What Is Factory Reset & How to Factory Reset [A Comprehensive Introduction]

What Is Factory Reset

A factory reset restores the device's software to its state when it comes out from the factory. Hence, it's given the term "factory reset". It is also called master reset or hard reset.

With a factory reset, you can wipe out the device completely. It erases all data, settings, content, etc., on the device. The factory reset option is often chosen when there is a significant issue with the device. One can opt for the factory reset in various ways, depending on the device.

What Can Factory Reset Do

A factory reset works diligently to remove everything from a particular device. It restores the device to its condition when users first receive it. These include removing programs, files, and apps that have been created, transferred, and installed.

Are you wondering why a factory reset is necessary? If you are facing severe performance issues or nothing solves the problem, a factory reset does the trick. It is also a desirable option when you want to sell or rent the device to someone else.

Factory Reset Android, iOS, macOS, Windows

You can easily reset the factory reset on any device. Here are the steps that will help you factory reset Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows.

Factory Reset Android:

Step 1. Go to the Settings app on your Android phone.

Step 2. Go to System > Reset Options

Step 3. From here, select Factory Data Reset or Erase all data.

Here you will find the various options, click on the one you want and follow the on-screen instructions.

Note: The option to factory reset on Android depends on OEM to OEM. If you cannot find it quickly, search for factory reset in the Settings search, which should reveal the option.

Factory Reset iOS:

If you want to reset iPhone without losing data, remember to create a backup.

Step 1. Tap on the General Settings app on your iPhone.

Step 2. Tap on Transfer or Reset iPhone settings.

Step 3. Tap the Reset option and follow the on-screen instructions to factory reset your iPhone.

Factory Reset macOS:

If your Mac is running macOS Monterey or later versions, you can factory reset macOS with Mac Erase Assistant.

Step 1. Click on the Apple menu. A drop-down will appear, and select System Settings from the menu.

Step 2. Click on the General option from the left-hand sidebar and select the Transfer or Reset option from the right-hand settings.

Step 3. Click on Erase All Content and Settings option from the next window. Follow the on-screen instructions to factory reset on Mac.

Factory Reset Windows:

Step 1. Open Windows Settings (Win + I).

Step 2. Go to System > Recovery.

Step 3. Click on Reset this PC, decide if you want to keep personal files, and then follow the instructions.

Factory Reset Pros and Cons

There are multiple pros and cons of choosing a factory reset. Let's take a look:

Pros	Cons
Aids in resolving performance-related issues of the device.	It only removes data from the internal memory. The external devices remain unaffected.
Particularly useful when you don't want to share your data with others (in case of a change of ownership).	There might be a loss of essential and relevant data.
Assists in the personalization of the system quickly.	Doing it frequently may impact the RAM and ROM.
Resolves problems quickly.	Takes a long time.

Will Factory Reset Erase Everything

Does a factory reset delete everything? Yes, a factory reset will erase everything. If you haven't made a data backup, you won't be able to restore them. Factory resets erase all the data present in a device. In extreme cases, you can opt for a professional data recovery tool for help.

Summary

Factory Reset is a feature that helps you in two places. One where you have many issues on your device, and factory reset will take less time to fix the issues. Second, when you are handing over your device to someone else. It will ensure no one can extract data from your device.