How to Factory Reset Samsung Galaxy Tablet or Phone

by Aria Ford

Updated on 2025-04-08

5min read

A factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy tablet or phone is a powerful way to wipe all personal data, settings, and apps—restoring the device to its original, out-of-the-box condition. It’s an effective fix for issues like slow performance, persistent glitches, or a forgotten password.

Whether you’re troubleshooting software problems or preparing your device for resale, performing a factory reset offers a simple and reliable solution. Just be sure to back up your important files first, as the reset will permanently erase everything on the device.

In this blog, we’ll guide you step-by-step through how to factory reset your Samsung Galaxy tablet or phone—including the latest Samsung Galaxy A32—so you can complete the process confidently and safely.

Part 1. Backup Before Factory Reset Samsung Galaxy (Recommended)

Before executing a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy device, it’s crucial to save your data to make sure that no important information is lost throughout the procedure. There are several methods to secure your data –

Option 1. Samsung Cloud

To ensure your data is backed up with Samsung Cloud, navigate to Settings > Cloud and accounts > Samsung Cloud. From that point, you can select the option to back up your information, such as apps, contacts, images, and more. This enables you to retrieve all items on your device at a later time.

backed up with Samsung Cloud | how to factory reset Samsung Galaxy tablet

Option 2. Google Backup

You can additionally access Google’s backup service by going to Settings > Google > Back up now. From this point, you can choose to back up your data, encompassing app data, call logs, contacts, and device settings, guaranteeing an easy restoration on your new or reset device.

Back up now | how to factory reset Samsung Galaxy tablet

Option 3. Local Backup

An alternative is to move your files to an external source like a PC or external drive. Just link your device to your computer or insert an SD card, then transfer your essential files, such as photos, documents, and videos, for safekeeping.

Part 2. Factory Reset Samsung Galaxy Phone/Tablet via Settings [Official]

Carrying out a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy smartphone or tablet will delete all personal data. Below are the steps to perform a factory reset Samsung Galaxy phone/tablet via settings.

Step 1: Go to and launch the Settings application on your device. Scroll down and select “General management”.

Step 2: Press “Reset” > “Factory data reset”.

Factory data reset | how to factory reset Samsung Galaxy tablet

Step 3: Examine the details given regarding the data that is set to be deleted. Click on “Reset”.

Step 4: Press “Delete all” to confirm. If asked, enter your PIN/password and Samsung account details to continue.

Step 5: Your device will reboot and initiate the factory reset procedure. Upon finishing, it will start up to the initial configuration screen.

Part 3. How to Factory Reset Samsung Galaxy Without Password

Best Solution: Use Passixer Android Unlocker

Forgetting your password can be frustrating, especially when you need urgent access to your Samsung Galaxy device. While a factory reset can restore access, it typically requires a password. If you’re locked out, the best solution is Passixer Android Unlocker.

This tool helps you bypass the lock screen and reset your device without needing a password. Whether you’ve forgotten your password, purchased a second-hand locked phone, or are dealing with an FRP lock, Passixer Android Unlocker provides a quick and effective way to regain control of your device.

Key features:

  1. Enables the removal of password, PIN, pattern, fingerprint, and face unlock.
  2. Effortlessly eliminates Google account verification without needing login details.
  3. Access older Samsung models without deleting personal information.
  4. Operates with Android 6.0 and newer, up to Android 15.
  5. Perfect for lost passwosrds, used locked gadgets, and FRP lock problems.

Reset Samsung Galaxy Tablet or Phone via Passixer Android Unlocker –

Step 1: On the Passixer’s main screen, select “Remove Screen Password” to continue unlocking your device.

Remove Screen Password | how to factory reset Samsung Galaxy tablet

Step 2: Choose Samsung or the appropriate brand from the available options to guarantee compatibility with your device.

Factory data reset | how to factory reset Samsung Galaxy tablet

Step 3: Connect your Samsung phone or tablet to your computer using a certified USB cable.

Connect your Samsung phone | how to factory reset Samsung Galaxy tablet

Step 4: Press “Remove Now” to start the unlocking procedure.

unlocking procedure | how to factory reset Samsung Galaxy tablet

Step 5: Adhere to the on-screen prompts to enable Recovery mode on your device. When you receive a notification on your phone, press “Next” to give the required permissions.

enable Recovery mode | how to factory reset Samsung Galaxy tablet

Step 6: Clear you phone setting and cache.

Clear you phone setting | how to factory reset Samsung Galaxy tablet

Step 8: Make sure your device is fully reset after entering Recovery Mode. Click Confirm to proceed.

Confirm to proceed | how to factory reset Samsung Galaxy tablet

Step 9. Passixer will begin removing the screen lock from your Android device. Once the screen lock removal is complete, Passixer will display Removed Successfully. You can now set up your unlocked Android phone and use it without restrictions.

screen lock from your Android device | how to factory reset Samsung Galaxy tablet

Part 4. Factory Reset Samsung Using Remote Services (If You Can’t Access Your Device)

If you’re unable to get into your Samsung device because of a forgotten password or system problems, you can still execute a factory reset using Samsung’s remote services. Here are 2 methods to factory reset your Samsung tablet or phone –

Method 1: Reset via Samsung SmartThings Find

If you can’t directly access your Samsung device, you can remotely execute a factory reset through Samsung’s SmartThings Find service. This approach is especially beneficial if your device has been lost, stolen, or is not working properly.

Step 1: Access the SmartThings Find website on your computer or another device. Log in with your Samsung Account information.

Step 2: After logging in, you will view a list of devices linked to your account. Select the device you want to reset to factory settings.

Step 3: On the screen’s right side, select “Erase data”. A message will pop up explaining the consequences of this action. Examine the details meticulously.

Step 4: For security reasons, you might need to confirm your identity. Input the verification code sent to your Samsung phone or tablet, then press “Verify”.

Step 5: If you do not obtain a code, there are alternatives such as “Verify via text message” or “Verify using backup code”.

Step 6: Once verified, click “Erase” to validate your choice. You will then need to input your Samsung Account password.

Step 7: Input the password and tap “Next” to advance.​ The device will begin the factory reset procedure, deleting all information.​ After this is finished, you will lose the ability to manage the device remotely.

begin the factory reset procedure | how to factory reset Samsung Galaxy tablet

Method 2: Reset via Google Find My Device

You can additionally execute a factory reset from a distance using Google’s Find My Device service. This technique wipes all information from your device, restoring it to its default factory settings. Make sure your device is turned on, linked to the internet, and that Find My Device is activated.

Step 1: Using a computer or a mobile device, launch a web browser and go to Google’s Find My Device. Log in with the Google account linked to your Samsung device.

Step 2: After logging in, you’ll find a list of devices connected to your Google account. Select the Samsung device that you want to reset.

Step 3: Select the “Factory reset device” choice. A message will pop up, alerting that all information will be erased.

devices connected | how to factory reset Samsung Galaxy tablet

Step 4: Verify by clicking on “Reset” and then “Erase” to initiate the factory reset procedure.

initiate the factory reset | how to factory reset Samsung Galaxy tablet

Part 5. Factory Reset Samsung Galaxy Tablet via Recovery Mode

If you’re locked out of your Samsung Galaxy tablet or experiencing software issues, performing a factory reset via Recovery Mode can help. This method erases all data and restores the device to its original settings, even if you can’t access the screen. Follow the steps below to reset your Samsung Galaxy tablet using Recovery Mode.

Step 1: Make sure your tablet is fully powered down. If it’s not responding, press and hold the Power button until it turns off. If you are unable to switch it off by hand, allow the battery to deplete entirely before continuing.

Step 2: Link your tablet to a computer via a USB data cable. For the majority of Samsung tablets, simultaneously press and hold the Volume Up and Power buttons until the Samsung logo appears. For older Samsung tablets (those with a Home button), press and hold the Volume Up, Home, and Power buttons at the same time.

Step 3: Let go of the buttons once the Android Recovery Menu shows up.

Step 4: Utilize the Volume Up and Volume Down buttons to navigate the menu. Select Wipe Data/Factory Reset by highlighting it and pressing the Power button to confirm.

Step 5: You will need to verify the action. Choose Yes – Delete All User Data or Factory Reset to initiate the procedure. This will delete all information and reset the tablet to its factory settings.

Step 6: After the reset is finished, you will go back to the Recovery Menu. Choose Reboot System Now and hit the Power button. Your tablet will reboot as though it is completely new.

Recovery Menu | how to factory reset a Samsung Galaxy tablet

Factory Reset Protection (FRP Warning!)

Upon completing a factory reset, your device might require you to input the credentials for the Google or Samsung account that was previously linked. This is a protective mechanism intended to stop unauthorized entry.

To prevent being locked out post-reset, it is recommended to log out of all accounts before starting the reset. You can achieve this by going to Settings > Accounts > Remove Account for each account.

Bonus. Reset Specific Settings Without Full Factory Reset (No Losing Data)

If you are facing problems with your Samsung device and prefer not to perform a complete factory reset that deletes your personal information, you can choose to reset particular settings. This method enables you to recover specific features without impacting your applications or personal documents. Here are ways to restore different settings on your device –

1. Soft Reset

This choice is perfect for restoring all system settings to their default state without removing your applications or personal information. It restores settings like Wi-Fi passwords, wallpaper, and app preferences.

Step 1: Launch the Settings application on your device. Scroll down and select General Management.

select General Management | how to factory reset Samsung Galaxy tablet

Step 2: Press Reset and choose Reset all settings.

choose Reset all settings | how to factory reset a Samsung Galaxy tablet

Step 3: Examine the given information, then select Reset settings.

Step 4: Verify by selecting Reset. Your device will reboot with the original system settings.

Note: This action will not remove personal information or applications but restore system settings to their original defaults.

2. Reset Network Settings (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, & Mobile Data)

If you’re facing connectivity problems with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or mobile data, restoring network settings can assist in fixing these issues by reverting network configurations to their original defaults.

Step 1: Launch the Settings application and head to General Management.

Step 2: Select Reset and pick Reset network settings.​

Step 3: Check the information shown, then press Reset settings.

Step 4: Verify by selecting Reset.

selecting Reset | how to factory reset a Samsung Galaxy tablet

Note: Once you complete this reset, you will have to reconnect to Wi-Fi networks and re-establish Bluetooth device connections.

3. Reset Accessibility Settings

If you have modified accessibility settings and want to revert them to their original configurations, this option enables you to do so without impacting other system settings or personal information.

Step 1: Access the Settings app and select General Management.

Step 2: Press on Reset button. Choose Reset accessibility preferences.

Reset accessibility | how to factory reset a Samsung Galaxy tablet

Step 3: Examine the given information, then press Reset settings.

Step 4: Verify by selecting Reset.

Note: This action will restore all accessibility settings to their default values but will not impact personal data or any other system configurations.

Conclusion

Performing a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy device is an easy and efficient way to fix problems or get your device ready for selling. Nonetheless, if you’re unable to access your device or encountering FRP issues, Passixer Android Unlocker is the perfect solution. This software lets you effortlessly bypass locks and reset your device without losing data, ensuring a swift and smooth experience.

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