A Samsung Tab A IMEI does not normally change when you perform a factory reset. The reset removes personal information, downloaded apps, accounts and device settings, while the IMEI is a manufacturer-assigned identifier for the tablet's cellular hardware. After setup, the same cellular Galaxy Tab A should display the same IMEI it used before the reset.

If the number is different, missing or rejected after a reset, do not assume that Android generated a new IMEI. First confirm that you are checking the same tablet variant and the correct identifier. A mainboard replacement, a mismatched box, IMEI1-versus-IMEI2 confusion or an abnormal hardware problem is more relevant than the reset itself.

The Short Answer

  • A standard factory data reset does not normally create a new IMEI.
  • Samsung describes a factory reset as erasing personal information and data and returning the device to its initial setup screen.
  • The IMEI belongs to a cellular device interface, not to your Google account, Samsung account, SIM card or downloaded apps.
  • Removing or changing a SIM does not assign the tablet a new IMEI.
  • A Wi-Fi-only Galaxy Tab A does not use an IMEI because it has no cellular radio.
  • A replacement mainboard or replacement device may legitimately have a different identifier.
  • Resetting a tablet does not clear a blacklist, Knox Guard, Google Factory Reset Protection or carrier restriction.

What a Factory Reset Actually Removes

Samsung's current factory-reset instructions explain that a factory data reset erases personal information and data, then restarts the Galaxy phone or tablet at the initial setup screen. Samsung recommends backing up important information first because erased personal data may not be recoverable.

Depending on the tablet and configuration, the reset can remove:

  • installed apps and their local data;
  • saved accounts and user profiles;
  • photos, downloads and files stored in internal storage;
  • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and mobile-network preferences;
  • accessibility and other customized settings;
  • screen locks and local credentials as part of the supported reset flow.

The reset is a software process for returning the user environment to a clean state. It is not a manufacturing process and does not reallocate the tablet's cellular identity.

Reset all settings is different

Samsung also offers options to reset all settings, network settings or accessibility settings without deleting every app and file. These narrower resets do not replace the IMEI either. They may change connection behavior, so a tablet can temporarily appear different to you even though its equipment identifier is unchanged.

The SIM card is separate

The SIM or eSIM profile identifies a mobile subscription. The IMEI identifies the tablet's cellular equipment. Removing a physical SIM, changing carriers or downloading another eSIM profile does not rewrite the factory-assigned IMEI.

Why the IMEI Normally Stays the Same

The GSMA IMEI Database overview describes the IMEI as a 15-digit unique identifier for a device on a mobile network. Its Type Allocation Code identifies an approved device type, while the remaining device-specific portion distinguishes an individual unit.

Personal content is not part of that structure. Your photos, Samsung account, Google account, passcode and mobile plan are not encoded into the IMEI. Erasing those items therefore does not require a new equipment identifier.

A reset is not an IMEI repair

If a tablet reports an invalid, null or unknown IMEI, a factory reset is not a reliable method for repairing the identifier. Repeated resets can erase data without addressing damaged radio firmware, a board fault or an unauthorized modification.

A reset does not erase status records

Blacklist and device-management records are maintained outside the tablet. A local reset cannot delete a lost-or-stolen report, change a carrier database or remove a finance-related restriction. An IMEI lookup can report available status, but it cannot change that status either.

Why a Samsung Tab A IMEI Might Look Different

You compared the wrong identifier

A cellular tablet may show IMEI1 and IMEI2 when it supports more than one cellular interface. Each is a complete identifier. Comparing IMEI1 before the reset with IMEI2 after setup creates an apparent change even though both numbers already belonged to the tablet.

Record the labels as well as the digits. Do not merge the numbers or substitute an EID, ICCID or Samsung serial number.

The box belongs to another unit

Used tablets are sometimes sold with a replacement box. Compare the identifier in Settings > About tablet with the label on the box and any information supplied by the seller. A mismatch can be innocent, but the seller should explain it before a purchase.

The mainboard was replaced

The cellular modem and related device identity are tied to core hardware. If Samsung or another repair provider replaced the mainboard, the serviced tablet may present a different IMEI. Ask for the repair invoice and verify that the new number matches the device after service.

A mainboard replacement is not the same as a factory reset. One changes important hardware; the other erases user data and settings.

The device was replaced rather than repaired

A warranty or insurance provider may swap the entire tablet. The replacement unit should have its own serial number and IMEI. Documentation should connect the old case or order with the new device.

The tablet is Wi-Fi-only

Some Galaxy Tab A models look almost identical even though one supports cellular service and another is Wi-Fi-only. A Wi-Fi-only model normally has no IMEI. A serial number, model code or Wi-Fi MAC address should not be shortened and entered into a 15-digit IMEI form.

There is a software or hardware fault

If the same cellular tablet previously displayed an IMEI and now shows Unknown, Null or a blank value, stop resetting it. Restart once, install legitimate Samsung updates if the device works normally, and contact Samsung or an authorized service provider. Preserve purchase and repair records.

How to Verify the IMEI Before and After Resetting

Record the identifiers first

Before erasing the tablet, open Settings > About tablet. Depending on the model and software version, the IMEI may appear directly or under Status information. Record:

  • model name and model code;
  • Samsung serial number;
  • IMEI1 and IMEI2, if present;
  • EID, if the tablet supports eSIM;
  • the current carrier and SIM configuration.

Keep this record private. Do not post a complete IMEI in a public support forum.

Back up and remove accounts correctly

Back up files you need and follow Samsung's supported reset path. If you are selling the tablet, remove your Samsung and Google accounts in the proper order and confirm that the device reaches setup without asking for your private credentials.

Google Factory Reset Protection can require the previously synchronized account after an unauthorized reset. An IMEI report does not bypass that security feature.

Check the same field after setup

After the reset, return to About tablet and compare IMEI1 with the earlier IMEI1, and IMEI2 with the earlier IMEI2. Ignore spaces used only for display formatting.

Run a basic model lookup

Use the free imeihub IMEI check to confirm that the number maps to the expected device family. This is basic identification; it is not a free blacklist, warranty, carrier-lock or Knox Guard report.

Use a paid Samsung report only when needed

The Samsung Info + Knox Guard service may provide the additional Samsung-related fields described on its service page. Read the included fields before ordering. The report does not change the IMEI, remove Knox Guard or unlock a Google account.

What a Reset Cannot Fix

A factory reset may help with user-level software problems, but it cannot legitimately:

  • remove a lost-or-stolen blacklist record;
  • change the original device model associated with a TAC;
  • unlock a carrier-restricted cellular radio;
  • clear Knox Guard or financing controls;
  • bypass Google Factory Reset Protection;
  • convert a Wi-Fi-only tablet into a cellular model;
  • repair a damaged mainboard or modem;
  • assign a replacement IMEI to a repaired device.

Be cautious with anyone selling a “reset IMEI” or remote identifier rewrite. Altering equipment identifiers may be unlawful and can create network or ownership problems.

Used-Tablet Checklist After a Reset

If a seller has already reset the Galaxy Tab A, verify more than the welcome screen:

  • Complete enough of setup to open About tablet with the seller's permission.
  • Match the model code, serial number and IMEI with the invoice or repair documents.
  • Confirm whether the tablet is cellular or Wi-Fi-only.
  • Check IMEI1 and IMEI2 separately when two numbers appear.
  • Insert an eligible SIM or follow the carrier's activation process.
  • Verify that setup does not request an unknown previous Google account.
  • Run the status report that matches your actual risk before payment.
  • Keep a written return policy for unresolved identifier or activation problems.

Conclusion

A Samsung Tab A IMEI should remain the same after a normal factory reset because the reset erases user data and settings, not the manufacturer-assigned cellular identity. If the number differs, compare IMEI1 and IMEI2, check the box and repair records, and investigate a board or device replacement. Start with the free imeihub model lookup, then use the Samsung report only when its listed fields answer the additional question you need resolved.

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