Will factory reset erase all data?

When your device is slow, factory reset can help improve speed. This is also a good thing to do when you want to sell or dispose of your device to prevent others from accessing your personal information. However, does factory reset really wipe data? Results will depend on the device, so this article provides information to help you know what to expect in your case and how to back up your data so you don’t actually lose them. Refer to the content below to get answers to your important questions.

Table of Contents

What does a factory reset remove?

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Factory reset erases everything that isn’t pre-installed on the device. Those data will really be wiped clean. You don’t need to worry though. You can back up all your data before choosing to factory reset so it won’t be lost. However, you should note that factory reset will erase all photos, videos, and messages on the device. ^{[1] X Research Source}

This will also delete any apps, games, contacts, and file types that you add to your device.
The goal of factory reset is to get the device to function as it did when it was purchased. You must do this before you sell or dispose of the device. You probably don’t want others to see your data.

Will I lose all my files when I factory reset my Windows computer?

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It is possible, but Windows lets you choose to keep or delete the file. This feature saves you the stress of choosing to factory reset. While viewing the main menu, you can select “Recovery”. This takes you to the “Reset” menu where you can choose “Keep my files” or “Remove everything”. ^{[2] X Research Source}

If you want to get rid of the computer, choose erase everything. As such, others cannot access your personal information.
Perhaps you want to do a factory reset to improve the speed and functionality of your computer. In this case, you can choose to keep the file. Other parts will be reset to make the computer run faster.
Whichever option you choose, just remember to back up all the documents and photos you need to keep.

What happens when I factory reset my Mac?

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Factory reset will erase all personal data and files. It’s really a lot. However, you don’t need to stress! You can back everything up before doing a factory reset. Remember to save any data that can be deleted, including files, photos, videos, and any other programs you have installed on your computer. ^{[3] X Research Sources}

To back everything up, you can save your data using a cloud storage service, a USB stick, or an external hard drive.
Factory reset is very simple. You just need to go to macOS Recovery (Restore macOS), then follow the steps to erase data. This is important to do before you want to sell or dispose of your Mac so that no one can access your data.

What do I need to do to factory reset my iPhone?

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You will lose your contacts, photos and installed apps. No problem, you can back up your data first. When you factory reset your iPhone, it will work as it did when you first bought it. That means you will lose your personal data on your phone. Besides contacts, photos, and any installed apps, factory reset will also delete: ^{[4] X Research Source}

Video
Call history
Message
Browsing history
Calendar

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Back up your iPhone first as you will also lose all your data. A basic backup will be a lifesaver when you need to reset your phone. Send all your photos, contacts, etc. to your iCloud account. Open your phone’s settings and select the iCloud icon. You can choose all the data to send to the cloud. ^{[5] X Research Sources}

When should I factory reset my iPhone?

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Restore factory settings before you sell or dispose of your iPhone to erase personal data. When you’re ready to upgrade or want to ditch your iPhone, it’s important to erase all of your personal data. You certainly don’t want anyone to access your passwords, photos, or contacts. ^{[6] X Research Source}

Factory reset is a simple affair. Just select the settings icon, select “General” and select “Erase all content and settings”.

Will factory reset erase all data on my Android phone?

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Yes, all personal data on your phone is wiped. Factory resetting your Android phone will make it work like it did when you first bought it. That means your contacts, photos, messages, and any installed apps are deleted. You need to back up all your data so you don’t have to worry about losing family photos or business partner contact information. ^{[7] X Research Sources}

Resetting an Android device is very simple. When you open the Settings app, you’ll select System, Reset options, and select Erase all data.
It is recommended that you reset your phone when you want to sell or donate it so that no one can access your personal information.

Should I do a factory reset on my PS4?

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This is what to do when the game is constantly interrupted. Surely you will be very frustrated when you are playing a new game when your PS4 stops working. This situation often occurs when the game console is old, and you will certainly be very annoyed. Fortunately, a factory reset can get the console working properly. You just need to back up all your data before doing a factory reset. ^{[8] X Research Sources}

Save games and data to a cloud or USB storage service to keep everything you want to save. If you’re a PlayStation Plus member, you can choose to automatically back up all your data. Otherwise, select Application Saved Data in Settings and follow the onscreen instructions for a full backup to USB.

Will factory reset erase all data on Xbox?

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Yes, all games and information are deleted. When you choose to do a factory reset, the device will be like new again. That means all saved game and account information is lost. The good news is that the data will automatically back up when the device is connected to the Xbox network. If you haven’t been online in a while, make sure your console is connected to the internet before you choose to do a factory reset. ^{[9] X Research Source}

To reset your console, simply open Settings and select Conspe info. Here, select Reset your conspe. You will have the option to reset and erase all data. Select this option when you want to quit Xbox.
Choose the option to reset and keep the game if you just want to increase the speed of your device.

Advice

Always follow the instructions on the device.
Back up your data regularly so you don’t lose anything important.

Steps