No user can be insured and 100% confident in the quality of his mobile phone, much less in the reliability of the operating system and other installed applications. Perhaps smartphones have become smarter and more convenient, but in many cases the problems remain the same - complete failure of the phone, the appearance of non-standard errors, glitches and freezes, muting the sound and much more. As a rule, in the Android operating system, most problems can be solved yourself, and there is no need to take the phone to the nearest service center, paying several thousand rubles for actions that you can do yourself without much effort.
In this material, we will tell you how to reset the settings on Android to factory settings, why it is needed, and what the consequences will be after the reset.
Why do they resort to this procedure?
- One of the reasons to use this option is to remove confidential information, for example, if you are selling your phone to another person and do not want any information about you to remain. In case of theft, this method will not work, but you can use the option to remotely control your device to erase data immediately after turning on the phone.
- Another reason, according to which the settings are reset - this is the appearance of errors and problems of a systemic and software nature.
What will the user lose from his device?
If you decide to reset your settings, you should understand that the system will automatically remove all programs that you installed through file managers or the Gooogle Play service, completely clear the history of correspondence, SMS, delete contact information, mail accounts and much more. The phone's memory will be completely cleared, but the SD card will remain with all the data! Essentially, you will receive a “clean” smartphone, as if you had just bought it in a store.
If you do not want to lose data, then create backup copies so that you can later restore them in whole or in part. We also recommend that you copy some of your photos and videos to a PC or another phone at a certain period of time.
How to reset to factory settings on Android
There are three ways in total, and they differ significantly from each other. Let's look at each of them in detail:
- Reset in phone settings
- Resetting with service codes
- Key reset
Method 1. How to reset your Android phone to factory settings using the menu
All operations will be carried out from the main menu of Android OS. You need to go to the “Settings” item, select the tab called “Privacy” there, and then click on the “Reset Settings” tab.
As you can see in the photo above, here you can activate the following items:
- “Data Archiving” (“Data Copying”)— The system will automatically save copies of all applications installed on your device, settings from Google services, as well as data about each Wi-Fi network previously saved on the phone.
- "Auto-recovery"— All programs will be automatically restored with all settings.
Click "Reset settings" and confirm that you want to erase data. You will see a window with a list of data that is deleted after resetting the settings. As soon as the phone reboots, you can reinstall any programs and add accounts.
Method 2. Reset with service codes
In the Android system, like in any other system (Java, Symbian), there are special codes with which you can activate the restore operation to factory settings.
Attention! Codes may change and may not be suitable for your model or version of Android, so perform all operations carefully! We are not responsible for all actions, and we provide information with codes for review.
Here are some codes. You will need to go into your phone's dialing mode and enter one of these:
- *#*#7378423#*#*
- *2767*3855#
- *#*#7780#*#
Method 3. Key reset (using Recovery)
Each Android smartphone has special keys that can be used to start the factory reset process. Since most of the phones nowadays come with a touch screen, the volume keys, home button, power key are mainly used for resetting.
Here is a sample list of buttons that will allow you to reset settings:
- “Volume down” + “Turn on device”. This is one of the most common combinations used on many phones. Try it first. If that doesn't work, see the list below.
- “Volume up” + “Volume down”.
- “Turn on device” + “Home” key + “Volume up”.
- “Volume up” + “Volume down” + “Turn on device”.
- “Volume Up” + “Home” key.
You need to hold and press the keys at the same time. Approximate holding time is 2-5 seconds. As soon as the system enters a special mode – Recovery, a menu will appear on your screen.
To move through the list, use the volume up and down keys, since the devices are mostly touch-sensitive!
Find the wipe data/factory reset item and click on it. Sometimes this item is not on the list, but instead there will be one of them: Clear eMMC, Clear Flash! Once you click on the selected tab, the system will ask for confirmation.
Select Yes, and at the end click the Reboot System menu item - this restarts the operating system.
In some versions of Android, the items presented may change depending on the version, but basically the same type of menu is used. We also strongly recommend that you review the instructions for your mobile device before calling up the menu or using codes. Sometimes service codes and reset keys are already written there.
If you were unable to restore the device after resetting the settings or errors and glitches remain, take the phone under warranty to the store where it was purchased or contact the service center if the warranty has already expired.
Every PC user has encountered a problem when the operating system starts to malfunction and reboots frequently. This happens due to the loss of system files, a large number of viruses or technical problems with the equipment.
It is especially unpleasant to find yourself in a situation where Windows stops loading. This may result in the loss of data: valuable documents, music and photos.
Basic system recovery methods
In most cases, you can reset your system to factory settings or restore Windows to work with working system files on your computer. To do this, it is not necessary to have special education or deep knowledge of software. Just use the tips below. The following methods are considered the most effective:
- Loading the last known good configuration;
- Built-in function " Windows System Restore»;
- Using the system boot disk.
In different situations, one of the above methods will help to return to the previous state. Each user should be able to debug the system, so we will dwell on the methods of restoring Windows in more detail.
Loading Last Known Known Configuration
This option is considered the simplest; it allows you to quickly return the system to working condition. First you need to go to Safe Mode. To do this, while Windows is loading, press the F8 key and select " Last Known Good Configuration" After which the system will restore the previous working settings and system files, then the download will begin again.
In different laptop models, entering safe mode to further reset or restore the system is done using system utilities. Below are the combinations to run some of them:
- ASUS - F9;
- Dell XPS-F8;
- Lenovo ThinkPad - F11;
- Lenovo IdeaPad - dedicated OneKey Rescue key;
- Toshiba - F8 or 0;
- Sony VAIO - F10 or ASSIST key;
- HP Pavilion - F11;
- LG-F11;
- Rover - Alt (hold);
- Samsung - F4.
On recent UEFI PCs, entering Safe Mode will require you to change the defaults when selecting your OS. More detailed information can be found in the technical documentation.
Using Last Known Good Configuration, you can roll back the latest versions of drivers that you may have installed incorrectly. Or return working system files that were affected by malicious software. This method of returning to the previous configuration will help with minor bugs and freezes that appeared with the latest changes to the system. In case of more serious damage, it may turn out to be useless and you will need to try other methods to get the files back.
Windows System Restore
It is usually used after a previous method that did not produce results. The operating system has the ability to make several restore points that record the state of all programs at a certain point. You can make such points yourself or configure the frequency of autosaves.
Before creating a restore point manually, it is better to close running programs. Let's go to " Control Panel" and select the item " System" Next, go to the menu “ System protection", in the window that opens, select " Creating a restore point" and indicate its name. After the procedure is completed, a system message will be displayed - “The recovery point was created successfully.”
To start the recovery procedure, go to the menu “ Start", click on " Control Panel", go to the item " Recovery- Starting system recovery." In the window that opens, you can select the last point or view all available ones. By clicking " Find affected programs", you will see the entire list of applications that will be changed. Usually it is enough to choose a point 3-4 days before malfunctions and failures occur. After selecting a restore point and confirming it, the computer will restart.
In the same menu, you can restore using an image made in advance. It is first saved to a DVD, flash drive or external hard drive. Today, parameters are most often restored from an image via a USB connection - it’s fast and convenient.
For inexperienced users, it is better to leave all the proposed settings by default; after several transitions, we confirm the reset process by clicking the Finish button. It is worth noting that if you created a backup with errors or the media with the image was damaged, then the system startup may be interrupted. In this case, it is better to install a new environment on the computer and first format the hard drive.
Using the system boot disk
If Windows is seriously malfunctioning or is heavily exposed to viruses, you may need a boot disk. With it, you can reset the system or roll it back to a working state and the desired settings. In safe mode, select " Troubleshooting your computer", then insert the disc into the DVD drive and in the window that opens, click on the "" button.
The program offers us a choice of several ways to set default parameters:
- Startup repair - finding the main problems that prevent Windows from starting;
- System Restore – search for a restore point with working settings to reset;
- Restoring a system image - using a previously made backup;
- Windows Memory Diagnostic – check system memory;
- Command line – working with files via a text line.
The recovery process is the same as with the built-in application. But by working with the disk, you eliminate the possibility of viruses and other third-party software having a harmful effect on the operation.
Full reset to factory settings
If the recovery methods described above do not produce results, you can try a full reset to factory settings. To do this, some laptop and PC models have a hidden system partition with a copy of Windows in its basic state.
Manufacturers offer users special utilities that will make the reset process simple and straightforward. The operating principle of such programs is similar and even inexperienced users can understand them. You can start the utility using a special key or through safe mode while the computer is booting. If such a utility is provided by the developer, its name will be displayed at the end of the list of recovery options.
In the window that opens, we need to select the first item – “ Restore to condition at the time of purchase" After finishing the work, the computer will be rebooted and a rollback to factory settings will occur (you will need to select the default language again and create an account).
It is worth noting that all files that were previously on the hard drive will be deleted permanently. Therefore, we recommend saving everything you need on a flash drive or other storage device in advance.
Video on the topic
By following the advice in this guide, every user will be able to perform a full OS rollback without difficulties or obstacles. Here are the most current and actually working reset methods. Windows that you won't find anywhere else. Tips information was collected by specialists in repairing and configuring Windows systems.
Computer owners are often faced with the need to roll back their operating system to factory settings. Windows with complete erasure of all data. Performing such actions may be required in several cases:
- Computer sales.
- System software failure.
- Installation of incorrect drivers and programs.
- Lost productivity.
- Contamination with remnants of previously installed applications.
- System failure caused by a virus.
Only probable causes of system rollback are listed Windows 7 to factory settings. There are other reasons for doing this. To execute reset Windows 7 settings, follow the instructions in this manual, and the process will be much faster and more productive.
If you decide to reset your computer, you need to take care of your data stored on the hard drive that has been accumulated while using the Windows system. This is very important to do, because in addition to files, the system stores program data and passwords, so simply formatting the hard drive is not enough. In addition to personal data, videos, photos and music, you must separately save additional program files, without which the software will not be able to function. A striking example of this is the program Keeper from Web Money, which will be impossible to launch without a special file, which will result in loss of access to your wallets with all the funds in them. Therefore, resetting the settings must be carried out thoroughly prepared.
Returns using integrated capabilities
IN Microsoft We took care of performing a full system rollback to factory settings, which anyone, even an inexperienced user, can do. The method is very simple. First you will need to restart your computer, during which you need to press the key F9 or keyboard shortcut Alt And F10. The button combination may vary depending on the PC device. If after the first reboot you were unable to enter the menu, you need to try another key combination and, using a trial method, call the necessary system function that will restore Windows 7. This is a fairly simple and effective way to return the system to its original state, but what if the backup partition was damaged or was erased to free up hard drive space?Additional manipulations
Similar situations with partitions happen quite often, so don’t worry if you couldn’t return the configuration to its original state in the normal way. You can restore data without reinstalling the system using a flash drive or other media on which the Windows installation package is unpacked. The removable drive must first be prepared and formatted in Fat 32. The creation of a recovery card must be done through a previously downloaded system image, which, using the program Nero or deployed to media. Now you need to insert the card into the USB connector and restart the computer. When rebooting, you need to boot the system from the memory card, not from the hard drive.To do this, you will need to press the key several times in a row. F8 until a small menu appears offering to boot available systems on media connected to the system unit. If you cannot call the boot menu and specify the initial boot from USB. Thus, the next startup will start not from the hard drive, but from removable media. Instead of reinstalling, you need to choose recovery mode, which will return Windows to factory settings. This method may not delete all data, so if it fails, the installation memory card can be used later for reinstallation, but more on that later in the article.
Resetting the system through the control panel
Almost all Windows are designed with a factory reset option in the utilities menu in the control panel. You must select a bookmark from the list of options "System Restore". In the further dialog that opens, you should select a previously saved rollback point with the desired configuration. The disadvantage of this return is that if the configuration has not been saved before, then the possibility of resetting is excluded.Erase Windows data with third-party applications
Some developers have created utilities to roll back the system configuration, but this option also depends on a previously prepared restore point. To perform a system reset in this way, after first installing or purchasing a PC, you need to save it to a separate OS duplicate media, for example, on a disk, and then use it if necessary. With such a disk you can restore the functionality of the OS even in the most severe cases, such as a “blue screen”.Laptops
Resetting parameters and system resources on laptops is carried out almost like on a PC. The only difference is the combination of keys that must be pressed to open the menu during a reboot. Most models use Ctrl + F12, F8, F9, F10, depending on the manufacturer and model.This ensures a complete return to the factory configuration. If the system remains incompletely cleaned, you can perform a reinstallation. To do this, you need a pre-prepared installation card or Windows distribution disk. You can use an assembly or a license, the process is identical in both cases.
First, you will need to download the finished image and copy the contents to a card or hard drive, depending on how you created the rollback point. If you cannot find or create a similar installer among your friends, you can contact other people on the Internet who can provide a pre-created point for resetting the resources of the installed operating system. Fortunately, the capabilities of the network make it possible to perform the procedure very simply using a file hosting service.
Complete reinstallation
The most acceptable option for a complete erase is to boot the computer through, rather than through the installation menu, in order to erase all information on the hard drive and install an absolutely clean OS. This method is the most relevant, since most users ignore saving a new copy, and reinstallation solves all problems very quickly and easily. The main thing is to give the formatting command during installation and selecting a hard drive, and then everything will go as expected.How to restore a laptop to factory settings.
Where to start today's topic "How to restore factory settings on a laptop." After all, this procedure is used for different purposes. Some are due to the fact that the computer begins to slow down due to a bunch of installed programs, half of which were also uninstalled incorrectly. Others because Windows is already so infected with viruses that there is no point in somehow restoring everything. Or it simply won't load. The third case is when the equipment is returned to the store under warranty from the store, and the service personnel need to reset Windows 10 to factory settings.
How to reset a laptop to factory settings
Restoring factory settings on a laptop is essentially not difficult, and now you will see for yourself. In this article I will try to mention all the major manufacturers. I hope I don't forget anyone.
Acer
The process can be implemented directly from Windows. To do this, you only need to install a special program " Acer Recovery Management«.
We go into the BIOS, go to “Main“, where you should make sure that the “D 2D Recovery" function is enabled (Enabled).
We reboot, and at the same time press the hotkey combination Alt + F 10 until the application window opens.
Now select the option highlighted below in the screenshot. In other OSs, say (8/8.1), the phrase may have a different meaning: “Return to original state.”
We confirm our actions and wait for the work to complete.
This video is in case you have an English version of the utility
.
Asus
I would like to note in advance that if the Asus system is being restored for the first time, then you should first deactivate “Boot Booster” in the BIOS.
Now we can begin. We start the laptop, press the F9 key. The button can be released after the “Boot Manager” window appears. Press Enter on “Windows Setup”.
We answer the very top line, as shown in the figure below.
And we wait for the end of the process.
Dell
Restoring a laptop to factory settings from this company is also not difficult. For example, through “Troubleshooting computer problems,” as in the Toshiba option described below.
In order not to repeat myself, I will describe another method. An internal utility will be used here - Dell DataSafe.
a) Let's launch it. Select “Select another backup and additional options.”
b) Check the “Restore My Computer” option.
c) Set the value to “Restore without saving...”
d) We confirm our actions and wait for the end.
Toshiba
First we need to turn off the laptop. Then, holding down the “0” (zero) button, turn it on. You need to release the key only after when you hear a characteristic squeak! Next, follow the instructions on your computer screen.
But what to do if you have an outdated laptop model?
When turning it on or rebooting, press the F8 button on the keyboard and select the very first value.
In the list, click " Toshiba HDDRecovery" and then " Shut down ".
And again follow the instructions on the screen.
Samsung
Restoring factory settings on Samsung is also not difficult.
a) Turn on the PC and click on F4.
B) Go to the “Recovery” tab (if you need to accept the license agreement).
d) Activate “Full recovery”. Don't forget to indicate backup.
D) Waiting for completion.
Lenovo
Inspect the laptop keyboard for “OneKey Rescue,” an inconspicuous small button. It is usually located in the upper left corner next to “Power On”.
Select the option of the same name in the utility.
We mark the item shown in the picture below.
At the end of the work, you should reboot.
MSI
We start the PC and press the F3 key on the keyboard until the already familiar “Windows Boot” window appears Manager". As in the case of Asus, we activate “Windows Setup”.
In the menu we find “MSI Recovery Manager” and click on “Ok”.
HP
This is my favorite manufacturer and in all my time I have only used their development of devices. That's me, by the way. ;)
a) Turn on the laptop and press the ESC key. Next “System Recovery“. You can simplify the situation and immediately use F11 when starting.
b) Activate “Restore to original state”.
d) Let’s use the bottom section “Without creating a copy.”
The ASUS laptop allows you to roll back all settings to their original state, but only under certain conditions. In this article we will talk about restoring factory settings.
There are two ways to reset all settings on ASUS laptops, depending on the changes you have made.
Method 1: RECOVERY utility
Regardless of the default operating system installed, every ASUS laptop has a special partition "Recovery", which saves files for emergency system recovery. This section can be used to restore factory settings, but only in cases where the OS has not been reinstalled on the device and the hard drive has not been formatted.
Enabling the utility
Using the utility
The main disadvantage of this method is the complete removal of any user files from the local disk on which Windows is installed.
It is also important to roll back the BIOS to its original state. We described this process in a separate article on our website.
Method 2: System Tools
If the OS was reinstalled on the laptop and the HDD was cleaned, you can resort to using a system recovery tool. This will roll back Windows to a stable state using restore points.
Conclusion
The considered methods for reverting a laptop to factory settings should be enough to restore the functionality of the operating system and the device as a whole. You can also contact us in the comments if you encounter any difficulties.
