Essential Guide 2024: How to Reset Wifi Router in 5 Steps

Why would you even want to hit that reset button on your router or modem? Well, maybe you’re passing on your gadgets to someone else, or you just want a fresh IP address – whatever floats your boat. But, hang on a sec, here’s how to reset WiFi router that you can refer to.

But before we dive into the reset whirlpool, a word of caution: resetting your router or modem is like hitting the refresh button on your tech life. It’ll wipe away all your custom settings, so make sure you have a backup copy.

Before we start, it’s important to remember that a WiFi router reset should be your last resort. It’s like hitting the restart button on your computer – it can fix issues, but it’s not always the solution.

So, let’s jump into the steps:

Step 1: Locate the Router’s Reset Button

First, find your WiFi router. It’s usually a small box with antennas. Look for a tiny button labeled “Reset.” It’s often on the back or bottom of the router.

Step 2: Properly Press and Hold the Reset Button

Grab a paperclip or a pin. You’ll need this to press the reset button.

Gently insert the paperclip or pin into the reset button hole. Gently press and maintain the button for roughly 10 to 15 seconds. You’ll usually see some lights blink on the router during this process.

Step 3: What to Expect During the Reset Process

The router will reboot and reset to its default settings. You may need to wait a minute or two for this process to complete.

Once the lights stabilize, your router is reset.

Step 4: Restoring and Reconfiguring WiFi Settings

Next, you’ll need to reconfigure your WiFi settings and password.

• Access your router’s admin panel via a web browser (usually by typing 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 in the address bar).
• Log in with the default credentials (usually found on a sticker on the router).
• Go to the wireless settings section and set up your WiFi network. Don’t forget to secure it with a strong password.

Step 5: Reconnecting Devices to the Network

Re-establish the connection of your devices to the WiFi network using the updated password. Make sure everything is running smoothly, and you’re good to go!

Resetting your router can vary depending on the brand. Here are guides for some common brands:

Resetting Tp-Link WiFi Router

There are two methods to reset the Tp-Link WiFi Router to its initial default settings:

Method 1: Hard Reset Using the Reset Button

• Step 1: When the router is powered on, press and hold the WPS/RESET button for over 10 seconds until the SYS LED light flashes rapidly.
• Step 2: Let go of the button and allow the router to restart, returning to its original factory settings.

Method 2: Using the Router’s Web Interface

• Step 1: Go to the Advanced Page -> System Tools -> Backup & Restore -> Factory Default Restore.
• Step 2: Click on the Factory Restore page and wait for the router to reboot to its default settings.

*NOTE:

• Make sure the router is powered on before completely rebooting.
• You can find the default IP address/domain name on the bottom label of the product, and the default login credentials consist of “admin” for both the username and password. (all lowercase).

How To Reset Globe WiFi Router

Here are the steps to reset your Globe Home Broadband Router:

• Step 1: Power Up Your Modem/Router
• Step 2: Locate the reset button on the rear of your modem. You can use a piece of paper or any small, sharp object that fits.
• Step 3: Press the reset button for approximately 10 seconds. Then, release it.

After following the above steps, you can now access using the default username and admin password for your modem.

How To Reset the WiFi Routers from Netgear

These are the steps for executing a factory reset:

• Step 1: Make sure the Power light on your router is illuminated.
• Step 2: Locate the Restore Factory Settings or Reset button at the back of your router.
• Step 3: Take a paperclip or a similar object and press and hold the Restore Factory Settings or Reset button for seven seconds.
• Step 4: Let go of the Restore Factory Settings or Reset button. Your router will now undergo the reset process.

How To Reset Smart Bro WiFi Router

With Smart Bro Wifi routers, you can do the reset through the admin dashboard. Here’s how:

• Step 1: Connect to Your Smart Bro Pocket WiFi
• Step 2: Open your web browser (e.g., Google Chrome) and enter 192.168.1.1 in the address bar.
• Step 3: Log in with Default Password (“smartbro”)
• Step 4: Once logged in, click “Settings” in the main menu. Access Device Settings. In the left sidebar menu, select “Device Settings.” Under Device Settings, click on “Reset.” You’ll now be on the Reset Factory Settings page.
• Step 5: Click the “Reset” button. You’ll see a confirmation message that indicates the device will be restored to its factory settings and will commence a restart.

Click “Yes” to confirm the reset. Your Smart Bro Pocket WiFi will restart, and all connected devices will be disconnected.

• Step 6: After your device restarts, reconnect to the Smart Bro network and log in to the admin dashboard (192.168.1.1) using the default password “smartbro.” The default WiFi password is also “smartbro.”

For security, remember to update your Smart Bro admin and WiFi passwords. Check out my instructions on changing WiFi router password to learn how.

How To Reset Linksys Wifi Router

You’ve got two choices for resetting your Linksys routers. Pick one below:

Manual Reset

• Step 1: Find the Reset button and, using a pen or paperclip, press and hold it for 10 seconds. For router models like Linksys Wireless-B and Wireless-G routers, hold the Reset button for 30 seconds.

Quick Tip: Keep an eye on the Power light on the router while pressing the button. It should blink or flash, indicating the router is resetting.

• Step 2: Disconnect the router from the power outlet for 30 seconds. Plug it back in and wait for the Power light to become steady.

Important: Newer Linksys Wi-Fi Routers no longer require unplugging from the outlet for the reset.

Software Reset

• Step 1: From a computer connected to your router, launch a web browser and enter “192.168.1.1” in the Address bar, then hit [ENTER]. If your router’s IP address is different, use that.
• Step 2: When prompted, enter your router’s admin credentials to log in. The default is “admin” for the password, with no username. If you changed the admin password, use that.
• Step 3: Once the router’s web-based setup page appears, go to the Administration tab.
• Step 4: Click “Factory Defaults” and hit the “Restore Factory Defaults” button.

Remember that after successfully resetting your router, you must reconfigure its settings.

Resetting your router to factory settings isn’t something you’d do every other day, but hey, it can be a lifesaver when things go haywire. It’s like hitting the reset button on your life – you wipe the slate clean.

Now, why would you want to do this? Here are a few scenarios where a reset can come to the rescue:

• Troubleshooting Woes: You’re battling network issues at home, and the usual tricks like turning it off and on aren’t cutting it.

• Locked Out Blues: You’ve forgotten the password to your router’s secret admin club, and you’re locked out.
• Handing it Over: If you’re passing on your router to a new owner or retiring it, you’d want to give it a fresh start.
• Sneaky Malware Suspicions: You suspect your router’s been hit by the digital flu, and a reset can help clean things up.

Now, the downside? Well, it’s a clean slate, alright. Say goodbye to your custom settings, passwords, and network names. You’ll have to go through the whole setup process again. But most routers let you back up your data, saving you some time.

* HERE’S THE PRO TIP:

After the reset, your router won’t play nice with the internet until it’s all set up again. So, grab any manuals, guides, or a trusty device that can still connect to the web using another network. It’ll keep you from getting stuck in the digital dark ages.

After resetting your router, you might encounter a few hiccups. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you get back on track:

• Restoring and Reconfiguring WiFi Settings: As mentioned earlier, reconfigure your WiFi settings, including your network name (SSID) and password.
• Reconnecting Devices to the Network: Sometimes, devices may not automatically reconnect after a reset. Manually reconnect them using the new password.
• Replace WiFi router: You’ve hit the reset button, reconfigured it, and it’s still acting up. It’s time to consider a replacement, my friend. But before you dive into that router shopping spree, double-check to be sure it’s the router’s fault, not your internet provider’s. If it’s crystal clear that your router is the culprit, it’s new-router o’clock.

If you purchased a WiFi router long ago and feel behind the trends, don’t worry, as I have your back. Let’s take a close look at my recommendations for the latest and best WiFi router models available in the Philippines.

What happens if I reset my WiFi router?

When you reset your WiFi router, it reverts to its default settings. That means your network name and password return to their initial configurations.

Do WiFi routers need to be reset?

WiFi routers don’t need frequent resets, but they can benefit from an occasional reset if you’re experiencing network issues.

Does resetting my router give me a new IP?

Yes, after a router reset, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) assigns you a fresh IP address.

What if the reset button is not working?

If the reset button doesn’t work, check the router’s manual or contact customer support for assistance.

How often should I reset my WiFi router?

You don’t need to reset your WiFi router regularly. It’s typically done when you encounter network issues that can’t be resolved through other means.

Is resetting my WiFi router the same as restarting it?

No, resetting your WiFi router is different from simply restarting it. A reset reverts the router to its factory settings, while a restart just turns it off and on.

Knowing how to reset a WiFi router is an essential skill in today’s digital age. It can help you resolve network issues and enhance your security. So, don’t be afraid to press that reset button when needed, and follow our detailed guide for a hassle-free experience.

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Tony

Tony, an experienced engineer and tech enthusiast, brings his expertise to Hometoppicks, where he oversees the Electronics and Entertainment Equipment sections. With his hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge of the latest trends, Tony provides reliable product recommendations and valuable insights into cutting-edge tech. You can find more about him here.