Situations when a mobile device begins to work unstable happen quite often, and owners of Samsung tablets are no exception. If your gadget freezes, slows down, or is blocked by a forgotten password, the most effective solution is often a complete return to its original state. The factory reset procedure deletes all user data, returning the system to the state it was in when purchased. Galaxy Tab A Factory reset deletes all user data, returning the system to the state it was in when purchased.
In this article we will examine in detail the two main ways to perform this operation: through the standard Android settings menu and through the Recovery mode. Each method has its own characteristics, and the choice depends on whether you have access to the system or whether the device is completely locked. It is important to understand that Factory Reset this is an irreversible process, so you need to approach it consciously and preparedly.
Before taking active action, it is necessary to assess the criticality of the stored information. If the tablet turns on and responds to touches, you have the opportunity to save important files. However, if the screen is black or the sensor is not working, you will have to use the hardware buttons. Let's take a detailed look at all the nuances of preparation and the process of clearing memory on series devices Tab A.
Preparing the device for a complete data reset
Before initiating the deletion of all data, it is critically important to create a backup copy of all valuable information. After completing the procedure, it will be impossible to restore deleted files without a previously created backup. This applies to photos, contacts, notes and installed applications. Make sure that you have synchronized your data with your account Google or copied it to an external storage device.
Battery charge plays a decisive role in the success of the operation. The process of formatting the internal memory requires energy, and if the tablet turns off in the middle of the procedure, it may damage the system files and require a service center to reflash the device. It is recommended to connect the charger and make sure that the charge level is at least 50-60%.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure you remember the password for your Google account. After the reset, the system will require authorization to confirm ownership of the device (FRP protection). Without this data, you will not be able to activate the tablet.
It is also worth disabling all third-party lock screens, if possible, and removing the microSD memory card if it is installed in the slot. Although a reset usually only affects internal memory, removing the card will prevent accidental formatting of external data or conflicts during a system reboot. Check if the Find My Device function is enabled, as this may complicate the unlocking process after cleaning.
☑️ Checklist before resetting
Method 1: Reset via the Android settings menu
The most secure and simplest method of performing a reset is available directly from the operating system interface. This option is suitable when the tablet functions normally, the screen responds to touches, and you can navigate the menus freely. The algorithm of actions may differ slightly depending on the version of Android (for example, Android 9, 10 or 11), but the general logic remains the same for the entire line Samsung Galaxy.
First, open the main application menu and find the icon Settings. In the list of parameters that opens, you need to scroll down to the section General settings or System. Here you will find an item responsible for managing memory and device status. In some firmware it is called Reset, in others - Archiving and reset.
After entering the appropriate section, select the option Reset data. The system will display a warning message listing the data that will be deleted. Please review this list carefully. If you are confident in your decision, click the button Reset settings or Delete everything. At the last stage, you will need to enter a digital PIN code, pattern or screen unlock password to confirm the owner's authority.
Before pressing the final reset button, take a photo of the list of important Wi-Fi and Bluetooth settings on another phone to quickly restore connection after cleaning.
The device will automatically reboot and begin the cleaning process. The screen may go dark and light up several times, and a logo Samsung with a progress bar may appear. Do not interfere with the tablet's operation at this time. After completing the procedure, the tablet will turn on as new, prompting you to select a language and connect to the Wi-Fi network.
Method 2: Hard Reset via Recovery mode
If the tablet does not turn on, is stuck on the screensaver or you have forgotten the unlock password, the only way out is to use the recovery mode Recovery Mode. This method allows you to perform a hardware reset, bypassing the operating system. To enter this mode, use a combination of physical buttons located on the device body.
It is important to know that on different models of the series Tab A button combinations may differ. Older models with a physical Home button (such as the Tab A 2016) use a combination of the volume and power buttons. On new models without a Home button (for example, Tab A 2019, 2021), the algorithm often requires connecting the device with a cable to the computer before pressing buttons due to Android security features.
Follow these steps to enter recovery mode:
- 🔌 Turn off the tablet completely. If it freezes, hold down the power button for 10 seconds until it turns off.
- 🔘 Press the desired combination of buttons (usually
Volume up+Power, sometimes with the addition of a buttonHome). - 💻 For new models: connect the USB cable to the turned off tablet, and the other end to the turned on computer, then hold down the buttons.
- 🚀 When the Samsung logo appears, release the power button, but continue to hold the volume button until the Recovery menu appears.
In the menu Recovery is controlled by the volume buttons (up/down to move) and the power button (to confirm the selection). The menu item may look like text, but often these are just commands. You need to find the line wipe data/factory reset. Move the cursor to it and press the power button.
⚠️ Attention: In Recovery mode, the touch screen does not work exclusively with mechanical buttons. unnecessary.
The system will ask for confirmation, usually asking you to select Yes or Factory data reset. After completing the process, which will take a few seconds, select Reboot system now. The tablet will reboot. initial system setup.
What to do if the Recovery menu does not appear?
If the button combination does not work, try connecting the tablet to the PC via a USB cable before pressing the buttons. This is a security requirement for Android 11 and higher on Samsung devices. Also make sure that the cable is working and transmits data, and not just charges.
Comparison of reset methods and their features
Both methods considered lead to the same result - completely clearing the user memory section. However, the scenarios for their use and the risks are significantly different. Understanding these differences will help you choose the best way to solve your problem and avoid unnecessary complications.
A soft reset through the settings is the preferred option, since it is controlled by the operating system. In this case, there is less chance of file system errors, and the device correctly closes all background processes before deleting data. In addition, this method allows you to check the status of accounts in advance and disable unnecessary services.
Hard Reset via Recovery is “heavy artillery”. It is necessary in emergency cases, but carries slightly greater risks, especially if the power supply process is interrupted. makes it the only way to access the device if the password is lost, but it does not bypass Google FRP protection.
| Feature | Reset via Settings | Hard Reset (Recovery) |
|---|---|---|
| System access required | Yes | No |
| Sensor operation | Required | Not required |
| Risk of software damage | Minimal | Medium (when power is turned off) |
| Bypass screen password | No (password is needed to enter the menu) | Yes (password is deleted) |
Soft reset is safer and preferable, but Hard Reset is the only option if you forget your password or the system freezes.
FRP protection and activation after reset
Modern Android devices are equipped with a security system FRP (Factory Reset Protection). This function is designed to protect against theft: if an attacker steals the tablet and tries to reset it to factory settings, he will not be able to use it.
After completing the reset procedure, at the first boot, the system will require you to enter the login and password for the Google account that was synchronized with the device before cleaning. This is a required step. If you enter incorrect information or do not remember it, activating the tablet will not be possible using standard methods.
Owners should make sure in advance that they remember their account information. If you bought the tablet secondhand and do not know the previous owner, a reset can turn the device into a “brick” until the correct data is entered. If you lose access to your account, you must use the password recovery procedure through the Google website on another device.
⚠️ Attention: Bypassing FRP protection using third-party software is a violation of the terms of use and may be considered an attempt to activate a stolen device. Use only your credentials.
Possible problems and ways to solve them
Despite the simplicity of the procedure, users sometimes encounter difficulties. One of the common problems is getting stuck on the logo Samsung after a reset. This may indicate that the system partition is damaged or there is not enough space for temporary files during the process. In this case, it is recommended to repeat the Hard Reset procedure via Recovery Mode.
Another problem is an endless reboot (bootloop). If your tablet keeps turning off and on, there may be a conflicting system update or a corrupted cache. Try selecting the item Wipe cache partition in the Recovery menu before performing a full reset. This will clear temporary system files without affecting personal data and may resolve the error.
If the touch screen does not work correctly or is delayed after a reset, it may be due to a calibration failure. In most cases, the problem is resolved after a couple of reboots. However, if the defects persist, there may be a hardware problem not related to the software.
In rare cases, the device may request a software update immediately after a reset. Don't ignore this requirement. Installing the latest firmware version eliminates known vulnerabilities and bugs that may have caused the initial need for a reset. Go to Settings → Software update and check for new versions.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Will information be deleted from the memory card when resetting?
By default, resetting to factory settings only affects the internal memory of the device. The data on the microSD card remains intact. However, in some versions of the software, a checkmark may appear to “Empty memory card” or “Format SD card”. Read the confirmation screen carefully and uncheck this box if you want to save files on the card.
How long does the reset process take?
Usually the procedure takes from 5 to 15 minutes. The time depends on the amount of accumulated information, the speed of the internal memory and the processor model. The first boot after a reset always takes longer than usual, as the system optimizes applications and creates new configuration files.
Is it possible to interrupt the reset if the tablet is frozen?
Forcibly interrupting the process (by removing the battery or holding the power for a long time) is highly not recommended, as this can damage the file system. If the tablet does not respond for more than 30 minutes, try a forced reboot, but be prepared for the fact that you may need to reflash it through your computer.
Will this reset the Android version to an older version?
No, a factory reset returns the device to the "as from the store" state for the currently installed firmware version. If you updated Android to the latest version, after the reset the same version will remain, just without your personal data and settings.
What should you do if, after resetting, the tablet requires the password for the previous lock screen?
This is normal security behavior. After a reboot (but before a hard reset), the system may require the last used password, PIN, or pattern to verify the owner's identity before performing critical actions. Enter the data that was used before the procedure began.