How to Factory Reset an Apple TV

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

There may be times when you need to reset your Apple TV to its factory defaults for troubleshooting purposes, or if you wish to give it away. We will guide you through this process.

Apple TV 4K or Apple TV (4th generation)

Apple TV (3rd generation)

2. Factory Reset

Performing a factory reset on your Apple TV erases everything from it. Be sure you have all appropriate data that you do not wish to lose backed up before proceeding further.

1. Go to Settings.
   

1. Go to General.
   

1. Go to Reset.
   

1. Choose a reset option:
2. Reset All Settings: This option is the fastest way to return your Apple TV to factory settings and doesn't require Internet.
3. Restore: This option returns your Apple TV to its factory settings and installs software updates. This option requires Internet.
   

1. Keep your Apple TV plugged into power until the Reset process finishes.
2. Once the reset has completed you can set up your Apple TV again.

3. Factory Reset

Performing a factory reset on your Apple TV erases everything from it. Be sure you have all appropriate data that you do not wish to lose backed up before proceeding further.

1. Go to Settings.
   

1. Go to System.
   

1. 
   
2. Go to Reset.
   

1. Choose a reset option:
2. Reset: This option is the fastest way to return your Apple TV to factory settings and doesn't require Internet.
3. Reset and Update: This option returns your Apple TV to its factory settings and installs software updates. This option requires Internet.
   

1. 
   
2. Keep your Apple TV plugged into power until the Reset process finishes.
3. Once the reset has completed you can set up your Apple TV again.