When your Samsung S6 Edge Plus begins to slow down, becomes unresponsive, or you simply want to start fresh, performing a factory reset is one of the best ways to rejuvenate your device. This guide will walk you through the process of factory resetting your Samsung S6 Edge Plus step by step, ensuring you’re well-prepared to handle this essential maintenance task.
Understanding Factory Reset
A factory reset, also known as a hard reset, is a process that restores your device to its original factory settings. This means all personal data, apps, and settings will be completely erased, returning the device to the state it was in when you first unboxed it. Factory resets are commonly performed to:
- Resolve persistent software issues
- Enhance device performance
- Prepare the device for sale or transfer
It’s essential to back up your data before proceeding with a factory reset, as this operation cannot be undone and will eliminate all personal information stored on your device.
Preparing for a Factory Reset
Before diving into the actual process, there are a few crucial steps you should take to prepare.
1. Back Up Your Data
Data backup is a critical step. You can back up your data in several ways:
- Samsung Cloud: Go to Settings > Cloud and Accounts > Samsung Cloud. Follow the prompts to back up your data.
- Google Account: Ensure your Google account is synced by navigating to Settings > Accounts > Google and checking the sync options.
2. Charge Your Device
A factory reset requires a sufficient power supply to avoid interruptions. Ensure your device is charged to at least 50% before proceeding.
3. Disable Factory Reset Protection
Factory Reset Protection (FRP) is designed to prevent unauthorized access to your device after a reset. If you plan to sell or give away your device, make sure you sign out of your Google account by going to Settings > Accounts > Google > [Your account] > Remove Account.
Methods to Factory Reset Samsung S6 Edge Plus
There are two primary methods to perform a factory reset on your Samsung S6 Edge Plus: through the device settings and via hardware keys. Below are the comprehensive steps for each method.
Method 1: Using Device Settings
This is the easiest and most straightforward method to reset your device.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Open the Settings app: Access the Settings by swiping down from the top of the screen and tapping the gear icon.
- Navigate to Backup and Reset: Scroll down and select “Backup and reset.” Here, you can access options to back up your data before proceeding.
- Perform Factory Data Reset: Tap on “Factory data reset.” You will see a list of the data that will be erased.
- Confirm Reset: Tap “Reset device” and then “Delete all.” If prompted, enter your PIN, password, or pattern.
- Wait for the Reset: Your device will restart and initiate the factory reset. This process may take several minutes.
Method 2: Using Hardware Keys
If your device is unresponsive or you are unable to access the settings, this method will come in handy.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Power off the Device: Hold down the Power button and select “Power off” from the menu.
- Boot into Recovery Mode: Press and hold the Volume Up, Home, and Power buttons simultaneously until the Samsung logo appears. Once the logo appears, release the buttons.
- Select Wipe Data/Factory Reset: Use the Volume Down button to navigate to “Wipe data/factory reset” and select it using the Power button.
- Confirm the Reset: Navigate to “Yes” to confirm your choice and initiate the reset process.
- Restart the Device: After the reset is complete, you will see the option to reboot your system. Highlight “Reboot system now” using the Power button.
Post-Reset: Setting Up Your Device
After your Samsung S6 Edge Plus has completed the factory reset, it will boot as if it were fresh out of the box. Follow these steps to set it up:
1. Connect to Wi-Fi
To begin with, connect to a reliable Wi-Fi network. This is not only necessary for downloading system updates but also for restoring your backed-up data.
2. Sign into Your Google Account
This is your chance to restore your Google-backed data and apps. Follow the prompted steps to sign into your Google account.
3. Restore from Backup
If you’ve backed up your data earlier, you’ll get the option to restore from Google Drive or Samsung Cloud. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the restoration.
4. Customize Your Settings
Adjust your Settings to your liking, including display options, sound preferences, and security settings. This is a great time to explore new features introduced in software updates.
Common Issues After Resetting
Sometimes, users may encounter issues after performing a factory reset. Here are some common problems and solutions:
Device Not Booting
If your phone gets stuck in a boot loop after the reset, try rebooting into recovery mode again, and perform the “Wipe Cache Partition” option.
Apps Not Restoring
If some apps are not restored, ensure you have the correct settings enabled in your Google account and try manually re-downloading the required apps from the Play Store.
Conclusion
Performing a factory reset on your Samsung S6 Edge Plus can breathe new life into your smartphone. By following the steps in this guide, you can reset your device safely and effectively. Remember to back up your data, prepare for the reset, and take your time with the setup process afterward. If you encounter any issues, don’t hesitate to seek further assistance or refer back to this guide. With a clean slate, your Samsung S6 Edge Plus is ready to perform at its best, whether for your personal use or for its new owner.
What is a factory reset on the Samsung S6 Edge Plus?
A factory reset is a process that restores your Samsung S6 Edge Plus to its original manufacturer settings. This means that all user data, applications, and custom settings will be erased, effectively returning the device to the state it was in when you first purchased it. It can be an essential troubleshooting step if you experience software problems or if you want to prepare the device for a new user.
However, it is crucial to understand that a factory reset should be used as a last resort. Before proceeding with a reset, it is recommended to back up any important data such as contacts, photos, and documents. The device can recover from various issues through other troubleshooting methods, including clearing app cache or performing a soft reset.
How do I perform a factory reset on my Samsung S6 Edge Plus?
To perform a factory reset on your Samsung S6 Edge Plus, start by navigating to the “Settings” app on your device. Scroll down and select “Backup and Reset.” From there, you will find an option labeled “Factory Data Reset.” Ensure that you review the information presented, as it will detail what data will be erased.
Once you confirm that you want to proceed, tap on “Reset Device” and then “Delete All.” Your device will reboot and begin the reset process, which may take a few minutes. After the reset is complete, you will be greeted with the initial setup screen, similar to when you first purchased the phone.
Will I lose all my data after a factory reset?
Yes, performing a factory reset will erase all data stored on your Samsung S6 Edge Plus. This includes contacts, photos, videos, apps, settings, and any other personalized information on the device. Therefore, it is essential to back up your data before initiating the reset process to prevent accidental loss of important files.
To effectively back up your data, you can use Samsung’s Smart Switch application or services such as Google Drive. These tools allow you to save your information securely, making it easy to restore your data after the reset is complete. Always verify that your backup is complete before proceeding with the factory reset.
What should I do if my device is unresponsive during the reset process?
If your Samsung S6 Edge Plus becomes unresponsive or freezes during the factory reset process, you can try performing a force restart. To do this, simultaneously press and hold the Power, Volume Down, and Home buttons until the device reboots. This action may take about 10 seconds, so you should continue holding the buttons until the Samsung logo appears.
If the device does not respond to a force restart, you may need to attempt the factory reset through recovery mode. To enter recovery mode, turn off the device and then press and hold the Volume Up, Home, and Power buttons together. Once the recovery screen appears, use the volume buttons to navigate to “Wipe Data/Factory Reset,” and confirm your choice with the Power button.
How can I restore my device after a factory reset?
After performing a factory reset on your Samsung S6 Edge Plus, you will need to set up your device from scratch. You will be taken through the initial setup process, where you can select your preferred language, connect to Wi-Fi, and sign in with your Google account. This step is essential for accessing Google services and restoring your applications and data if you backed them up.
If you used Samsung Smart Switch or Google Drive for backup, you can restore your data during the setup process. After signing in to your Google account, your apps may automatically begin to download again. For Smart Switch, follow the on-screen instructions to retrieve your backed-up content from the previous device or backup file.
Is there an alternative to factory resetting my Samsung S6 Edge Plus?
Yes, if you are facing issues with your Samsung S6 Edge Plus but do not want to perform a factory reset, there are several alternative troubleshooting steps you can take. One common method is clearing the cache partition, which can help resolve performance issues without deleting your data. To do this, you need to enter recovery mode and select the option to clear the cache.
Additionally, you can try uninstalling recently installed apps or performing software updates. Sometimes, specific applications can cause problems, and removing them may resolve your issues. In cases of persistent problems, consider reaching out to Samsung customer support or visiting a service center for professional assistance.