How To Reset Opera Browser On Windows/ Mac/ iOS/ Android?

Opera, being one of the popular web browsers, serves a significant amount of internet users across different platforms including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. Over time, its performance may decline due to cache build-ups, faulty extensions, or unwanted changes made by certain software. As a remedy, resetting it can be a quick, effective solution that restores the browser to its original functionality.

This guide envelops a comprehensive understanding of when and why resetting Opera becomes necessary, from overcoming the slowdown in browsing speed to getting rid of unwanted modifications. Furthermore, it provides elaborative tutorials on how to reset Opera on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. Lastly, it addresses potential issues you may encounter during the resetting process, alongside sharing effective preventive measures that can enhance your browsing experience.

Understanding the need for resetting Opera

Circumstances for Resetting Opera Browser

There are several scenarios that might necessitate resetting the Opera browser. One possible reason is a noticeable slowdown in your browsing speed. This could be due to a build-up of browsing data, such as cookies and cache files, over time, which can bloat the browser and impact its performance.

 

Another instance could be unwanted changes to your browser settings made by a software. Some programs, especially free ones, may modify your browser settings without your permission during installation. Resetting the browser restores these modified settings to their defaults. Lastly, you may simply need to reset your browser to get a fresh start, especially when troubleshooting issues.

Understanding Resetting Opera Browser

Before resetting the browser, it’s crucial to understand what this action does. When you reset Opera, the ‘on startup’ setting will return to ‘open the start page’, meaning every time you open the browser, it will start with the default home page. All extensions will be disabled but not removed, meaning you need to manually re-enable them after the reset. Temporary data like cookies will also be erased. This could log you out of your online accounts, requiring you to log back in the next time you visit those sites. However, it’s important to point out that pinned tabs, start pages, and installed extensions will remain intact. In other words, these do not get cleared when you reset the browser.

Resetting Opera on Windows and Mac

Resetting Opera on Windows

Step 1: Open the Opera browser on your Windows system.
Step 2: On the top left corner, click on the Opera logo. It will open a dropdown menu.
Step 3: From the dropdown menu, choose “Settings.” Alternatively, you can press Alt + P on your keyboard to directly open the settings.
Step 4: On the left side of the settings page, click on “Advanced” to extend the menu.
Step 5: Click on “Browser” present under the “Advanced” category.
Step 6: Scroll down towards the end of the page until you spot “Reset settings.”
Step 7: Click on the “Restore settings to their original defaults” option.
Step 8: A warning pop-up will appear, warning you about the changes that will happen on resetting the browser. If you are okay with proceeding, click on “Reset.”

Potential Challenges and Solutions for Windows

Resetting the Opera browser will clear temporary data, such as cookies and caches, but it will not remove your bookmarks, history, and saved passwords. However, if you are signed in to the Opera browser, you might need to sign in again after resetting the browser. If the problem persists even after resetting, it may be an issue with the hardware or network, and you may need professional help.

Resetting Opera on Mac

Step 1: Open the Opera browser on your Mac system.
Setp 2: Click on “Opera” present at the top left corner of your Mac’s screen in the menu bar.
Step 3: A dropdown menu will appear. Choose “Preferences” from the given options.
Step 4: On the Preferences page, click on “Advanced” from the panel located on the left side.
Step 5: Click on “Browser” present under the “Advanced” category.
Step 6: Now, scroll down and navigate to “Reset settings.”
Step 7: Click on “Restore settings to their original defaults.”
Step 8: You will receive a warning pop-up, explaining what happens when you reset the settings. If you are ready to continue, click on “Reset.”

Potential Challenges and Solutions for Mac

Just like on Windows, resetting the Opera browser on Mac will retain your bookmarks, history, and saved passwords but will likely cause you to be signed out of your Opera account. Re-sign in after the reset. If problems persist, these might be related to hardware or network issues, not the browser itself, and might need professional assistance.

Resetting Opera on Android and iOS

Resetting Opera on Android Devices

To reset Opera on your Android device, you need to completely clear the browser’s data. Here’s how to do it:

1. Go to your device’s Settings.
2. Scroll down and tap on “Apps” or “Application Management” depending on your device.
3. Find and tap on “Opera.”
4. Tap on “Storage,” then tap on “Clear Data” or “Clear Storage.”

Note: Resetting Opera will delete all your browsing data including your history, saved passwords, and any open tabs. Be sure to backup any necessary data before proceeding.

Resetting Opera on iOS Devices

For iOS devices, the steps are slightly different as compared to Android.

1. Open the Opera app on your iOS device.
2. Tap on the “O” logo at the bottom right corner of your screen.
3. Tap on “Settings” located at the bottom of the drop-down menu.
4. Tap on “Clear browsing data.”
5. Select “Clear Data” to confirm.

Implications of Resetting Opera

A reset on the Opera browser, whether on Android or iOS, involves clearing all the browsing data. This means that all information like browsing history, saved passwords, cookies, cache, and especially open tabs, will be deleted. Furthermore, any progress you have made in web apps through the browser will also be lost. Remember to save or back up important data before executing the reset.

In some instances, resetting the browser can also log you out of various sites. You might have to re-enter usernames and passwords for sites that you were previously logged into.

Additionally, any customized settings or preferences previously set on the Opera browser will be returned to their default settings. This includes themes, appearance, and any extensions you may have added.

Tip: On Windows, you may encounter an issue where the reset process cannot complete because certain files may be in use or corrupted. In such a case, close all running instances of Opera and restart your computer. If the problem persists, you may need to reinstall the browser completely.

Browser Maintenance Tips For Opera

1. To prevent the need for frequent resets, clear browsing data regularly, disable unnecessary extents, and keep the browser updated.
2. Clearing browsing data improves the speed and performance of the browser. This can be done manually through the browser’s settings or automatically set to clear after every browsing session.
3. Disabling unnecessary extensions reduces the chance for clashes between extensions and the browser or between different extensions. Navigate to the extension manager in the browser settings and disable anything not needed.
4. Keep the browser updated. Updates often come with improvements and fixes. To do this, go to the ‘About’ section under the browser settings and check for updates regularly.
5. Adherence to these regular maintenance practices is essential in ensuring a smooth, error-free operation of the Opera browser.

Final Thoughts

Knowledge can be remarkably empowering. By acquainting ourselves with the process of resetting Opera browser, we can take control of our browsing experience and eliminate any interruptions to our internet activities, whether we’re using a Windows, Mac, Android, or iOS device. Whether you’re facing a browsing slowdown, encumbered by unwanted software modifications, or simply desiring a fresh start, resetting Opera can be a practical solution.

The process might present its own set of challenges, but with the correct understanding and cautious steps, these can be easily overcome. Remember to take regular preventive measures like clearing browsing data periodically, disabling unnecessary extensions, and keeping your browser updated to ensure a smooth, hassle-free browsing experience. If you notice something wrong in the steps or article, Click here to suggest