SOLVED! Factory Reset Is Disabled By Server Policy

Overall, while performing a factory reset on Android is usually a straightforward affair, issues could still appear and “factory data reset is disabled by server policy” is a prime example. In most of the cases, the presence of antivirus applications is the root of the problem and the best solution is to change the app setting. Depending on the situation, you could take advantage of Recovery Mode to perform a factory reset as well. Continue reading to learn the way to restore your device to its original state. 

What Is Going On

On Android, a number of issues could prevent the execution of factory reset but regarding  “factory data reset is disabled by server policy”, you should consider these suspects:

• Antivirus applications.
• Server policy.

Approaches To The Situation 

Apply Changes To App Settings

In case you don’t know, many antivirus apps nowadays actively prevent the reset of devices as a precautionary measure. If you have a hard time performing a factory reset, it’s suggested that you change the settings of the antivirus app on your phone.  Different applications tend to have different ways to configure the settings and effects on the device operation so feel free to experiment. After you finish, restart your phone, perform a factory reset and see how things turn out.

Note: If the issue persists, you could uninstall your antivirus app, perform a factory reset and reinstall the app. 

Make Use Of Recovery Mode 

• Step 1: Press and hold the Power button then tap Power Off to turn off your phone. 
• Step 2: Press and hold Power and Volume Down buttons at the same time then let go of them as soon as the device vibrates. 
• Step 3: If you have yet to reach Recovery Mode, use Volume Up/Down buttons to bring up Recovery Mode in the Start screen and press the Power button. In the No command screen, press and hold the Power button then hit the Volume Up button. The moment you reach Recovery Mode, use Volume Up/Down buttons to navigate to wipe data/factory reset then press the Power button. Confirm your decision if prompted. 

Is It Possible To Restore Data Following A Factory Reset?

Assuming that you have created a backup before performing the factory reset, you should be able to restore data with relative ease. Here is what you should do: 

• Step 1: Open Settings, select Accounts and backup then choose Restore data. 
• Step 2: Hit the backup. 
• Step 3: Initiate the restoration of data. 

Does The IMEI Number Change After A Factory Reset?

To put it plainly, the IMEI numbers stay the same no matter how many times you reset your phone to factory configuration. International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) is a unique ID assigned to a smartphone for the purpose of tracking. That means IMEI numbers can never be changed, replaced, etc. 

If I Perform A Factory Reset, Will I Lose My Contacts?

Yes, you will lose all your contacts stored on your smartphone. That is why it’s essential to save your contacts by making a backup in advance. Backing up contacts to the cloud is always a solid choice but if you don’t have a stable Internet connection at the moment, back up your contacts using a SD card. Needless to say, you must take good care of the SD card as if it gets damaged, contacts you store on it would be lost. 

Could My Rooted Phone Become Unrooted Following A Factory Reset?

A factory reset only removes data people store on their smartphones so it won’t change the operating system. In the case that your phone is rooted, a factory reset won’t unroot it.