Resetting the tablet to Android to factory settings - radical, but effective a way to restore a device to its former performance, fix software glitches, or prepare a gadget for sale. The procedure deletes all user data, applications and settings, returning the system to its original state, as after purchase. However, the wrong approach can lead to the loss of important files or even “bricking” the device.

In this article you will find Three official reset methods (through the settings menu, Recovery Mode and ADB), as well as tips on saving data and eliminating common errors. The instructions are adapted for tablets Samsung Galaxy Tab, Lenovo Tab, Huawei MediaPad and other popular models based on Android 10–14. If your device is running an older version (for example Android 7–9), the interface may differ slightly, but the principles remain the same.

Why you may need a factory reset

A factory reset is not the first aid for any problems, but a last resort. It is advisable to use it in the following cases:

  • 🐢 The tablet slows down, often freezes or reboots spontaneously - even after clearing the cache and deleting unnecessary applications.
  • 🦠 The device is infected with a virus that cannot be removed by antiviruses (for example, Trojan.AndroidOS.Loapi or AdDisplay.MobiDash).
  • 🔒 You forgot the pattern, PIN code or unlock password, and the function Find My Device is disabled.
  • 📦 Before selling or transferring the tablet to another user - to delete personal data (photos, messages, accounts).
  • 🔄 After an unsuccessful system update, when the tablet does not turn on or malfunctions.

It is important to understand that resetting does not help. if there are hardware faults: a broken screen, a non-functioning battery or a damaged motherboard. In such cases, repairs are required at a service center.

⚠️ Attention: On some tablets with the Android 12+ function Factory Reset Protection (FRP) after the reset, you may need to enter the account data Googlethat was linked before the reset. If you do not remember the login/password, it will be difficult to unlock the device.
📊 For what reason do you want to reset your tablet?
It slows down and lags
Forgot your password
Virus or malware
Preparing for sale
Other reason

Preparing for a reset: how to save important data

Reset to factory settings will delete everything: photos, videos, contacts, messages, installed applications and their data (for example, progress in games) till start the procedure:

  • 📁 Create a backup copy on Google Drive (Settings → Google → Backup). This will save contacts, calendars, some application settings and SMS (if the feature is enabled).
  • 🖼️ Copy photos and videos to your computer or external drive. Use a wired connection (MTP mode) or cloud services (Google Photos, Yandex Disk).
  • 🎮 Save game and application data. Some games (for example, Clash of Clans or Brawl Stars) link progress to your account Google Play or Supercell ID —make sure you are authorized.
  • 📞 Export your contact list to a file .vcf via the app Contact.

If the tablet does not turn on or is locked, try connecting it to the computer in Fastboot mode (if supported) and copy the data using ADB or specialized utilities like Dr.Fone. However, this requires technical skills.

☑️ Checklist before. reset

Done: 0 / 5

Do not rely only on cloud backups - they do not always restore data completely. For example, Google Photos can compress images, and some applications (for example, WhatsApp) require a separate backup. chats.

Method 1: Reset through the settings menu (the easiest)

If the tablet turns on and you remember the unlock password, this method is the safest and fastest. The instructions are suitable for most models on Android 8–14:

  1. Open Settings (gear icon in the application menu or notification panel).
  2. Go to section System (on some tablets - General settings or Additional settings).
  3. Select Reset (or Reset settings, Restore and reset).
  4. Tap on Reset data or Reset to factory settings.
  5. Read the warning and confirm the action by entering the PIN code or pattern (if required).
  6. Click Delete everything or Reset the tablet.

The process will take 5-15 minutes. The tablet will reboot and you will see the initial setup screen, as after purchase.

⚠️ Attention: On tablets Samsung with One UI the path may be different: Settings → Device maintenance → Reset. On Huawei (EMUI) look for Settings → System and updates → Reset.
💡

If the reset menu has the "Clear memory card" option, disable it so as not to lose files on microSD (if installed).

Method 2: Reset via Recovery Mode (if the tablet does not turn on)

If the tablet is locked, does not respond to touches or is stuck on the logo, use recovery mode (Recovery Mode). This method works even without access to the main system, but requires knowledge of the button combinations for your model.

General instructions:

  1. Turn off the tablet (press and hold the power button for 10-15 seconds if it freezes).
  2. Press the button combination to log in Recovery. For most tablets this is:
    • Samsung Galaxy Tab: Volume up + Power (hold for 10 seconds).
    • Lenovo Tab, Xiaomi Pad: Volume up + Volume down + Power.
    • Huawei MediaPad: Volume up + Power (release after vibration Power, but continue to hold Volume up).
  • When the logo or menu appears Recovery, release the volume buttons to navigate. and the power button to select.
  • Select item Wipe data/factory reset (on some devices - Clear eMMC or Reset to factory settings).
  • Confirm the action by selecting Yes — Delete all user data.
  • Once completed, select Reboot system now.

    • If menu Recovery in Chinese or with unreadable characters, focus on the order of items: usually Wipe data the third or fourth from the top.

    What to do if Recovery Mode does not open?

    If the button combination does not work, try:

    - Connect the tablet to charge for 30 minutes (a low battery may block the entry to Recovery).

    - Use another combination (for example, for Asus ZenPad this Volume Down + Power).

    - On some models Samsung you must first hold Volume up + Bixby + Powerthen release Power when the logo appears.

    Tablet model Combination for Recovery Features
    Samsung Galaxy Tab S6/S7/S8 Volume up + Power Release the buttons when the logo appears Samsung.
    Lenovo Tab P11/M10 Volume up + Volume down + Power Hold until menu appears Android on the back.
    Huawei MatePad 10/11 Volume up + Power After vibration, release Powerbut continue to hold Volume up.
    Xiaomi Pad 5/6 Volume up + Power In the Recovery menu, select the language (volume buttons to switch).

    Method 3: Reset via ADB (for experienced users)

    If standard methods do not work (for example, the sensor does not respond and the buttons volumes are broken), you can reset via Android Debug Bridge (ADB). This method requires a computer, a USB cable and USB debugging enabled.

    Step-by-step guide:

    1. Install ADB and Fastboot on your computer.
    2. Enable on the tablet USB debugging (Settings → About phone → Build number - tap 7 times, then return to Settings → System → For developers → USB debugging).
    3. Connect the tablet to the computer and confirm trust in the device.
    4. Open the command line (cmd) in the folder with adb.exe and enter: 
      adb devices

      Make sure your device is shown in the list.

    5. Perform a reset with the command: 
      adb shell recovery --wipe_data

      Or (for newer versions of Android):

      adb shell am broadcast -a android.intent.action.MASTER_CLEAR

      6. If USB debugging was not enabled in advance, this method will not work. In this case, the only option left is Recovery Mode or contacting a service center.

      💡

      Resetting via ADB is the only way to bypass the screen lock if USB debugging was enabled BEFORE the lock. Otherwise, you will need to unlock through your Google account or service center.

      Common mistakes and how to avoid them

      Even when following instructions, users often encounter problems. Here are the most common errors and their solutions:

      • 🔋 The tablet ran out of power during the reset → Connect it to the charger and wait until at least 30% charge before trying again. Resetting when the battery is low may damage system files.
      • 🔒 After resetting requires a Google account (FRP) → Enter the account information that was linked before the reset. If you don't remember your password, recover it via Google recovery page.
      • 📱 Tablet stuck on logo after reset → Try re-entering Recovery Mode and select Wipe cache partition, then reboot. If it doesn’t help, a flashing is required.
      • 🛠️ The sensor does not work in Recovery Mode → Use the volume buttons to navigate and the power button to select. On some tablets (for example, Samsung), the sensor in Recovery is inactive.

    If the tablet does not turn on after a reset or gives an error No command in Recovery, it may be damaged firmware In this case, only flashing via Fastboot or Odín (for Samsung).

    ⚠️) will help. Attention: On tablets with an unlocked bootloader (unlocked bootloader), a reset may lead to loss of data in the partition. /data irrevocably, even if you tried to restore them. Always make a backup in advance.

    What to do after the reset

    After a successful reset, the tablet will return to its original settings. Here is what is recommended to do first:

    1. Setting up language and region: Select the desired language on the welcome screen. Android 12+ You may need to connect to Wi-Fi at this stage.
    2. Login to Google Account: Use the same account as before the reset (if enabled FRP). If the tablet was purchased second-hand, ask the previous owner to delete his account via Google device management page.
    3. Data recovery:
      • Photos and videos - copy them back from your computer or from the cloud.
      • Contacts - synchronize via Google account or import from a file .vcf.
      • Applications - install from Google Play or restore from a backup.
  • System update: Check for updates in Settings → System → Software update.
  • Security settings: Set a PIN code or pattern, enable encryption (if supported).

    • Do not rush to install all applications at once - first check how the tablet works “in its pure form”. If the brakes disappeared, the problem was in the software. If not, hardware diagnostics may be required.

    💡

    After resetting, disable automatic installation of applications from Google Play (Settings → Google → Automatic application updates → “Never”). This will prevent unnecessary apps from downloading.

    FAQ: Frequently asked questions about resetting an Android tablet

    Is it possible to reset a tablet without losing data?

    No, resetting to factory settings always deletes user data. However, you can try alternative methods:

    • Clear application cache (Settings → Applications → Select application → Storage → Clear cache).
    • Delete unnecessary files manually via Settings → Storage.
    • Use apps for optimization (for example, CCleaner or Files by Google).

    If the goal is to speed up the tablet, try disabling animation in Settings → For developers (install Window animation, Transition animation i Animation duration in Off).

    Will it reset Factory settings Wi-Fi password?

    Yes, resetting deletes all saved Wi-Fi networks and their passwords. After the reset, you will have to re-enter passwords to connect to wireless networks. If you do not remember your passwords, save them in advance:

    1. Open Settings → Wi-Fi.
    2. Tap on the connected network and select Share (you will need to enter the device PIN code).
    3. Copy or take a photo of the QR code with network data.
    How to reset the tablet if you forgot the pattern key?

    There are several ways:

    1. Through your Google account (if synchronization is enabled): after 5 unsuccessful attempts input button Forgot your pattern key?will appear. Click it and log in to your Google account.
    2. Via Find My Device:
      • Go to Find My Device page.
      • Select a locked tablet.
      • Click Erase data (this will reset to factory settings).
  • Via Recovery Mode (if the previous methods do not work) - the instructions are given above in the "Method 2" section.

    • If USB debugging was enabled before blocking, you can try to remove the key via ADB command: 

    adb shell rm /data/system/gesture.key

    However, this will only work on older versions of Android (up to 5.0).

    Reset will remove viruses from the tablet?

    Yes, resetting to factory settings removes all user data, including viruses and malware that were installed manually or through infected files. However:

    • If a virus has entered system files (for example, through a vulnerability in the firmware), it may remain. In this case, only flashing will help.
    • After the reset, install a reliable antivirus (for example, Malwarebytes or Bitdefender) and scan downloaded files.
    • Avoid installing applications from unverified sources (outside Google Play).
    Is it possible to cancel the reset after it has started?

    No, after confirming the reset, the process cannot be interrupted or canceled. Interrupting (for example, by removing the battery or turning off the power) can lead to:

    • Damage to system files and “bricking” the tablet.
    • Loss of data without the possibility of recovery.
    • The need to flash the firmware via Fastboot or Odín.

    If the reset has already started, wait for it to complete (even if the process takes longer than usual).