How to Reset Your Wi-Fi Router

If your Wi-Fi router is unresponsive, constantly dropping connections, has been compromised, or you have forgotten the admin password, a factory reset is often the solution. This guide explains both the soft reboot and full factory reset methods.

Method 1: Soft Reboot (Recommended First)

A soft reboot restarts the router without erasing any settings:

1. Locate the power adapter at the back of your router
2. Unplug it from the wall socket
3. Wait 30–60 seconds
4. Plug it back in and wait 2–3 minutes for the router to fully restart
5. All your Wi-Fi settings (name, password) will remain unchanged

Method 2: Factory Reset via Reset Button

This erases all settings and restores the router to factory defaults:

1. Make sure the router is powered ON — do not reset a powered-off router
2. Locate the small Reset button on the back or bottom of the router (usually a pinhole)
3. Use a straightened paperclip or pin to press and hold the reset button
4. Hold for 10–30 seconds (varies by model) until the lights flash or change
5. Release and wait 3–5 minutes for the router to fully reset and reboot
6. The router will broadcast its default factory Wi-Fi network and password (printed on the label under the router)

After a Factory Reset: What to Do

1. Connect to the router using the default Wi-Fi credentials (on the label)
2. Open a browser and go to the router's admin page (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1)
3. Log in with the default admin credentials (on the label)
4. Set a new Wi-Fi name (SSID) and a strong password
5. Change the admin password for the router web interface
6. Configure your ISP settings (ask your ISP if you don't know these)

Router-Specific Reset Instructions

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