Are you facing issues with your Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus? Sometimes, smartphones may become slow, unresponsive, or display unexpected behavior. A simple reset can often solve many of these problems. This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to reset your Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus, covering everything from soft resets to hard resets. By the end of this article, you will be well-equipped to restore your device to optimal performance.
Understanding the Types of Resets
Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, it’s essential to understand the different types of resets available for your Galaxy S21 Plus. Each type serves a unique purpose.
1. Soft Reset
A soft reset is a simple reboot of your phone. This method is ideal for resolving minor issues without deleting any data. It’s similar to restarting a computer.
2. Factory Reset
A factory reset returns your phone to its original settings. This type of reset will erase all data from your device, including apps, contacts, photos, and files. A factory reset is recommended when you want to sell your phone or solve persistent issues.
3. Hard Reset
Also known as a recovery reset, a hard reset is performed using hardware buttons. This method can usually help when the phone is unresponsive or unable to complete the reset via software.
How to Perform a Soft Reset on Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus
A soft reset is quick and easy. It helps refresh your device without deleting any information.
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Press and hold the Volume Down button and the Power button simultaneously.
- Hold both buttons until the power-off menu appears on the screen.
- Tap on Restart.
- Wait for your device to reboot.
By executing a soft reset, your device will reload all applications and may resolve minor glitches without affecting your data.
How to Factory Reset Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus
A factory reset is a more complete method to enhance your device’s performance but remember to back up your data first, as this process will erase everything.
Backing Up Your Important Data
To ensure you do not lose important information like contacts, photos, and files, here’s how to back up your data before performing a factory reset:
- Using Samsung Cloud:
- Go to Settings > Accounts and Backup > Backup and Restore.
- Select Back up data and choose the data you want to save.
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Tap on Back up.
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Using Google Account:
- Navigate to Settings > Accounts and Backup > Backup and Restore.
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Ensure Back up my data is enabled. This setting allows you to save app data, Wi-Fi passwords, and other settings to your Google account.
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Using Smart Switch:
- Download the Smart Switch app on your computer.
- Connect your device to the computer and follow the prompts.
Step-by-Step Instruction for Factory Reset
Once your data is backed up, you can proceed with the factory reset.
- Go to Settings on your Galaxy S21 Plus.
- Scroll down and tap on General Management.
- Select Reset.
- Tap on Factory Data Reset.
- Scroll down to see a brief description of what will be erased.
- Tap on Reset at the bottom of the screen.
- Confirm your action by selecting Delete all. If prompted, enter your PIN, pattern, or password.
- Your device will restart and begin the reset process.
Keep in mind that the process might take a few minutes. Once completed, your Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus will have the same software it had when it first came out of the box.
How to Hard Reset Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus
If your phone is unresponsive or you’re unable to access the settings menu, a hard reset might be your best option.
Performing a Hard Reset Using Hardware Buttons
- Power off your device completely. If it is unresponsive, hold the Power button until it turns off.
- Next, press and hold the Volume Up button and the Power button simultaneously.
- Release both buttons when the Samsung logo appears on the screen.
- Use the Volume Down button to scroll to the Wipe data/factory reset option in the recovery menu.
- Press the Power button to select it.
- Use the Volume buttons to highlight Yes, then press the Power button to confirm.
- Once the reset is complete, select Reboot system now.
This method is useful if your phone is stuck or malfunctioning.
Post-Reset Setup
After completing either a factory reset or a hard reset, your Galaxy S21 Plus will require some setup before you can use it again.
Initial Setup Process
- Choose your preferred language.
- Connect to a Wi-Fi network.
- Sign in with your Google Account or Samsung Account.
- Restore your apps and data from your backup (if applicable).
- Set up biometric security like fingerprint or face recognition if desired.
After you have completed these steps, your phone will be as good as new.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While resetting your Galaxy S21 Plus can solve many problems, you may still encounter issues post-reset. Some common troubleshooting steps include:
1. Software Update
- Regularly updating your device can prevent issues. Go to Settings > Software update > Download and install.
2. Check for App Issues
- If specific apps are causing problems, try clearing the app cache. Go to Settings > Apps, select the app, and tap Storage > Clear Cache.
3. Safe Mode
- Boot your device in Safe Mode to identify problematic apps. Press and hold the Power button, then tap and hold the Power off option. Choose Safe Mode when prompted. If the issues disappear in this mode, uninstallation of recent apps may be necessary.
Summary
Resetting your Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus can significantly improve its performance, fix persistent issues, and clear up space. Whether you opt for a soft reset for minor problems or a factory reset for a fresh start, understanding the process is crucial for maintaining your device’s health.
Choosing the right reset method is essential for achieving the desired outcome, and always remember to back up your data to prevent any loss. Stay informed about your phone’s capabilities, and don’t hesitate to reach out for further assistance if you experience difficulties.
By following this guide, you have the knowledge to reset your Galaxy S21 Plus effectively. Stay connected, stay updated, and enjoy your smartphone experience!
What are the different types of resets available for the Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus offers multiple reset options to cater to various needs. The primary types are the soft reset, which is used for troubleshooting minor issues, and the factory reset, which restores the device to its original settings by deleting all data. Additionally, there’s the network reset option, which addresses connectivity issues by resetting Wi-Fi, mobile data, and Bluetooth settings.
A soft reset is quite simple; you just need to restart the device, which can resolve temporary glitches without affecting your data. On the other hand, a factory reset is more drastic and is typically recommended before selling or giving away your device. It’s essential to back up any important data before performing a factory reset, as this process will erase everything.
How do I back up my data before performing a factory reset?
Backing up your data is crucial before performing a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus. One of the easiest ways to do this is by using Samsung Cloud, which allows you to back up your photos, contacts, messages, and more. Simply go to “Settings,” select “Accounts and backup,” then tap on “Back up data” to choose what you’d like to save.
Alternatively, you can use Google Drive for backups. This involves uploading your files and documents to your Google account, ensuring they are safe even after a reset. After the backup process is complete, verify that all crucial data has been saved successfully. This precaution will help you restore everything without any hassle after the reset.
How can I perform a factory reset on my Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus?
To perform a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus, begin by heading to the “Settings” app on your device. Scroll down and select “General management,” then tap on “Reset.” Here, you will see various options, and you should choose “Factory data reset.” This will provide you with information regarding what data will be erased.
After reviewing the details, scroll down and tap “Reset.” You might need to enter your PIN or password to confirm your identity. Finally, select “Delete all” to initiate the factory reset. The device will restart and begin the reset process, which may take a few minutes. Once completed, your Galaxy S21 Plus will return to its original setup screen.
What should I do if my Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus is unresponsive during a reset?
If your Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus becomes unresponsive during a reset, try performing a soft reset to reboot the device. To do this, simultaneously press and hold the Volume Down and Power buttons for about 10 seconds until the device powers off. This can help resolve glitches that might cause the phone to freeze.
After the soft reset, your phone should restart normally. If it continues to be unresponsive or if you’re still experiencing issues performing the reset, consider seeking assistance from Samsung’s customer service or visiting an authorized service center. They can help diagnose any underlying problems that may be preventing you from performing a reset.
Will a factory reset delete all my data and apps?
Yes, performing a factory reset on your Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus will erase all data, apps, and settings, restoring the device to its original factory state. This includes all personal information, photos, music, contacts, and any apps that you might have downloaded. It is crucial to have a backup of your important data before proceeding with the factory reset to avoid permanent loss.
After the reset, you will need to set up your device as if it were new. This includes signing in with your Google account and reinstalling any apps you wish to keep. To make the restoration process easier, consider taking advantage of the backup features in Samsung Cloud or Google Drive to quickly restore your data to the device.
Can I reset my Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus remotely?
Yes, you can reset your Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus remotely using the Find My Mobile feature provided by Samsung. To use this option, ensure that you have registered your device with a Samsung account and that Find My Mobile is activated. You can access the feature by visiting the Find My Mobile website and logging in with your Samsung credentials.
Once logged in, select your device from the list of registered devices. Look for an option that allows you to erase your device remotely. Confirm your choice, and the factory reset process will commence. This is particularly useful if you have lost your device or if it has been stolen, as it helps protect your personal information from unauthorized access.