Does Factory Resetting My Device Remove Viruses?

When your device starts acting up, or you notice strange behavior, it’s natural to wonder whether a virus or malware is the culprit.

A popular option that comes to mind is a factory reset. It’s a quick way to reset the device back to its original, factory settings — but will it really remove the viruses?

In this post, we’ll explore whether factory resets can effectively rid your device of viruses, what types of malware might survive, and how to protect your device from future threats.

Also Read: iPhone Stuck In DFU Mode, How To Fix it

What is a Factory Reset?

A factory reset is essentially the "nuclear option" for any software-related issues you’re facing with your device.

When you perform a factory reset, your device wipes all the data, apps, settings, and files, restoring it to the state it was in when it first left the factory.

In theory, this should get rid of any viruses that have infiltrated your system since it removes almost all traces of the data and apps you’ve accumulated.

So, if you’re battling a virus, a factory reset might seem like the perfect solution to clean your device. But does it work on all viruses?.

How Factory Reset Works Against Viruses?

A factory reset can be an effective method for removing viruses from your device, and understanding how it works helps explain why.

When you perform a factory reset, it completely wipes out all files, apps, and settings on your device. Since most viruses are embedded within these files or applications, they are typically erased during the reset process.

The device's operating system (OS) is reinstalled from scratch, undoing any modifications that the malware may have made.

This restoration essentially gives you a fresh start, returning your device to its original factory settings and reversing any changes caused by malicious software.

For many types of malware, this process is enough to eliminate the threat.

There are more advanced forms of malware that can be more persistent, sometimes hiding in areas that a factory reset cannot reach, making them trickier to deal with.

How Factory Reset Handles Different Virus Types?

Not all viruses are created equal. Some are more persistent than others. Let’s break down how a factory reset fares against various types of malware.

Malware Type	Effectiveness of Factory Reset
Viruses	High: Most common viruses are easily removed.
Spyware	High: Spyware is usually contained in apps or files that are wiped during a reset.
Ransomware	High: The malware itself will be removed, but any encrypted files will remain inaccessible.
Rootkits	Moderate: Rootkits hide deep within the system and may not be fully removed by a reset. Additional tools may be needed.
Boot Sector Viruses	Low: These viruses infect the boot process of the device, making them hard to remove. Specialized tools or reinstallation may be necessary.
Firmware-Level Malware	Low: These viruses can embed themselves in your device's firmware, making it impossible to remove with a factory reset alone. They may require hardware replacement or advanced software tools.

Why Some Viruses Survive a Factory Reset?

While a factory reset removes most viruses, some malware can survive.

Rootkits embed deep in your system’s core, making them hard to detect and requiring specialized tools for removal.

Boot sector viruses infect the startup process, which a reset may not reach.

Firmware-level malware hides in your device’s firmware, often undetectable and difficult to remove—sometimes needing hardware replacement to eliminate completely.

What to Do After a Factory Reset to Prevent Future Infections?

While a factory reset can remove most viruses, it’s crucial to take steps to prevent future infections.

A reset may clean your device, but if you return to risky habits, you could end up right back where you started.

Here are a few steps you should take after performing a factory reset to keep your device safe:

Install Antivirus Software: After resetting your device, it’s essential to install reliable antivirus software. A good antivirus program will help protect your device from new threats and perform regular scans for any potential issues.
Avoid Sketchy Websites and Downloads: Many viruses are spread through unsafe websites and shady downloads. Stay cautious when browsing the internet, and avoid downloading files from untrusted sources.
Regular Software Updates: Make sure your device’s operating system and apps are always up to date. Software updates often include patches that address security vulnerabilities, so keeping everything updated reduces the chances of being infected by malware.
Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Using weak or reused passwords makes it easier for hackers to gain access to your device. Always choose strong, unique passwords for each account.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): 2FA adds an extra layer of security to your accounts, making it harder for malicious actors to break in.
Be Cautious of Email Links and Attachments: Phishing attacks are a common way for malware to sneak onto your device. Be careful when clicking links in unsolicited emails or opening attachments from unknown senders.
Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) hides your online activity, preventing hackers and malware from tracking or intercepting your data.

Can a Factory Reset Remove All Types of Malware?

While a factory reset is a powerful tool, it’s not foolproof. As we mentioned earlier, certain types of malware, such as rootkits and firmware-level infections, can survive a reset and continue to wreak havoc on your device.

If you’re dealing with an especially stubborn virus that survives a factory reset, your best option is to use specialized malware removal tools. You can also seek professional help from a technician who specializes in removing complex malware infections.

Can You Recover Data After a Factory Reset?

One thing to keep in mind is that a factory reset wipes all your data from the device. This includes apps, files, settings, and personal data. If you want to keep important data, such as photos, videos, and documents, you should back up your files before performing the reset.

After the reset, you can restore your data from a clean backup. Just be careful: if your backup contains infected files, you could reinfect your device. Always scan your backup for malware before restoring any files.

Takeaway

Factory resetting your device can be an effective way to remove most viruses and malware, especially common ones like spyware, ransomware, and general viruses.

However, more advanced threats like rootkits, boot sector viruses, and firmware-level malware can survive a reset and may require additional tools or professional assistance.

To ensure your device stays safe after a reset, be sure to install antivirus software, avoid risky behaviors, and adopt good security habits.

With the right precautions, you can keep your device free from viruses and other malicious software.

Also Read: How to Factory Reset a Lenovo Laptop: A Comprehensive Guide