Quick answer
A router reset restores all settings to factory defaults: the WiFi network name and password, PPPoE credentials, port forwarding and similar are lost. Only reset if you have ruled out other causes and have the data needed to reconfigure. After a reset, the router connects to the internet only once you set it up again.
How to recognize the problem
- Router does not respond to login on the admin page or the password does not work
- WiFi network appears but there is no internet even after a restart
- Router freezes, drops the connection or restarts on its own
- You cannot access settings because the password is lost
- After changing provider or moving, the router does not establish a connection
Most common causes
Forgotten administrator password
If you do not know the password for the router admin page, a reset is the only way to regain access to settings. Factory login details are usually printed on the router label.
Corrupted or stuck configuration
After many settings changes or a failed firmware update, the router may malfunction. A reset restores a clean configuration and often fixes the problem.
Changing provider or location
When you change internet provider or move, the old settings (PPPoE, VLAN, IP address) no longer apply. A reset lets you configure the router from scratch.
Malicious settings change
If someone accessed the router without authorization and changed the DNS or password, a reset restores factory settings and removes such changes.
Step-by-step fix
- 1
Check if a reset is really necessary
First rule out other causes: power cycle the router, check the cables and whether the internet is available on other devices. If the problem is only in one room or on one device, a router reset probably will not help. Only reset when you are sure the problem is with the router or its settings.
- 2
Prepare the data for reconfiguration
Before resetting, write down the data you will need to re-enter: WiFi network name and password, internet username and password (PPPoE), any static IP addresses and port forwarding rules. If you do not know the PPPoE details, call your provider before resetting. Without that data, the router will not have internet after the reset.
- 3
Locate the reset button on the router
On the back or side of the router, look for a small hole or recessed button marked
ResetorRST. It is usually next to the power connector. You will need a thin object such as an unbent paperclip or a toothpick to reset. - 4
Perform a hardware reset
Turn on the router and wait for it to fully boot (1 to 2 minutes). A reset erases all settings, so before proceeding check that you have written down the data from step 2. Insert the paperclip into the hole and hold the button pressed for 10 to 15 seconds, until the lights blink or the router restarts on its own. Release the button and wait for the router to boot again. The procedure varies by model, so check the manufacturer's manual if you are unsure.
- 5
Connect to the factory WiFi network
After the reset, the router broadcasts the factory network name (SSID) and password. Find these details on the label on the bottom or back of the router. Connect your computer or phone to that network, or connect the computer to the router with a LAN cable.
- 6
Open the admin page and log in
In your browser, open the router access address, most commonly
192.168.0.1or192.168.1.1; the exact address is on the label. Log in with the factory username and password (oftenadmin/admin). If the page does not open, check that you are connected to the router and that the computer received an IP address automatically. - 7
Set up internet and WiFi from scratch
In the setup wizard or the WAN/Internet section, select the connection type your provider uses (most often PPPoE or DHCP) and enter the details you prepared. Then in the wireless section, change the network name and password, and save the settings. If the router asks for a restart, wait for it to boot again and apply the new parameters.
- 8
Check the connection and restore additional settings
Connect to the new WiFi network and check that the internet works on multiple devices. If you used port forwarding, static IP addresses or parental controls, re-enter them. Finally, change the router administrator password to something other than the factory default.
If the reset did not help
If the internet still does not work after a reset and reconfiguration, the problem is probably not the router. Check whether your provider has an outage, whether the cable to the router is good, and whether the router is correctly connected to the modem or wall socket. On older routers, a reset sometimes fails due to a faulty button or firmware; then try a reset through the admin page if the Factory reset or Restore defaults option is available. If that does not help either, the router may be faulty and should be replaced. Do not open the router casing or touch internal components.
How to prevent it
- Write down and store your internet and WiFi details in a safe place
- Regularly update the router firmware according to the manufacturer's instructions
- Change the factory administrator password immediately after setup
- Do not share the router admin page password and do not leave it in a visible place
When to call a professional
If you cannot establish an internet connection after the reset or do not know the configuration details, it is better to call IT support or your provider than to change settings at random.
IT infrastructure maintenance · Servers, networks, backup, security and helpdeskFAQ
Does a reset erase all data from the router?
A reset restores all settings to factory defaults: the WiFi network name and password, internet details, port forwarding and other rules are erased. The router itself does not store user files, so documents or photos on your computer are not deleted.
How long should I hold the reset button?
Most commonly 10 to 15 seconds, until the lights blink or the router restarts. On some models 5 seconds is enough, while others require up to 30. Check the manufacturer's manual for the exact procedure.
What if I do not know the internet password after the reset?
The internet details (PPPoE username and password) are provided by your internet provider. Call the provider's customer support and ask for those details before you perform the reset, because without them the router will not establish a connection.