factory reset
Restore original settings
A factory reset restores a device to its original settings, erasing all user data and customizations.
The term comes from returning the device to the state it left the factory.
I did a factory reset on my phone before selling it.
Often a troubleshooting measure of last resort, or preparation for transferring ownership.
Cycle power intentionally
- restoreReturn to earlier state
- default settingsOriginal factory configuration
- firmwareHardware's permanent programming
- recovery modeEmergency startup configuration
initialization · system restore · reformat · reinstall · BIOS · UEFI · bootloader · troubleshooting
Rub to clean
- clearWithout obstruction or fog
- purgeEliminate unwanted elements
- deletionRemoval of content
- sanitizeCleanse of pathogens
erase · expunge · shred · degauss · data destruction · overwrite · clean install · remove
Record wiped clear
- new beginningChance to start again
- restartCommence anew
- renewalMaking current again
- do-overAnother chance given
starting over · blank slate · second chance · clearing out · new chapter
reboot
Cycle power intentionally
- restoreReturn to earlier state
- default settingsOriginal factory configuration
- firmwareHardware's permanent programming
recovery mode · initialization · system restore · reformat · reinstall · BIOS · UEFI · bootloader · troubleshooting · diagnostics
wipe
Rub to clean
sanitize · erase · expunge · shred · degauss · data destruction · overwrite · clean install · remove · obliterate
clean slate
Record wiped clear
- new beginningChance to start again
- restartCommence anew
- renewalMaking current again
do-over · starting over · blank slate · second chance · clearing out · new chapter
- renewalrenewal, reinvigoration, restart, reboot, fresh start
- fresh startfresh start, new beginning, clean slate, starting over, do-over
- settingssetting, default, settings, template, configure
- tech fixesfix, reboot, repair, software patch, system update
- default settingsbaseline, out of box, stock, unchanged, unmodified
- firmwareBIOS, bootloader, UEFI, ROM, EPROM
factory resetdata retention
Maintaining saved information
data preservation · full backup · backup · archiving · save state
factory resetcustomization
Modification to individual preference
personalization · upgrade · modification · configuration · setup