Pattern lock is one of the most commonly used security features on Android phones. It provides a reliable way to secure your Android phone, but it can be frustrating when you forget your pattern password. There are times when you want to change your pattern lock on Android devices for various reasons, such as improving the security or simply because you would like a new pattern. In this blog post, we will discuss different methods to change the pattern lock on your Android device.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Change The Pattern Lock on Android
Changing the pattern lock password on your Android device can help you improve the overall security of your device. By regularly changing your pattern lock password, you reduce the likelihood of unauthorized access to your device. Additionally, if you suspect that someone has discovered your pattern password, you may want to change it to prevent them from accessing your device. In some cases, you may also want to change your pattern lock simply because you want to use a new pattern.
Method 1: Change Pattern Lock on Android Via Settings
Firstly, you can change your pattern lock on your Android device by going to the settings app. This method is simple and straightforward, and it is the most common way to change your pattern lock. Here are the steps:
1. Go to the Settings app on your Android device.
2. Tap on ‘Security’ or ‘Biometrics and Security’, depending on your device.
3. You may need to enter your current pattern password to make changes to the security settings.
4. In the Security settings, you will see an option for ‘Screen lock’ or ‘Lock screen type’.
5. Tap on the ‘Screen lock’ option and then select ‘Pattern’.
6. Enter your new pattern lock by drawing the pattern you would like to use.
7. Confirm your new pattern lock by drawing the same pattern again.
8. Tap on ‘Done’ or ‘Save’ to confirm changes to your pattern lock.
Pros:
– This method is easy to use and does not require any additional apps or settings.
– You can change your pattern lock password in a matter of seconds with this method.
Cons:
– This method may not be available on some older Android devices.
– If you have forgotten your current pattern password, you won’t be able to use this method.
Method 2: Change Pattern Lock on Android Via Google Account
Another way to change your pattern lock on your Android device is to use your Google account. This method is helpful if you have forgotten your pattern lock password, and it requires you to have your Google account credentials. Here’s how to change your pattern lock on Android using your Google account:
1. Enter the wrong pattern on your Android device multiple times until the phone prompts you to try again in a few seconds.
2. As the phone gives you this message, tap on ‘Forgot Pattern’.
3. Enter your Google account credentials, including the email address and password associated with your Android device.
4. You will be redirected to the ‘Set Screen Lock’ page in the Security settings.
5. Choose the new pattern lock that you would like to use.
6. Confirm your new pattern lock by drawing the same pattern again.
7. Save your new pattern lock by tapping on ‘Done’.
Pros:
– This method is helpful if you have forgotten your pattern lock password.
– You can reset your pattern lock password with just your Google account credentials.
Cons:
– This method requires an active internet connection to reset the pattern lock password.
– If you have forgotten your Google account credentials, you won’t be able to use this method.
Method 3: Change Pattern Lock on Android Via Third-Party Apps
You can change your pattern lock on your Android device by using third-party apps available on the Google Play Store. There are several apps available that can help you change the pattern lock on your Android device quickly and easily. However, it is important to note that some apps may not be secure and may pose a risk to your personal information.
1. Go to the Google Play Store and search for ‘Pattern Lock’.
2. Choose a reliable app that has good reviews and ratings.
3. Download and install the app on your Android device.
4. Follow the instructions provided by the app to change your pattern lock.
Pros:
– This method allows you to use unique and interesting pattern locks that are not available in the default Android settings.
– Some third-party apps provide additional security features to keep your device safe.
Cons:
– Some third-party apps may not be secure and may access your personal information without your permission.
– There may be a cost associated with downloading and using certain third-party apps.
Method 4: Change Pattern Lock on Android Via Factory Reset
The final option to change the pattern lock on your Android device is to perform a factory reset. This method is not recommended as it will erase all your data, including your contacts, messages, and photos. If you have no other choice, this method can help you change your pattern lock password. Here’s how to perform a factory reset on your Android device:
1. Turn off your Android device.
2. Press and hold the volume up button and the power button simultaneously until the smartphone logo appears on the screen.
3. Release the power button, but continue to hold the volume up button until the Android recovery screen appears.
4. Use the volume buttons to navigate to the ‘Factory reset’ or ‘Wipe data/factory reset’ option.
5. Press the power button to select the ‘Factory reset’ option.
6. This process will erase all your data and will prompt you to set up your device again.
7. During the setup process, you will be asked to set up a new pattern lock.
Pros:
– This method provides a way to change your pattern lock if you have forgotten the pattern password and don’t have your Google account credentials.
Cons:
– This method erases all your data, including your contacts, messages, and photos.
– You will need to set up your device again as if it was new.
What to Do If You Can’t Change The Pattern Lock on Android
If for some reason you are not able to change your pattern lock on your Android device using any of the above methods, you may want to consider the following fixes:
– Restart your Android device and try again.
– Charge your phone and try again.
– Remove any faulty or corrupted SD card on your phone
– Clear the cache of the security settings app or uninstalling any third-party security app that hinders changing pattern lock
– Boot your phone into safe mode and try changing your pattern lock.
Bonus Tip
Here are some bonus tips to help ensure the security of your Android device:
1. Use a secure and complex pattern lock password. Avoid simple patterns, such as 1234 or the letters of your name.
2. Set your device to automatically lock after a certain amount of time of inactivity.
3. Add an extra layer of security to your Android device by enabling two-factor authentication on your Google account. This way, if someone tries to access your account from a different device, you will be notified.
5 FAQs
Q1: How do I recover my forgotten pattern lock password on Android?
A: If you’ve forgotten your pattern lock password on Android, you can use your Google account credentials to unlock your phone or try other methods that can help you reset your password.
Q2: Can I change my pattern lock password without losing my data?
A: Yes, you can change your pattern lock password using the settings app or Google account method without losing your data. However, if you choose to perform a factory reset, you will lose all your data.
Q3: Can I use two-factor authentication to secure my Android device?
A: Yes, you can enable two-factor authentication on your Google account, which will add an extra layer of security to your Android device.
Q4: Can third-party apps be trusted to change pattern lock password on Android?
A: Not all third-party apps can be trusted. Always ensure you download and install reliable apps from the Google Play Store.
Q5: Do I need to set up a new pattern lock password after a factory reset?
A: Yes, you will need to set up a new pattern lock password and set up your device again as if it was new.
Final Thoughts
Changing the pattern lock password on your Android device is an essential part of securing your device. It is crucial that you use complex and secure pattern passwords to ensure the safety of your personal data. With the methods described above, you should be able to change your pattern lock password without any difficulties. If you are not sure which method to choose, refer to the pros and cons listed above to make the best decision. Remember to always keep the security of your Android device in mind and follow our bonus tips to optimize your security.