How to Reset a Router: A Step-By-Step Guide
See when resetting a router makes sense, how to do it safely, and how to rebuild your WiFi network afterward.
When You Should (and Should Not) Reset a Router
A quick power cycle—unplugging the router for 10–20 seconds and plugging it back in—solves many temporary glitches and is usually the first step. A full factory reset, however, wipes all custom settings, including WiFi names, passwords, and port‑forwarding rules.
Reserve factory resets for stubborn problems like forgotten admin passwords, corrupted firmware, or persistent instability that survives normal reboots.
Reset Steps and Reconfiguration Checklist
Most routers have a recessed reset button you press and hold for 10–30 seconds while the device is powered on. Status lights usually blink to show that the reset is in progress. After the router restarts, connect using the default WiFi credentials on the label or via Ethernet.
Recreate your WiFi networks with strong passwords, change the admin password, and restore any port‑forwarding or DNS settings you rely on. If your ISP provided the router, verify that any TV boxes, VoIP adapters, or mesh extenders reconnect properly.