Resetting a router restores its factory default settings. All of the customizations you might have made, such as the WiFi network name, password, and parental controls, will be erased. In most cases, problems like connected but no internet, slow upload speeds, etc get fixed just by resetting the device.
This article answers various questions around the topic like what happens when you reset a router, whether it is a good idea to reset, and lastly, how to reset. I will also list down some of the issues that can be fixed with a router reset.
So, let’s get started without further delay!
What Does Resetting The Router Do?
- Restores Factory Settings: A factory reset erases all customized configurations and changes made to the device, reverting it back to its original settings.
- Clears Network Cache: Resetting clears the network cache, which can help resolve issues related to speeds, coverage, or inconsistent performance.
- Reboots the Router: Resetting also involves restarting the router, which can resolve minor software glitches or temporary issues affecting its performance.
- Disconnects Active Connections: When the router is being reset, it terminates all active connections to devices currently connected to the network.
- Provides a Fresh Start: Reset can be beneficial when troubleshooting complex network problems or when starting from scratch with a new network setup.
Is It Good To Reset The Router?
Resetting a router can help resolve network issues, such as slow speeds or connectivity problems, by clearing out temporary files and cached data. Additionally, resetting can be useful when starting from scratch with a new network setup.
However, it's important to note that a factory reset will erase all customized settings, so it should be done as a last resort after trying other troubleshooting steps.
When & How Often Should You Reset The Router?
In general, it is recommended to reset the router as a troubleshooting step when experiencing persistent network issues or any other software-related issues. However, regularly scheduled resets are not necessary and can disrupt the network unnecessarily.
Instead, it is more effective to focus on proper router maintenance, such as keeping firmware up to date and ensuring good ventilation, placing it in the right place, to minimize the need for frequent resets.
What Are Different Ways To Reset a Router?
There are typically three main ways to perform a hard reset:
- Using the Reset Button: Pressing the physical reset button on the router initiates a hard reset, restoring it to factory settings.
- Using the Web Interface: Almost all routers offer a reset option within their web-based administration interface, allowing users to reset the router remotely through a browser.
- Using the App: Certain router models provide dedicated mobile apps that include a reset function, enabling users to initiate a hard reset via their smartphones or tablets.
Suggested Resources:
- Reset TP-Link router
- Reset ASUS router
- Reset Xfinity router
- Reset Verizon router
- Reset CenturyLink router
- Reset Cox router
- Reset AT&T router
- Reset ARRIS router
- Reset Frontier router
Issues That Can Be Fixed With a Router Reset
- Slow internet speeds or network performance issues.
- Unstable connectivity.
- Difficulty connecting to the router's administrative interface.
- Forgotten router login credentials.
- Inability to establish a connection with certain devices.
- Suspected unauthorized access.
- Other network problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Resetting your router will restore it to its factory settings and remove any customized configurations. This means you will lose any personalized settings, such as network names, passwords, and port forwarding settings.
Yes, resetting the router will temporarily interrupt your internet connection. When you perform a reset, the router needs to reboot and reconnect to your internet service provider. After the reset is complete and the router is properly configured, the internet connection should be restored.
In most cases, it is recommended to reset the router rather than the modem. The router handles the network connections and configurations, while the modem connects your network to the internet.
No, power cycling a router involves turning it off, disconnecting the power, waiting, and turning it back on. It helps resolve minor connectivity issues but doesn't reset the router to factory settings.
Conclusion
While resetting a router can be a useful troubleshooting step, it should be approached with caution. Before proceeding, consider backing up important settings and consult the manual or manufacturer's support for specific issues.
