The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G is a powerhouse of a smartphone, packed with features that make it a favorite among users. However, there may come a time when you need to perform a factory reset, whether to troubleshoot problems, erase personal data before selling the device, or simply to refresh your phone’s performance. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about how to factory reset your Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G, along with some important tips and considerations.
Understanding Factory Reset: What Happens?
Before diving into the process, it’s crucial to understand what a factory reset entails. A factory reset will completely erase all data stored on your device, reverting it to its original factory settings. This includes:
- All personal files and data, including photos, apps, and accounts.
- All applications and their associated data.
- Your customized settings and preferences.
In summary, performing a factory reset will give your phone a fresh start, but at the cost of losing all existing data. Therefore, it’s essential to back up your data before proceeding with the reset.
When to Factory Reset Your Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G
There are several circumstances where a factory reset can be beneficial:
1. Device Performance Issues
If your phone is slow, frequently crashes, or experiences software glitches, a factory reset may resolve these issues by clearing out unnecessary files and software clutter.
2. Preparing to Sell or Give Away
If you’re planning to sell your device or hand it over to someone else, a factory reset ensures that all your personal data is erased, protecting your privacy.
3. Malware or Virus Concerns
If you suspect that your device has been compromised by malware, a factory reset can remove any malicious software.
Preparing Your Device for a Factory Reset
Before initiating the factory reset, there are a few preparatory steps to take to ensure a smooth process:
Step 1: Backup Your Data
To prevent data loss, back up your important files. You can do this through the following methods:
- Using Samsung Cloud or your preferred cloud service.
- Transferring data to your computer via USB.
Step 2: Charge Your Device
Make sure your device is adequately charged, ideally above 50%. A factory reset can take some time, and you don’t want your device to shut down mid-process due to low battery.
Step 3: Remove External Storage
If your Galaxy S20 FE 5G has a microSD card, consider removing it to ensure your personal data isn’t accidentally deleted.
How to Factory Reset Your Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G
Now, let’s explore the methods for performing a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G. There are primarily two methods: via the settings menu and using hardware buttons.
Method 1: Reset via Settings Menu
This method is the simplest way to achieve a factory reset. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Open the Settings App
Navigate to the home screen and tap on the “Settings” app, which can be identified by the gear icon.
Step 2: Access General Management
Scroll down to find the “General Management” option and tap to open it.
Step 3: Select Reset
In the General Management menu, look for the “Reset” option and tap on it.
Step 4: Initiate Factory Data Reset
Tap on “Factory data reset.” You’ll be presented with information about what will be erased during the reset.
Step 5: Confirm Your Selection
Scroll down and click on “Reset.” You may need to enter your device’s PIN or password for security purposes.
Step 6: Complete the Reset
Finally, tap on “Delete all” to confirm your action. Your device will restart and begin the factory reset process.
Method 2: Factory Reset Using Hardware Buttons
If your device is unresponsive or you’re unable to access the settings, you can perform a factory reset using the hardware buttons. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Turn Off Your Device
Press and hold the power button and select “Power off” to turn off your device completely.
Step 2: Boot into Recovery Mode
Press and hold the Volume Up button and the Power button simultaneously until the Samsung Galaxy logo appears. Release both buttons, and the Recovery menu will appear.
Step 3: Navigate the Recovery Menu
Use the Volume buttons to navigate through the options and highlight “Wipe data/factory reset.”
Step 4: Confirm Your Selection
Press the Power button to select this option. Then, navigate to “Yes” and select it to confirm.
Step 5: Complete the Reset
Once the reset is completed, select “Reboot system now” to restart your device.
Post-Factory Reset: What to Do Next
After a successful factory reset, your Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G will return to the initial setup screen, just like when you first purchased it. Here’s what you should do next:
1. Restore Your Data
If you backed up your data, you could restore it during the setup process or use Samsung Smart Switch to transfer files back to your device.
2. Set Up Your Accounts
You will need to log back into your Google and Samsung accounts to access your apps and services.
3. Reinstall Your Apps
Revisit the Google Play Store to reinstall your essential applications that you need on your device.
4. Customize Settings
Once everything is set up, customize your settings, preferences, and home screen to suit your needs.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting Tips
While the factory reset process is generally straightforward, there might be some challenges that users face. Here are common problems and their solutions:
Device Won’t Power On
If your device doesn’t turn on or respond, try performing a forced restart by holding the Power button and the Volume Down button for about 10 seconds.
Cannot Access Settings or Recovery Mode
If your phone’s touchscreen is unresponsive, a hardware factory reset using the button method is your best option.
Data Not Restored After Reset
If you face issues restoring data after resetting, ensure you are using the correct backup account and have enabled the necessary settings to sync your data.
Conclusion
Factory resetting your Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G can be done easily with the right guidance. Whether it’s for performance issues, preparation for resale, or troubleshooting, understanding the process is crucial. Always remember to backup your data before proceeding to avoid unwanted loss. With this guide, you should feel confident in executing a factory reset and reviving your device’s performance.
By taking the necessary steps both before and after the reset, maintaining your Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G becomes seamless. Should you need further assistance, refer back to this article for clarity on every step of the process. Enjoy your refreshed smartphone experience!
What is a factory reset on the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G?
A factory reset on the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G erases all data and settings stored on the device, restoring it to its original factory state. This process can help resolve issues like slow performance, software glitches, or unwanted files. It is often used when preparing to sell the phone or giving it away to ensure that personal information is removed.
After a factory reset, the device will reboot and require you to set it up as if it were new. All data, including apps, accounts, and personal files, will be lost unless they are backed up beforehand. Therefore, it’s essential to back up any important data before proceeding with the reset.
How do I back up my data before performing a factory reset?
Before performing a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G, it’s crucial to back up your data to prevent any loss. You can use Samsung Cloud, Google Drive, or other third-party backup services to save your files. For Samsung Cloud, go to Settings, tap on your account name at the top, select ‘Samsung Cloud,’ and follow the prompts to back up your device.
If you prefer using Google Drive, ensure that you have the app installed and are logged into your Google account. You can manually select files such as photos and documents to back up, or use the auto-sync option to back up your data regularly. Once you have secured your essential files, you can confidently proceed with the factory reset.
What are the steps to perform a factory reset on the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G?
To perform a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G, start by opening the Settings app on your device. Scroll down and tap on ‘General management,’ then select ‘Reset.’ From there, choose ‘Factory data reset.’ This will display a list of data that will be erased when you proceed with the reset.
Next, scroll down and tap the ‘Reset’ button, followed by ‘Delete all’ to confirm your choice. Your device will then begin the reset process, which may take a few minutes. Once completed, your Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G will reboot and take you to the initial setup screen as if it were new.
Can I perform a factory reset if I forgot my password?
Yes, if you forget your password, you can still perform a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G using the hardware buttons. First, power off the device by holding the Volume Down and Power buttons simultaneously, and select ‘Power off.’ Once the phone is off, press and hold the Volume Up, Power, and Side buttons until the Samsung logo appears.
Once in Recovery Mode, use the Volume buttons to navigate to ‘Wipe data/factory reset’ and select it using the Power button. Confirm your selection, and the device will reset itself, erasing all data, including the forgotten password. After this process, you’ll be able to set up the phone again as if it were new.
Will a factory reset delete everything on my phone?
Yes, a factory reset will delete all the data stored on your Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G, including apps, contacts, photos, and personal settings. Essentially, it returns the device to its out-of-the-box state. Therefore, it’s essential to make a backup of anything important before proceeding with the reset to avoid losing valuable information.
After the reset, there will be no way to recover data that was not backed up. If you want to retain photos, music, or any other files, ensure they are saved to an external storage device or cloud service. Once everything is backed up, you can proceed with confidence.
How long does it take to perform a factory reset on the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G?
The factory reset process on the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G usually takes around 5 to 10 minutes. This duration may vary depending on factors such as the amount of data on the device and whether the reset is initiated through the settings or recovery mode. The actual time it takes is often short, as the device quickly wipes and resets itself.
After the reset, your device will reboot, which may take additional time as the phone initializes its system and prepares for the setup process. Overall, you can expect a total of around 15 to 20 minutes, including the setup, before you can start using your device again.
Will my Samsung account and apps be deleted after a factory reset?
Yes, a factory reset will remove your Samsung account, along with all installed apps and their data. Upon completion of the reset, you will need to log back into your Samsung account or create a new one if desired. All personal apps must be downloaded again from the Google Play Store or Galaxy Store after the reset.
However, if your apps and data were backed up prior to the reset, you can restore them during the setup process. Using your Google or Samsung account will allow you to retrieve previous app settings and re-download applications, making it easier to return to your previous setup.
Can a factory reset fix performance issues on my Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G?
Yes, performing a factory reset can help resolve various performance issues on your Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G. When a device becomes sluggish or experiences software glitches, a reset effectively clears out potential software corruptions and copies of unused files, allowing the system to run more smoothly. Additionally, it can help remove any apps that may be causing conflicts or draining system resources.
However, it’s important to note that a factory reset should be considered a last resort after trying other troubleshooting steps. Issues related to hardware components, such as a failing battery or damaged internal parts, may persist even after a reset. If performance issues continue, consulting a professional for hardware evaluation may be necessary.