If you start having any problems with your Kindle Fire, simply restarting it may be enough to fix them before resorting to a hard reset of the device. For example, your tablet may be slow due to exposure to high temperatures or simply because it is time to perform a software update. If the device screen is frozen or no longer responds to your commands, you can force restart the device instead of restoring the factory default settings, which involves erasing all information on your Kindle. If the problems persist, the first thing to do is to back up all your data, so that you always have them available, and then proceed to restore the device.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Reboot the Device to Speed Up Touchscreen Response Times
Step 1. Press and hold the "Power" button for 2-3 seconds
If the touchscreen has been slowing down, a simple restart of the device may be sufficient. After pressing the power button, the following message "Do you want to turn off your Kindle?" Should appear on the screen. Choose the "Turn Off" option, then wait a few seconds for your Kindle to turn off.
Step 2. Press the "Power" button again
When the device has completed the shutdown process, turn it back on by pressing the power button again.
Step 3. Troubleshooting common problems you may encounter while using a Kindle Fire
If the problem found on your device is still present, before resetting it, you should try to fix it by identifying the cause. For example, it may be necessary to update the operating system to the latest version available, in order to apply the new updates and the solutions adopted by the manufacturer for already known problems. To update your Kindle Fire, you can refer to the instructions on Amazon's online support pages. Here is a list of the root causes of the most common problems you may encounter while using a Kindle Fire:
- Exposing your device to extreme temperatures: Do not use your Kindle in environments where the temperature reaches extremely hot or cold levels.
- Downloading: If content is still downloading, normal device operation may be slowed down. In this case you will have to wait for all active downloads to complete or decide to cancel them.
- Failure to remove the protective case: Try removing the Kindle from the protective case, then see if the device has resumed normal operation.
- Dirty touchscreen: If you have used your device with greasy or too dirty hands, you will need to wipe the screen with a soft, clean (lint-free) and slightly damp cloth to restore normal operation.
- Too many applications running at the same time: in this case, to solve the problem you will simply have to close all the apps you are no longer using.
Part 2 of 3: Force Restart the Device to Restore Normal Touchscreen Operation
Step 1. Connect the device to the mains
If you need to force restart your Kindle to get the locked touchscreen back, you need to plug it into the charger first. It is best to avoid connecting the device to a computer via USB cable, as the performance guaranteed by the supplied charger is better. If your Kindle's remaining charge is too low, charge it for at least 30 minutes before restarting it.
Step 2. Press and hold the power button for 40 seconds
Depending on your device, slide or hold the power button on the underside of the Kindle. In the case of a Kindle Fire the "Power" button is located in the middle of the bottom side of the device.
To exactly calculate the 40 seconds, use your smartphone timer or a watch
Step 3. Press the "Power" button again to start the Kindle Fire
Wait for the device to complete the boot process. If your Kindle does not turn on, try to fix the problem by referring to the diagram in step number three of the previous section.
Part 3 of 3: Restoring the Factory Default Settings
Step 1. Connect the device to the Wi-Fi network
Before resetting your Kindle, you should make sure you have a backup of all the data it contains; this way you can be sure they won't be lost forever. If you don't perform this step, all of your personal information will be lost during the device recovery process. In order to create the backup, your Kindle must be connected to the Wi-Fi network. The Kindle Fire will back up your personal settings, app layout, home screen, notes, and Silk browser favorites.
- Any apps, songs, movies, TV series or books you purchase will be stored in the Amazon cloud and you can re-download them using the "Cloud" tab.
- Your photos or videos are automatically saved on the "Cloud Drive" associated with your Amazon account, unless you have disabled this function.
Step 2. Enable automatic device backup
This feature allows you to preserve your personal data in case your Kindle is damaged or lost. If you want your device to automatically backup daily, follow these instructions:
- Starting at the top edge of the screen, slide your finger down, then choose the "Settings" option.
- Choose the "Device Options" item, then select the "Backup and Restore" option.
- Turn on the switch of the "Backup" item so that it is in the "Active" position.
Step 3. Manually backup your device
Before performing a factory reset, please follow the instructions above to enable the automatic backup feature, then press the "Back up now" button.
Step 4. Reset your device
Remember that this procedure deletes all your personal information on the device, your personalized settings, downloaded content and credentials to log into your Amazon account. Follow these instructions to do a factory reset on your Kindle Fire:
- Starting at the top edge of the screen, slide your finger down, then choose the "Settings" option.
- Choose the "Device Options" item, then select the "Restore Factory Settings" option.
- To confirm, press the "Reset" button.
Step 5. Re-register your Kindle on your Amazon account
After the device has been restored, you will be given the option to choose whether to manage it as new or whether to restore your personal data from an existing backup. You will then need to re-register your Kindle Fire to associate it with your Amazon account and connect it to the Cloud. All content in the Cloud will be downloaded again to the device.
Advice
- After resetting your Kindle Fire, log into the Amazon site to make sure your device is no longer associated with your account. Log into your Amazon account using your Amazon username and password, then choose the "Manage Your Devices" option to verify that your Kindle Fire is no longer listed.
- If you have decided to sell your Kindle Fire or give it to a friend or family member, you should first reset it. This will delete all personal information on the device, including login credentials, payment method information and any other sensitive data.
- If you enter the wrong Kindle Fire password four consecutive times, an error message will appear asking you to reset the device. Therefore, back up all your information at regular intervals to avoid losing all your personal data if you forget your device access password.
