
Yes, a factory reset can remove most viruses — but not all. While it erases user data and restores your device to its original state, sophisticated malware like firmware-rooted threats or encrypted bootkits often survive. For example, Symantec’s found that 35% of consumers faced malware attacks last year, with many requiring more than a reset to fully remediate. This guide clarifies when factory resets work, provides device-specific steps, and explores advanced solutions for stubborn infections.
Does Factory Reset Remove Virus?
A factory reset restores a device’s operating system to its original state, deleting user-installed apps, files, and settings. While this process removes most common viruses, it isn’t foolproof. Malware embedded in firmware, such as BIOS/UEFI-based rootkits, or lurking in encrypted partitions, often survives a reset. For example, the 2024 “BlackLotus” bootkit demonstrated how attackers could bypass secure boot mechanisms on Windows systems, persisting even after a factory reset (Kaspersky Lab, 2024). Thus, while resets work for typical infections, advanced threats demand more targeted approaches.
Understanding How Factory Resets Work
Modern factory resets vary by operating system but generally involve reinstalling the OS and wiping user data. On Android, this means erasing the /data partition, while iOS uses a cryptographic “erase” to render data unrecoverable. Windows and macOS take different approaches: Windows 11’s “Cloud Download” option in Settings > Recovery reinstalls the OS from Microsoft servers, whereas macOS Internet Recovery Mode fetches a clean copy of macOS. Crucially, most resets don’t touch firmware or hidden partitions, leaving room for malware to hide.
Limitations of Factory Resets in Virus Removal
Persistent threats like rootkits, bootkits, and firmware malware (e.g., the “Thunderstrike” attack targeting Macs) often evade traditional resets. Additionally, restoring data from infected backups can reintroduce malware. In 2025, ransomware like “LockBit 4.0” has adopted firmware hooks to maintain persistence, requiring specialized tools for removal (Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency, 2025). Users must also consider cross-device synchronization: a virus on a smartphone could reinfect a laptop via synced cloud folders.
How to Perform a Factory Reset Correctly
Pre-Reset Steps
Back Up Securely: Use offline storage like encrypted USB drives or air-gapped external SSDs to avoid backing up malware.
Disconnect Cloud Services: Sign out of iCloud, Google Drive, or OneDrive to prevent automatic sync during the reset.
Ensure Power Stability: Plug in the device or ensure at least 50% battery to avoid interruptions.
Step-by-Step Guides
Android: For Samsung Galaxy devices, hold Volume Up + Power, then select Wipe Data/Factory Reset in Recovery Mode. Google Pixel users can use the Erase All Data option in Settings > System.
iOS: Navigate to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings.
Windows: Open Settings > System > Recovery > Reset PC and choose Cloud Download for a clean install.
macOS: Boot into Internet Recovery Mode (Cmd + Option + R), open Disk Utility to erase the drive, then reinstall macOS.
Post-Reset Actions
Scan Backups: Use tools like Malwarebytes to check backups before restoring.
Update Immediately: Install the latest OS patches and enable automatic updates.
Monitor Activity: Watch for unusual behavior like sudden battery drain or unknown processes.
Alternatives to Factory Resets for Virus Removal
Bootable Antivirus Tools: Kaspersky Rescue Disk scans and removes malware before the OS loads.
Manual Removal in Safe Mode: Advanced users can delete malicious files via Windows Safe Mode or Terminal commands on macOS.
Professional Services: For firmware-level infections, companies like DriveSavers offer hardware-level remediation.
Signs a Virus Survived the Factory Reset
Performance Issues: Overheating or rapid battery depletion.
Ghost Apps: Pre-installed bloatware reinstalling suspicious programs.
Network Anomalies: Unexplained data usage or browser redirects.
Best Practices to Avoid Future Infections
Install AI-Driven Antivirus: Tools like Norton 360 Deluxe leverage machine learning to detect zero-day threats.
Avoid Sideloading: Stick to official app stores; 78% of mobile malware in 2025 originated from third-party sources (McAfee, 2025).
Enable Firmware Updates: Manufacturers like Dell and HP now offer automated UEFI updates via Windows Update.
The Bottom Line
A factory reset effectively removes most viruses but falls short against firmware-level or backup-borne malware. In 2025, combining resets with secure backups, proactive antivirus tools, and firmware updates offers the strongest defense. If infections persist, consult a professional to address hardware-layer threats. Stay vigilant – cybersecurity is as much about prevention as it is about remediation.