a factory reset will erase all data on your tablet, so make sure you’ve backed up everything you need. To confirm the reset, tap on the appropriate button or follow the on-screen instructions.
Wait for the process to complete
Once you’ve confirmed the factory reset, your tablet will begin the process. It may take a few minutes for the reset to complete, so be patient and avoid interrupting the process. Your tablet will restart, and when it comes back on, it will be restored to its original factory settings.
Factory Reset through Recovery Mode
If you encounter issues accessing the settings menu on your Samsung tablet or if it’s unresponsive, you can perform a factory reset through Recovery Mode.
Turn off the tablet
To initiate the factory reset through Recovery Mode, start by turning off your tablet. Press and hold the power button until the shutdown options appear, then select “Power off” or a similar option to shut it down completely.
Enter Recovery Mode
Once your tablet is powered off, you’ll need to enter Recovery Mode. The key combination to access Recovery Mode may vary depending on your Samsung tablet model. Common combinations include holding the volume up button and power button simultaneously or holding the home button, volume up button, and power button simultaneously. Consult your tablet’s user manual or search the internet for the specific key combination for your device.
Navigate the menu
Once you successfully enter Recovery Mode, use the volume up and volume down buttons to navigate through the menu options. Look for the option labeled “Factory Reset” or “Wipe data/factory reset.” Use the power button to select this option.
Confirm the reset
After selecting the factory reset option, your tablet will display a confirmation prompt. Take a moment to double-check that you’re okay with erasing all data before proceeding. Confirm the reset by selecting the appropriate option, usually labeled “Yes” or “Confirm.”
Wait for the process to complete
Once you confirm the factory reset, your tablet will begin the process. The reset may take some time, and your tablet may display a progress indicator or logo. Avoid interrupting the process and allow it to complete.
Factory Reset using Samsung Smart Switch
If you prefer a more streamlined method to perform a factory reset, you can utilize Samsung Smart Switch, a software developed by Samsung.
Install Samsung Smart Switch on your PC
To begin, you’ll need to install Samsung Smart Switch on your computer. Visit Samsung’s official website and download the software for your PC’s operating system. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
Connect your tablet to the PC
Once Smart Switch is installed, use a USB cable to connect your Samsung tablet to your PC. Ensure that the cable is in good condition and the connection is secure.
Launch Smart Switch and select ‘More’
Open Samsung Smart Switch on your computer. Once the software detects your tablet, it may prompt you to grant permission for access. Follow the on-screen instructions and select “More” from the main menu.
Choose ‘Emergency software recovery and initialization’
Within the “More” menu, you’ll find the option labeled “Emergency software recovery and initialization” or something similar. Select this option to proceed.
Follow the on-screen instructions
Samsung Smart Switch will guide you through the factory reset process. Carefully follow the on-screen instructions and prompts to initiate the reset. Make sure to read any warnings or confirmations thoroughly before proceeding.
Factory Reset using Find My Mobile
If your Samsung tablet is lost or stolen and you have a Samsung account, you can use the Find My Mobile service to remotely perform a factory reset.
Ensure you have a Samsung account
Before utilizing Find My Mobile, it’s essential to have a Samsung account and have it set up on your tablet. If you haven’t created a Samsung account yet, you can do so by visiting Samsung’s official website and following the registration process.
Visit the Find My Mobile website
Once you have a Samsung account, access a web browser on any device (such as a computer or smartphone) and visit the Find My Mobile website. Sign in using your Samsung account credentials.
Sign in with your Samsung account
After reaching the Find My Mobile website, sign in using the same Samsung account associated with your tablet. Ensure that you use the correct email address and password.
Select your tablet from the list
After signing in, Find My Mobile will display a list of devices associated with your Samsung account. Locate and select your tablet from the available options.
Click ‘More’ and choose ‘Erase data’
Once you’ve selected your tablet, Find My Mobile will display various actions you can perform remotely. Click on “More” and choose the option to “Erase data” or “Factory reset.” Follow any additional prompts or instructions provided before proceeding.
Factory Reset using Hard Reset
In some cases, when other methods are not viable, you can perform a hard reset on your Samsung tablet. This method involves a key combination and should be used with caution.
Turn off the tablet
To initiate a hard reset, start by turning off your tablet. Locate the power button and press it until the shutdown options appear. Choose the option to power off entirely.
Press and hold specific key combination
To enter the hard reset mode, you’ll need to press and hold a specific combination of buttons on your tablet. The exact key combination may vary depending on your Samsung tablet model. Refer to your tablet’s user manual or search for the specific combination for your device online.
Release the keys when the logo appears
Once you’ve successfully pressed the right combination of buttons, your tablet will display the Samsung logo or another relevant screen. Release the buttons at this point to proceed.
Navigate to ‘Wipe data/factory reset’
Using the volume up and down buttons to navigate through the menu options, look for the one labeled “Wipe data/factory reset.” Use the power button to select this option.
Confirm the reset
After selecting the factory reset option, your tablet will display a confirmation prompt. Take a moment to ensure that this is the action you want to perform, as a hard reset will erase all data. Confirm the reset by selecting the appropriate option, usually labeled “Yes” or “Confirm.”
Wait for the process to complete
Once you confirm the factory reset, your tablet will begin the process. The reset may take some time, and your tablet may display a progress indicator or logo. Allow it to complete without interruption.
Post-Reset Steps
Once the factory reset process is complete, you’ll need to set up your Samsung tablet as if it were brand new.
Set up your tablet
Turn on your tablet and follow the initial setup instructions. This typically involves selecting your language, connecting to a Wi-Fi network, and agreeing to the terms and conditions. Follow the on-screen prompts to proceed through the setup process.
Restore your data from backup
After setting up your tablet, it’s time to restore your data from the backup you made earlier. Depending on the method you used to back up your data, there are different steps to follow. If you used cloud storage services like Google Drive or Samsung Cloud, sign in to your account and download your files. If you transferred your files to a computer or USB drive, connect your tablet and transfer the files back onto it. Follow the instructions specific to your chosen backup method to ensure a successful data restoration.
By following these comprehensive steps, you can factory reset your Samsung tablet using various methods depending on your specific situation. Remember to back up your data, choose the appropriate method, and follow the instructions carefully. With a factory reset, you can restore your tablet to its original factory settings and start fresh.
