If you own a Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge, there may come a time when you need to reset the device to its factory settings. Whether you’re experiencing software issues, want to erase all personal data before selling or giving away your phone, or simply want to start fresh, performing a factory reset can solve many common problems.
In this article, we will guide you step by step on how to factory reset your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge. We’ll cover both the software and hardware methods, so you can choose the one that’s most suitable for your needs. So, let’s dive in and learn how to reset your device and get it back to its original state.
Inside This Article
- Why Factory Reset?
- How to Factory Reset a Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge
- Step 1: Backup your important data
- Step 2: Disable Factory Reset Protection
- Step 3: Access the Settings menu
- Step 4: Select Backup and Reset
- Step 5: Initiate the Factory Reset
- Step 6: Confirm the Reset
- Step 7: Wait for the process to complete
- Step 8: Set up your device again
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Why Factory Reset?
Factory resetting a Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge can be a useful solution in various situations. It allows you to restore your device to its original factory settings, erasing all the data and settings that you have accumulated over time. While this may sound counterintuitive, there are several reasons why performing a factory reset can be beneficial.
Firstly, a factory reset can help to resolve software issues. If you are experiencing frequent crashes, freezing, or other glitches on your Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge, a factory reset can help to eliminate these problems. It essentially removes any problematic applications or corrupted data that may be causing your device to malfunction.
Secondly, a factory reset can be useful when you plan to sell or give away your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge. Performing a factory reset ensures that all your personal data, including contacts, messages, photos, and accounts, are wiped clean from the device. This protects your privacy and prevents any unauthorized access to your sensitive information.
Additionally, if you are planning to switch to a new device or upgrade to a newer Samsung Galaxy model, performing a factory reset on your S7 or S7 Edge allows you to start with a clean slate. By erasing all your data and settings, you can set up your new device without any carryover from your previous device.
Lastly, a factory reset is sometimes recommended as a troubleshooting step for more complex issues that cannot be resolved through other methods. If you have tried other troubleshooting techniques, such as clearing caches or performing a software update, without success, a factory reset can be a last resort to fix persistent problems.
However, it’s important to note that performing a factory reset will delete all the data on your device, so it is crucial to back up any important information before proceeding. The next section will guide you through the process of factory resetting a Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge.
How to Factory Reset a Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge
If you are facing issues with your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge and have tried all troubleshooting methods without success, a factory reset might be the next step to resolve those problems. A factory reset will restore your device to its original factory settings, erasing all data and settings. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to perform a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge.
Step 1: Backup your important data
Before proceeding with a factory reset, it is crucial to back up any important data on your device. This includes photos, videos, contacts, messages, and any other files you want to keep. You can use the built-in backup feature provided by Samsung, or utilize third-party applications for a more comprehensive backup.
Step 2: Disable Factory Reset Protection
If you have enabled Factory Reset Protection (FRP) on your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge, it is recommended to disable it before performing a factory reset. FRP is a security feature that prevents unauthorized users from accessing your device after a factory reset.
Step 3: Access the Settings menu
To initiate the factory reset process, go to the Settings menu on your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge. You can access the Settings menu by tapping on the gear icon in the app drawer or by swiping down from the top of the screen and selecting the gear icon in the notification panel.
Step 4: Select Backup and Reset
Within the Settings menu, scroll down and locate the “Backup and Reset” option. Tap on it to proceed.
Step 5: Initiate the Factory Reset
Under the “Backup and Reset” menu, you will find the option to perform a factory reset. It may be labeled as “Factory Data Reset” or similar. Tap on this option to begin the process.
Step 6: Confirm the Reset
Before proceeding, your device will display a warning message informing you that all data will be erased. Read through the warning message carefully and make sure you have backed up all important data. Once you are ready, tap on the “Reset device” or “Reset phone” button to confirm the factory reset.
Step 7: Wait for the process to complete
After confirming the factory reset, your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge will begin the reset process. The device will restart and proceed with erasing all data and restoring the original factory settings. This process may take a few minutes, so be patient and do not interrupt it.
Step 8: Set up your device again
Once the factory reset process is complete, your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge will reboot. You will be prompted to go through the initial setup steps, such as selecting your preferred language, connecting to a Wi-Fi network, and signing in to your Google account. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your device again.
By following these steps, you can perform a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge, restoring it to its original factory settings. Remember to back up your important data before proceeding and disable Factory Reset Protection if enabled. A factory reset can help resolve software issues or prepare your device for resale or trade-in.
Step 1: Backup your important data
Before proceeding with a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge, it’s crucial to backup any important data you have on your device. By doing so, you can ensure that your photos, videos, contacts, and other important files are safely stored and can be easily restored later.
There are several methods you can use to backup your data:
- Cloud Backup: One of the easiest ways to backup your data is by using cloud storage services such as Google Drive or Dropbox. These services allow you to automatically back up your files to the cloud, ensuring that they will be accessible even if your phone is lost or damaged.
- External Storage: Another option is to transfer your files to an external storage device, such as an SD card or a USB drive. Simply connect the storage device to your phone and copy the files you want to backup.
- Computer Backup: If you prefer to have your data stored locally, you can connect your phone to a computer using a USB cable and transfer the files to your computer’s hard drive. This method provides an extra layer of security as your files will be stored offline.
It’s important to ensure that you have successfully backed up all the data you want to save before proceeding to the next steps. Double-check that your backups are complete and accessible to avoid any potential data loss during the factory reset process.
Step 2: Disable Factory Reset Protection
Factory Reset Protection (FRP) is a security feature on Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge devices that helps prevent unauthorized factory reset of your device. Before proceeding with a factory reset, you need to disable this feature to ensure a smooth reset process.
To disable Factory Reset Protection, follow these steps:
1. On your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge, go to the “Settings” app. You can find the app icon in the app drawer or on your home screen.
2. Scroll down and tap on “Lock screen and security.”
3. Scroll further and look for “Find My Mobile” or “Find My Device” option. Tap on it.
4. If you have not signed in with your Samsung account, you will be prompted to sign in. Enter your account details and tap “Sign in.”
5. After signing in, scroll down and find “Remote Controls” or “Remote Management.” Tap on it.
6. Now, you need to disable the switch next to “Remote controls” or “Remote Management.” Tap on the switch to toggle it off.
7. A warning message will appear, informing you that disabling this feature may make your device less secure. Confirm by tapping on “Deactivate.”
8. You have successfully disabled Factory Reset Protection on your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge. You can now proceed with the factory reset process without any hindrance.
Keep in mind that once you disable FRP, anyone can perform a factory reset on your device without entering your Google account credentials. Make sure you trust the person before granting them access to your device.
Step 3: Access the Settings menu
Once you have successfully backed up your data and disabled Factory Reset Protection, it’s time to access the Settings menu on your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge. The Settings menu is where you can find all the customization options and configurations for your device.
To access the Settings menu, start by unlocking your phone and navigating to the home screen. From there, swipe down from the top of the screen to open the notification panel. Look for the gear-shaped icon in the top right corner and tap on it. This will open the Settings menu.
Alternatively, you can also access the Settings menu by tapping on the Apps icon on your home screen. The Apps icon is usually located at the bottom of the screen in the middle and looks like a grid of small squares. Once you tap on it, you’ll see a list of all the apps installed on your phone. Scroll through the apps until you find the Settings app and tap on it.
Once you’re in the Settings menu, you’ll see a variety of different options and settings that you can customize. These options may vary depending on the version of Android running on your device. Take your time to explore the different sections of the Settings menu and familiarize yourself with the various options available.
It’s important to note that accessing the Settings menu is a crucial step in the factory reset process, as it allows you to navigate to the necessary options to initiate the reset. Make sure to follow the steps carefully to avoid any accidental changes to your device’s settings.
Step 4: Select Backup and Reset
Once you have accessed the settings menu of your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge, the next step is to select the “Backup and Reset” option. This option is crucial as it allows you to create a backup of your important data before initiating the factory reset.
When you select the “Backup and Reset” option, you will be presented with a variety of choices. It is recommended to carefully review these choices and select the ones that meet your specific needs.
One of the options you will find in the “Backup and Reset” menu is the ability to back up your data to an external storage device or to the cloud. This is a crucial step, as it ensures that your important files, photos, and contacts are safely stored and can be restored after the factory reset.
Additionally, in the “Backup and Reset” menu, you may also find the option to back up your application data. Enabling this option allows you to save your app settings, login credentials, and other app-related data, making it easier for you to restore your apps and have them in the same state as before the factory reset.
Remember to carefully review all the available options in the “Backup and Reset” menu and select the ones that are most relevant to you. By taking the time to create a thorough backup, you ensure that you won’t lose any precious data during the factory reset process.
Step 5: Initiate the Factory Reset
Once you have reached the “Backup and Reset” menu, it’s time to initiate the factory reset process. This step will erase all data and settings on your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge, so make sure you have backed up any important information.
To initiate the factory reset, you will find an option labeled “Factory Data Reset” or “Reset Phone.” Tap on this option to proceed.
A warning message will appear, informing you that all data will be erased, and your device will be restored to its original factory settings. Take a moment to read through the message and ensure that you are comfortable proceeding with the reset.
Once you are ready to proceed, tap on the “Reset Phone” or “Reset Device” button. Your phone may prompt you to enter your PIN, password, or pattern as a security measure before initiating the reset. Enter the necessary information to proceed.
After confirming your choice to initiate the factory reset, your phone will begin the process. This may take a few minutes, so be patient and refrain from interrupting the process.
During the reset process, your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge may display a progress bar or an animated icon indicating that the reset is in progress. Do not panic if your device appears to be stuck or frozen during this time; this is normal, and the reset process will continue.
It’s important to note that once the factory reset process is complete, all data, apps, settings, and accounts on your phone will be erased. Ensure that you have a backup of any important data before proceeding.
After the factory reset is finished, your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge will reboot and will be restored to its original factory settings. You can then proceed to set up your device again, following the on-screen instructions.
Remember, initiating a factory reset should be done with caution, as it erases all data on your phone. Make sure to back up any important information, such as contacts, photos, and documents, before proceeding with the reset.
Step 6: Confirm the Reset
Once you have reached this step, you are just one tap away from initiating the factory reset process on your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge. At this point, you will be prompted to confirm your decision to proceed with the reset. It is crucial to understand that this action will erase all the data and settings on your device, so make sure you have backed up everything important beforehand.
To confirm the reset, simply tap on the “Reset Phone” or “Erase Everything” button. The exact wording may vary slightly depending on your device’s software version. Once you tap on this button, your phone will start the process of wiping all the data and returning to its factory settings.
Please be patient and avoid interrupting the process to prevent any potential issues. The duration of the reset process can vary depending on the amount of data on your device. It may take a few minutes for the reset to complete, so make sure you have sufficient battery life or keep your device connected to a power source.
Confirming the reset is a critical step in restoring your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge to its original state. It is important to double-check that you have backed up all essential data and have taken note of any important settings or configurations before proceeding.
Step 7: Wait for the process to complete
After initiating the factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge, you will need to exercise patience and allow the device to complete the process. This step is crucial, as interrupting the reset could potentially cause issues or data loss.
Typically, the time required to complete the factory reset can vary depending on factors such as the device’s storage capacity and the amount of data being erased. On average, the process can take anywhere from a few minutes to half an hour.
During this time, you may notice that your device restarts multiple times. This is normal and part of the reset process. The system is wiping the internal storage, removing all data, and restoring the device to its factory settings.
It is important not to tamper with the device or interrupt the reset process. Avoid pressing any buttons or engaging in any activity that could disrupt the reset. Simply let the device do its work and allow it to complete the factory reset on its own.
While waiting, you can take this opportunity to gather any necessary information or files that you may need to set up your device again after the reset is complete. This includes login credentials for your Google account, any app-specific settings, and important documents or media files that were not backed up.
Once the reset process is finished, your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge will boot up and present you with the initial setup screen. At this point, you can start the device configuration process and personalize your phone according to your preferences.
It is important to note that after a factory reset, all data on your device will be erased, including apps, photos, videos, contacts, and settings. Make sure you have performed a backup of your important data and files before proceeding with the reset.
FAQs
Q: Is it normal for the device to restart multiple times during the reset process?
A: Yes, it is normal. The device restarts several times as part of the factory reset process, so there’s no need to worry.
Q: How long does it typically take for the factory reset to complete?
A: The time can vary depending on the device’s storage capacity and the amount of data being erased. On average, it takes a few minutes to half an hour.
Q: Can I interrupt the factory reset process?
A: It is important not to interrupt the factory reset process. Let the device complete the reset on its own to avoid any potential issues or data loss.
Step 8: Set up your device again
Once the factory reset process is complete, you will need to set up your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge again. Follow these steps to get your device up and running:
1. Select your desired language: Choose the language that you want your device to display.
2. Connect to a Wi-Fi network: Select a Wi-Fi network and enter the password if required. This will allow your device to connect to the internet and download any necessary updates.
3. Sign in to your Google account: If you have a Google account, enter your email address and password to sign in. This will restore your Google settings and previously installed apps.
4. Agree to the terms and conditions: Read and accept the terms and conditions presented on the screen.
5. Choose your preferences: Set your desired options for date and time, location settings, and other preferences.
6. Restore your apps and data: During the setup process, you will have the option to restore your apps and data from a previous backup. If you have backed up your device before the factory reset, you can select the backup file and restore your data.
7. Customize your home screen: You can personalize your home screen by adding widgets, rearranging apps, and setting up shortcuts to your favorite apps.
8. Install necessary updates: After setting up your device, it is recommended to check for and install any available system updates. This will ensure that your device is running the latest software version with all the security patches and improvements.
9. Download and install your favorite apps: Visit the Google Play Store to download and install the apps that you use regularly. You can also install any apps you may have bought or downloaded previously.
10. Enjoy your refreshed device: Once you have completed the setup process, you can start using your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge again, with all your settings and personalization choices in place.
Setting up your device after a factory reset may take some time, but it is essential to ensure that your device is optimized for your needs and preferences. Take the opportunity to customize your device and make it truly yours.
Conclusion
In conclusion, performing a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge can be a beneficial solution when encountering issues with your device. Whether you are experiencing software glitches, slow performance, or simply want to start fresh, a factory reset can help restore your phone to its original state.
Remember to back up your important data before initiating a factory reset, as the process will erase all files and settings on your device. Follow the step-by-step guide outlined in this article to ensure a smooth and successful reset. By taking the time to understand the process and following the necessary precautions, you can confidently perform a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge.
Once your device is reset, you will be able to enjoy a clean and optimized phone, free from any previous issues or clutter. Take advantage of this opportunity to start fresh and customize your device to your liking. Whether you are troubleshooting or simply seeking a fresh start, a factory reset is a powerful tool that can enhance your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge experience.
FAQs
1. Why should I factory reset my Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge?
Factory resetting your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge can help resolve various issues such as software glitches, performance slowdowns, random crashes, or if you’re planning to sell or give away your device. It is also a recommended troubleshooting step for resolving persistent problems.
2. How do I factory reset my Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge?
To factory reset your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge, follow these steps:
- Go to the Settings app on your device.
- Scroll down and tap on “General management”.
- Select “Reset” from the available options.
- Choose “Factory data reset”.
- Read the warning and tap on “Reset” to confirm.
- Enter your device PIN or password if prompted.
- Finally, tap on “Delete all” to start the factory reset process.
3. Will I lose all my data if I perform a factory reset on my Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge?
Yes, a factory reset will erase all data and settings on your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge. Therefore, it is essential to back up your important data, such as contacts, photos, videos, and documents, before proceeding with the factory reset to avoid permanent data loss.
4. How long does it take to complete a factory reset on a Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge?
The time it takes to complete a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge depends on the amount of data on your device. Generally, the process takes around 10-15 minutes, but it may take longer if you have a large number of files or apps installed.
5. Do I need to remove my SIM card and SD card before performing a factory reset on my Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge?
It is not necessary to remove your SIM card or SD card before performing a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge. However, it is always a good practice to back up the data on these cards separately, as the factory reset process will erase all data from the internal storage of your device.
