If you’re experiencing issues with your Samsung S20, or if you’re prepping to sell or give away your device, performing a reset can be an invaluable solution. Resetting your phone can help clear up glitches, erase personal data, and restore the device to its original performance. This comprehensive guide will help you understand how to reset a Samsung S20 phone effectively.
Understanding the Types of Resets
Before diving into how to reset your Samsung S20, it’s essential to understand the different types of resets available. Each serves a distinct purpose and can be utilized based on your needs.
1. Soft Reset
A soft reset is a simple restart of your device. This method is useful for resolving minor glitches, freezes, or slow performance. It does not delete any data.
2. Factory Reset
A factory reset, also known as a hard reset, is more drastic. This process erases all data on your device, including apps, settings, and personal files. It restores the phone to its factory settings, making it like new. This is particularly important if you’re planning to sell or pass on your device.
Preparing for a Factory Reset
Prior to performing a factory reset on your Samsung S20, taking a few preparatory steps ensures that your data is safe and that the process goes smoothly.
1. Backup Your Data
It’s crucial to back up any important data before resetting your phone. You can use Samsung’s built-in tools or cloud services. Consider the following options for backup:
- Samsung Cloud: This is integrated into your phone and allows you to back up contacts, photos, and app data.
- Google Drive: You can also back up your data using Google Drive, storing your files in the cloud.
2. Remove Accounts
To prevent any issues with your accounts post-reset, it’s advisable to remove any Google or Samsung accounts from your S20. This step also helps avoid complications with account verification once the reset is complete.
3. Charge Your Device
Make sure your Samsung S20 has enough battery (at least 50%) to complete the reset process without interruptions.
How to Perform a Soft Reset on Your Samsung S20
A soft reset is very simple, follows the steps below to do so:
Step 1: Press and Hold the Power and Volume Down Buttons
Press and hold the Power button and the Volume Down button at the same time.
Step 2: Restart the Device
Once you see the power menu, select Restart. Your device will reboot swiftly, and any minor issues you were experiencing should be resolved.
How to Perform a Factory Reset on Your Samsung S20
If you have decided that a factory reset is the right solution for your situation, follow these steps.
Method 1: Reset from Settings
This is the most straightforward way to reset your Samsung S20. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Open Settings
Locate and tap on the Settings app on your home screen or apps drawer.
Step 2: Navigate to General Management
Scroll down and tap on General Management.
Step 3: Tap on Reset
In the General Management menu, find and select Reset.
Step 4: Choose Factory Data Reset
Tap on Factory Data Reset. You will see a list of all the data and accounts that will be removed.
Step 5: Confirm the Reset
Scroll down to the bottom and tap on Reset. If prompted, enter your PIN or password to confirm the action.
Step 6: Finalize the Reset
Once you confirm, your Samsung S20 will erase all data and reset to factory defaults. It may take a few minutes, so be patient.
Method 2: Reset Using Hardware Buttons
If your device is unresponsive or you’ll prefer to use hardware buttons, you can reset it using this method.
Step 1: Power Off Your Device
Ensure your Samsung S20 is completely powered off. If it’s unresponsive, you may need to force it off by holding the Power button for several seconds.
Step 2: Press the Right Buttons
Press and hold the Volume Up, Bixby, and Power buttons simultaneously until the Samsung logo appears. Release all buttons once you see the logo.
Step 3: Access the Recovery Menu
After you release the buttons, the Android Recovery screen will show up. Use the Volume Down button to navigate through the options.
Step 4: Select Wipe Data/Factory Reset
Highlight and select Wipe data/factory reset using the Power button to confirm.
Step 5: Confirm the Action
Select Yes to confirm that you want to erase all user data. This will begin the reset process.
Step 6: Reboot Your Device
Once the process is complete, choose the Reboot system now option. Your Samsung S20 will restart, and the factory reset will be finalized.
Post-Reset Steps
Once you’ve reset your Samsung S20, you’ll need to set it up again. Here’s how:
1. Set Up Your Device
On starting your device, you will be greeted by the setup wizard. Follow the on-screen instructions to configure your language, connect to Wi-Fi, and register your Google account.
2. Restore Your Data
If you performed a backup earlier, you will have the opportunity to restore your data during the setup process. Choose from options like Samsung Smart Switch, Samsung Cloud, or Google Drive to recover your files.
Common Issues After Resetting
After you reset your Samsung S20, you might face some common post-reset problems. Here’s a quick rundown of those issues and how to address them.
1. Setup Issues
If you encounter errors during device setup, ensure you have a stable internet connection. Reboot your device and attempt the setup again.
2. Device Performance
If your device is slow after a reset, ensure you check for any software updates. Occasionally, new updates can fix performance issues.
3. App Errors
After a reset, some apps might not function correctly. If this happens, uninstall and reinstall the app from the Google Play Store.
Conclusion
Resetting your Samsung S20 phone can breathe new life into your device or make it ready for a new owner. Whether you choose a soft reset to solve minor problems or a comprehensive factory reset for significant issues, following these steps will ensure the process goes smoothly. Remember that backup is crucial, as you’ll want to save all important personal data before proceeding with a reset. When done correctly, resetting can be a powerful tool for maintaining the performance and security of your Samsung S20.
Armed with this robust guide, you can confidently reset your phone and enjoy a fresh start!
What is a factory reset on a Samsung S20?
A factory reset on a Samsung S20 erases all data and settings on the device, returning it to its original state when it was first purchased. This process removes personal files, apps, and user settings, making the phone as if it just came out of the box. It’s often used to fix persistent issues, enhance performance, or prepare the device for a new user.
To perform a factory reset, users can access the settings menu or use hardware buttons if the phone is unresponsive. It’s crucial to back up important data prior to executing the reset, as all information will be lost. Taking this precaution ensures that you can restore your essential files later without significant hassle.
How can I back up my data before performing a reset?
Backing up your data can be done several ways on the Samsung S20. One of the most effective methods is using Samsung Cloud, which allows you to automatically back up contacts, photos, and other files directly to Samsung’s cloud storage. To do this, navigate to Settings > Accounts and Backup > Backup and restore, then select Samsung Cloud and follow the prompts.
Alternatively, you can manually back up data to a computer using a USB cable. Connect your phone to your computer, allow it to recognize the device, and copy the necessary files over. Apps like Google Drive or third-party software can also be used for backups, ensuring you have an accessible copy of your important data before performing the factory reset.
What steps should I follow to reset my Samsung S20?
To reset your Samsung S20 through the settings, open the Settings app and scroll down to the General Management option. Tap on it, then select Reset. From there, you can choose Factory Data Reset, which will guide you through the process. Make sure to read the warning message that appears, confirming that you understand all data will be lost.
Another option for resetting your device is to use the hardware buttons. First, power off the device. Next, simultaneously press and hold the Volume Up and Power buttons until the Samsung logo appears. This will take you to the Android Recovery menu, where you can navigate to “Wipe data/factory reset” using the volume buttons and confirm it with the Power button. Finally, select “Reboot system now” to finish the process.
Will I lose my apps and settings after a factory reset?
Yes, performing a factory reset on your Samsung S20 will result in the loss of all apps, user settings, and personal data stored on the device. This includes downloaded apps, photos, videos, documents, and any custom configurations you’ve set. Therefore, it’s vital to make sure you back up all essential information beforehand to ensure no important data is permanently discarded.
After the reset, you’ll need to reinstall any apps you wish to use again and reconfigure settings according to your preferences. Setting up your device anew can be beneficial, giving you the chance to streamline your app usage and eliminate any clutter that may have developed over time.
How long does a factory reset take on a Samsung S20?
The time it takes to complete a factory reset on a Samsung S20 can vary, but typically it ranges from a few minutes to around 10-15 minutes. The duration depends on various factors, including the amount of data being erased and the device’s performance. After issuing the reset command, the phone will process and erase all data, and then reboot, which can add a little time as well.
Once the factory reset is completed, your device will display the welcome screen, indicating that all previous user data has been cleared. At this point, you can start the setup process as if you are using the phone for the first time, which usually takes additional time, depending on how you choose to set it up.
Can I undo a factory reset on my Samsung S20?
Unfortunately, once you perform a factory reset on your Samsung S20, you cannot undo it or recover any lost data through the device itself. The process is designed to permanently erase all user data, so it’s essential to ensure all necessary backups are completed before proceeding. Additionally, any data lost during the reset cannot be retrieved unless it was previously backed up in a cloud service or on a computer.
If you have utilized cloud services or backup options, you can restore your data after the factory reset is completed. Simply log into your backup service and follow the instructions to restore your files and settings. Regularly backing up your data minimizes the impact of a reset, allowing for a smoother transition back to your personal setup.
What should I do if my Samsung S20 won’t reset?
If your Samsung S20 is unresponsive or fails to reset, there are several potential troubleshooting steps you can take. Start by performing a soft reset, which involves pressing and holding the Volume Down and Power buttons simultaneously until the device restarts. This can resolve minor issues and allow you to attempt the reset process again through the usual settings route.
If the soft reset doesn’t work, you may need to try accessing the Android Recovery mode. Power off your phone, then press and hold the Volume Up and Power buttons until the recovery screen appears. From there, you can navigate to the “Wipe data/factory reset” option. If the device continues not to respond, contacting Samsung support or visiting a certified service center might be necessary for further assistance or potential repairs.