How to Reset Your Router to Factory Settings

A factory reset wipes all custom settings (WiFi name and password, admin password, port forwarding, DNS, etc.) and restores the router to its default state. Use it when you forgot the admin password, have connectivity issues, or are giving away the device. You will need to set up WiFi and any other settings again after the reset.

General Steps (All Routers)

Locate the Reset button on the router. It is usually a small hole labeled “Reset” or “RST” on the back or bottom. Use a paperclip or similar tool. With the router powered on, press and hold the button for about 8–15 seconds until the LEDs blink or change (often the power or WAN LED). Release the button and wait for the router to reboot. The exact hold time varies by brand; check the manual or label if unsure. After the reset, the default login and WiFi will apply again (see Router Passwords).

Find the Reset pinhole on the back. Power on the router, insert a paperclip, and hold for about 10 seconds until the LEDs start blinking. Release and wait for the device to restart. Default gateway is usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1; default login is typically admin/admin. Reconfigure WiFi and admin password in the web interface. For full TP-Link setup see TP-Link Router Settings.

Use the Reset button (small hole) on the back or bottom. Hold it for about 10 seconds while the router is on until the LEDs indicate a reset (often a quick blink or power cycle). Let the router reboot. Default IP is 192.168.0.1; login is usually admin with a blank password or admin/admin. Set up WiFi and security again. More details: D-Link Router Settings.

Reset NETGEAR Router

Press and hold the Reset pinhole (often on the back) for about 7–10 seconds until the power LED blinks. Release and wait for the router to come back up. Default address is 192.168.1.1 or routerlogin.net; default login is admin/password. Re-enter your internet and WiFi settings. See NETGEAR Router Settings for setup steps.

Reset Tenda Router

Locate the Reset hole, usually on the back. With power on, hold the button for about 10 seconds until the LEDs flash. After the router restarts, log in at 192.168.0.1 with the default credentials (often admin/admin). Configure WiFi name and password again. Full guide: Tenda Router Settings.

Reset ZTE Router or Modem

Use the Reset pinhole on the device. Hold for about 10 seconds until the LEDs change and the unit reboots. Default IP is often 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1; login is usually admin/admin (check the sticker). You may need to re-enter your ISP settings (PPPoE, VLAN, etc.) if you use them. See ZTE Router Settings.

Reset Huawei Router or Modem

Press and hold the Reset button (small hole) for about 10–15 seconds until the device restarts. Default address is often 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.8.1; default login is typically admin (password may be on the sticker). Reconfigure WiFi and, if applicable, ISP connection details. More: Huawei Router Settings.

After a Reset

Reconnect to the default WiFi (name and password are on the router label or in the manual) or use an Ethernet cable. Log in to the router and set a new admin password, then change the WiFi name and password. If you had custom DNS, port forwarding, or static IPs, you must set them again.

When to Reset and When to Avoid

Reset is useful when you forgot the admin password, the router is unstable or misconfigured, or you are giving away or selling the device. Avoid resetting if you only want to change the WiFi password or a single setting—do that from the admin interface. After a reset, ISP-specific settings (e.g. PPPoE username and password) may be lost; have those details ready if your connection requires them. See Router Passwords for default logins after reset.

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