How to Factory Reset Samsung Galaxy Safely [2026]

A factory reset wipes your Samsung Galaxy back to its original state. Here's how to do it safely and what to back up first.

Step 1: Back Up Your Data (Critical)

Before resetting, back up:

• Photos/Videos: Enable Google Photos backup or Smart Switch backup
• Contacts: Sync to Google or Samsung account
• Messages: Use Samsung Cloud or Smart Switch
• WhatsApp: In-app backup to Google Drive (WhatsApp → Settings → Chats → Chat Backup)
• Other app data: Check if individual apps have backup options

Step 2: Remove Accounts (To Avoid FRP Lock)

Go to Settings → Accounts and Backup → Manage Accounts — remove your Samsung account and Google account before resetting. Failure to do this may trigger Factory Reset Protection (FRP) lock after reset.

Step 3: Perform the Factory Reset

1. Go to Settings → General Management → Reset → Factory Data Reset.
2. Review what will be deleted.
3. Tap Reset → enter your PIN/password.
4. Tap Delete All to confirm.
5. The phone will restart and wipe (takes 5–15 minutes).

Alternative: Reset via Recovery Mode

If the phone can't boot normally:

1. Power off → hold Volume Up + Side button.
2. In Recovery Mode: select Wipe Data/Factory Reset.

After Factory Reset

Use Smart Switch or Samsung Cloud restore to bring back your data. Sign in to Google and Samsung accounts to restore app purchases and subscriptions.

Dr.Fone Tip: Before factory resetting, use Dr.Fone – Backup & Restore for a complete Galaxy backup including third-party app data that regular methods miss.