Hard Reset via Recovery — Samsung Galaxy S21 5G
Optimized for Galaxy S21 5G (Android 11, up to 4 major Android upgrades, One UI 7)
Factory Reset from Settings — Samsung Galaxy S21 5G
Optimized for Galaxy S21 5G (Android 11, up to 4 major Android upgrades, One UI 7)
Enter Recovery Mode — Samsung Galaxy S21 5G
Optimized for Galaxy S21 5G (Android 11, up to 4 major Android upgrades, One UI 7)
FRP Bypass (Google Lock) — Samsung Galaxy S21 5G
Optimized for Galaxy S21 5G (Android 11, up to 4 major Android upgrades, One UI 7)
Why reset your Samsung Galaxy S21 5G?
A hard reset on the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G fixes boot loops, forgotten PINs and persistent lag. The method above will wipe the device back to factory condition. Always back up your data first, as a reset cannot be undone.
Frequently asked questions
Will a hard reset delete everything on my Samsung Galaxy S21 5G?
Yes. A hard reset (also called a factory reset) erases all apps, photos, messages, and accounts, returning the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G to its out-of-box state. Back up anything you want to keep before starting.
Does resetting the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G remove the SIM lock or carrier lock?
No. A hard or factory reset only clears data and settings — it doesn't remove a carrier/SIM lock, which is tied to the device's IMEI at the network level. You'd need to contact your carrier for an unlock.
How long does a factory reset take on the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G?
Typically a few minutes, though it can take longer on older or heavily used devices as more stored data has to be wiped.
Will I need my Google account password after resetting the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G?
Yes, if Factory Reset Protection (FRP) is enabled. Android (and HarmonyOS 2.x devices with Google services) will ask for the last signed-in Google account after a reset — make sure you know that password first.
What is recovery mode on my Samsung Galaxy S21 5G?
Recovery mode is a stripped-down menu outside the normal operating system, used to wipe data or apply updates when the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G won't boot normally. See the Enter Recovery Mode section above for how to reach it on this device.
How do I format my Samsung Galaxy S21 5G?
"Formatting" and "factory resetting" mean the same thing for the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G — both erase all data and restore default settings. Use whichever method above matches your situation.
How do I reset my Samsung Galaxy S21 5G?
Use the Hard Reset method above if your Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is frozen or won't respond, or the Factory Reset method if the screen still works normally — both are covered step by step on this page.