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If your Spectrum internet is slow, the router shows a red light, or you're facing some other issue, a factory reset can put those troubles to rest. There are three ways to proceed: Through the Spectrum Internet app, web portal, or a physical reset button.

Steps To Reset Spectrum WiFi Router

Note: Note down the SSID and login details before manually resetting, as you'll need them back to set it up.

Method 1: Using ‘My Spectrum App'

Step 1: Download the ‘My Spectrum app' on your phone if you don't have it already.

Step 2: Log in to the mobile app using the Spectrum ID and password.

Step 3: Go to the services.

Click on the services

Step 4: Choose advanced WiFi settings.

Choose advanced WiFi settings

Step 5: Choose ‘Factory Reset' from the list.

Choose Factory reset from menu

You’ll notice the router restarting a few times during the process. Don't interrupt the process; wait until the status lights turn stable.

Method 2: Using Web Portal

If you don’t want to mess up the connections, you can complete the reset process through the web GUI portal.

Step 1: Go to spectrum.net and log in using your Spectrum credentials used during the initial setup. Key in the details, verify, and click sign in.

Sign in to the app

Step 2: Click the services tab, and go to the Internet. You'll be able to see the devices connected to your home network. Choose the WiFi Router and select Reset Equipment.

Services

Step 4: The portal will ask for confirmation before proceeding. Click on Reset Equipment for a few minutes until your connection is stable.

Reset the equipment

Method 3: Using the Reset Button

If the above two methods haven't solved your problem, try hard resetting your Spectrum gateway with a physical button. This will revert your device to the factory settings and help resolve connectivity issues.

Step 1: Look for a button on its back. If the button is unavailable in your model, there must be a small pinhole.

Reset Spectrum WiFi

Step 2: Press the button for about 15 seconds. In pinhole models, grab a pin, insert it, and hold it for up to 15 seconds.

Step 3: Wait a few minutes until the process is finished and the device re-establishes the connection.

Don't Want To Reset? Try Power Cycle!

Don't want to lose the router settings and customizations? Do you want to avoid re-entering a new password for too many devices? You're in luck, as you can try power cycling your WiFi box, which may fix your problem.

Power Cycle Spectrum Router

A power cycle is one of the simplest methods to give your modems and routers some recovery time. It's switching off the router, disconnecting all the wires, and letting them rest for a while before powering them back again.

Here's how to go about it step by step:

  • Turn the device off.
  • Disconnect all the wires from the device, as shown in the picture above.
  • If you are using a modem and router as separate devices, disconnect the Ethernet cable connecting them as well.
  • Wait a few minutes before connecting the modem to the coax and power outlets. Turn them on and wait until the status lights are stable.
  • Re-attach the Ethernet cable to the router and switch it back on.
  • Once the LED lights are stable, you can go ahead and connect the devices.

Benefits of Factory Resetting a Router

Resetting a wireless router comes with its benefits:

1. Improves Internet Speed

Your router stores a lot of information about the client devices. Over some time, that data accumulates and loads up the memory. If you are using an older router, this could start affecting the performance of your WiFi router's speed.

It also allows you to boot off unused devices, and clear up memory thereby improving your router's performance and overall speed.

2. Remove Bugs

There is an aspect that helps you course correct your settings. This might fix some underlying issues by removing bugs in the system. An unnecessary/obsolete setting causing your internet speeds to slow can disappear.

For instance, the following issues can easily be fixed:

3. Improves Security Aspects

When you access portals via the internet, you're establishing networking pathways on the internet. These pathways can leave traces on the internet, making your device vulnerable to attacks. A reset can clear a few things up and make your network less vulnerable to malware, phishing, and trojan attacks.

What To Do If Factory Reset Don't Work?

Some issues might require the intervention of your service provider i.e., issues with maintenance, physical damage to cable lines, etc.

In that case, request professional assistance from a technician. You can visit spectrum.net and start a chat or call customer support at +1 (833) 267-6094.

Alternatively, you can purchase your own Spectrum-compatible modem and a good third-party router that works with Spectrum.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does resetting your router do?

It will revert your router to its factory settings. All your customized/personalized settings will be set to the default values, including your SSID and password.

How to soft reset a Spectrum gateway remotely?

You can use the My Spectrum App. Follow the steps explained in the article above.

How long does a Spectrum router take to reset?

It takes anywhere between 1 to 5 minutes for the router to reset and re-establish. Watch for the LED indicators online or Internet. Once they turn stable, you can access the internet.

Spectrum Internet not working after reset: What to do?

In case of internet downtimes, outages, or issues related to cabling, you have to contact customer service for professional help.

Conclusion

I'm sure you should have a clear idea about setting the Spectrum WiFi box to its default settings. More often than not, it could clear up a few niggles related to your internet, and for the rest, be sure to request the help of a trained professional.