Are you having trouble connecting to the internet or streaming a video? If so, it is likely that your router is the culprit. Knowing how to reset your wifi router can save you a lot of time and effort troubleshooting and can even improve your internet speed. In this article, we will discuss how to reset your wifi router and provide some tips to help ensure that your internet connection is running as smoothly as possible.
I. Introduction to the Need to Reset a Wifi Router
At times, resetting your wifi router becomes essential in ensuring your network is running smoothly. It helps to clear out any problems that may have been caused by misconfigured settings, persistent bugs, or just simply a change in current status that your router needs to register. To reset a wifi router properly, you’ll need to understand the following concepts before taking action:
- Different methods of resetting a router
- The impact of a reset
- Proper router maintenance
Understanding Different Router Reset Methods: There are two ways of resetting a router – a soft reset and a hard reset. A soft reset can be likened to a reboot and it will allow changes made in settings to take effect. To perform, you simply need to press the Reset button located on the back/bottom of your router. On the other hand, a hard reset is more extensive and will reset any changes you’ve made to the device’s settings, resetting your router’s configuration back to factory settings. This type of reset will require you to use a pin or paperclip to access the Reset button.
The Impact of the Reset: It’s important to understand that hardware settings and the router’s username and password will be reset to their original state – this information is usually located on a white sticker found underneath the router. You should also be aware that a reset procedures might take a few minutes to complete, but afterwards your router will have returned to its original settings as if it was just out of the box.
Proper Router Maintenance: To stay on top of your router’s performance and ensure it works as expected, a reset should only be performed if there are specific problems with the router. As a rule of thumb, if you’re noticing frequent disruptions to your network, sporadic slowdowns, unreliable connections, among other problems, a reset may be the solution.
II. Why Is Resetting a Wifi Router Necessary?
Resetting a wifi router is beneficial for a variety of reasons:
- It can help address wifi network issues related to range, bandwidth and performance, allowing for improved connections.
- It may help protect user data by improving security, helping to prevent hackers from gaining access to an existing wifi network.
- It can also help improve the user experience by enhancing the wifi connection speed, making it easier to access streaming, gaming and other internet content.
When a router is reset, it will reset all the settings back to their default, factory specifications. For example, the network name (SSID) will be reset and any changes that were made to the network settings will be undone. It is important to note that all connected devices will need to reconnect to the newly reset wifi network in order for the reset to take effect.
Resetting the router can also be useful in times when the existing wifi password is unknown, the router seems to be malfunctioning, or the wifi signal is weak. Essentially, when users are experiencing issues with their wifi connection, it is always worth trying to reset the router as it may help to improve the connection and alleviate the issue.
III. Steps for Resetting a Wifi Router
Verifying Connection
Before attempting to reset your wifi router, the first step is to make sure that it is properly connected to the modem. Confirm that both the router and modem have a power source and that all continuity lights are active. Additionally, verify that all cables used to interconnect the modem and router are secure.
Resetting the Router
Once the connection is verified, resetting the router requires a few easy steps. Depending on the device, the specifics may vary slightly.
- Locate the reset button on the back or side of the router.
- Hold the reset button down for 10 seconds.
- Allow the router to reboot completely.
It is also recommended to unplug both the modem and router if a power reset is needed. After plugging both devices back in and allowing them to reset, it is best to wait 1-2 minutes before attempting to reestablish your connection.
New Wifi Settings
After the router has been reset and is running, the next step is to enter the new wifi settings. Enter the SSID name and password, ensuring they are unique and difficult to guess. For wireless encryption, WPA2 is recommended for best security. After saving the new settings, test your wifi connection and make sure it is properly working.
IV. Verifying a Successful Wifi Router Reset
Once a home Wi-Fi router has been reset, it is important to confirm that the reset is completed and that the router is functioning properly. This article provides tips to ensure that the reset is completed successfully and provide in insight into how to verify.
The first step is to power cycle the router by unplugging the power cord from the back of the router and then plugging it back in after a few seconds. Once the power is restored, any LED lights on the router should be checked for proper functioning. If all LEDs are illuminated as expected, then the next step is to check the Wi-Fi connections. This can be done by disconnecting from the previous network and connecting to the newly reset network. If the connection is successful, then the reset has been completed successfully.
The second step is to verify the settings of the reset router. All settings should have been reverted to the factory defaults when the router was reset. Typically, this includes the SSID name, security type, and password. These settings can be verified by logging into the router’s interface. The router’s IP address can be found in the back of the router. To log in, open a web browser and enter the IP address into the address bar. A login prompt should appear – the default username and password can also be found on the router. Once the router’s management interface is open, the settings can be verified.
V. Potential Solutions for a Failed Router Reset
If a router reset fails to resolve the underlying network problems, there are a few alternative troubleshooting options. Note: It is best to consult a professional technician if any of the below steps cannot be properly completed.
- Replace the Power Cable and Adapter – The power cable and adapter are the first things to check as there could be a loose connection from the router to the electricity source.
- Replace the Network Cable – If there is a physical issue with the network cable, it may have to be replaced to restore the connection. Additionally, double-check the connection of the cable to the router and the wall.
- Verify the Router Settings – Navigate within the router settings and make sure that all settings are set to the default. If a custom setting was configured prior to the reset, it could cause network connection issues.
If none of the above solutions resolve the issue, a more intrusive method would be needed. This includes a full factory-reset, where the router is returned to its original condition. Note: Upon reset, the ISP may need to be contacted for a new login access, if the settings reset to the default.
By following the above steps, the user facility of a Wifi Router should be put to rest. To make sure no future hiccups take place, users must be encouraged to implement proper security protocols, update the Wifi Router firmware on a timely basis and regularly keep a check for possible threats. This will ensure your Wifi Router remains in good shape and does not require a reset anytime soon.
