A factory reset returns your phone to how it left the factory. It can fix serious problems or remove a forgotten screen lock, but it erases everything on the phone. Read this first.

Before you reset

  • Back up if you can still use the phone: Settings → Google → Backup, Google Photos, and WhatsApp chat backup.
  • Know your Google account and password. After a reset you must sign in with the Google account that was on the phone (Factory Reset Protection).
  • Charge to at least 70% and connect to Wi-Fi or mobile data, as Google recommends.
Google advises trying other fixes before a factory reset if you are resetting to fix a problem. See make your Android phone faster and fix apps that keep crashing.

Option 1: from Settings (phone unlocked)

Settings → System → Reset options → Erase all data (factory reset). Brands label this differently (Samsung: General management → Reset; Tecno and Infinix: Settings → System → Reset options).

Option 2: remotely with Find Hub (phone locked)

If you are locked out but the phone is online, go to google.com/android/find on another device, sign in with the phone’s Google account, select the phone and choose Factory reset device.

Option 3: recovery mode (phone locked, offline)

  1. Turn the phone off.
  2. Hold the button combination for your brand to enter recovery mode (commonly power + volume up; check your maker’s support page).
  3. Use the volume buttons to choose Wipe data/factory reset and the power button to confirm.
  4. Choose Reboot system now.

After the reset

Set up the phone and sign in with the same Google account. Then restore your backup.

Forgot your Google password too?

Recover your Google account first: how to recover a Gmail account.

Avoid “FRP bypass” shops and tools. They are often scams or malware, and Factory Reset Protection exists to stop stolen phones being reused. If you bought a used phone that is locked to someone else’s account, return it to the seller. See what to check before buying a used phone.

This guide was checked in October 2026. Menus and services change, so if something looks different on your phone, check with your provider.

Common questions

Will a factory reset delete everything?

Yes. Google says a factory reset erases all your data from the phone. Back up first if you can.

Why does my phone ask for a Google account after reset?

That is Factory Reset Protection. After a reset, you must sign in with the Google account that was on the phone, which stops thieves using stolen phones.

I forgot my Google password. What now?

Recover it at Google’s account recovery page before or after the reset. See our guide to recovering a Gmail account.

Should I pay for FRP bypass?

No. Bypass tools and services are often scams or malware, and are used to unlock stolen phones. Recover your Google account instead.

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