How to Reset the Linksys Wireless Router
Level of difficulty: Intermediate
There are basically two methods that can be used in order to reset a Linksys router: soft reset (software base) or hard reset (directly done from the hardware). Resetting of the router device should not be done on a regular interval because this process will return all settings to their factory defaults and would require the user to edit all necessary settings accordingly before using the router device. According to its manufacturer, there is a possibility that some problems may be resolved by resetting the router hardware; however, this will remove any modifications including security settings and should therefore be used as a last resort only. The resetting of the router device however will not affect the service generated by other connected. This includes the speed of the Internet connection bandwidth or the behavior of the actual modem device.
Materials Needed:- Linksys brand router
- computer
- Web browser
- pointed tip stick or pen
Step 1
In general, it is better to implement a soft reset process as outlined in Step 7 compared to the hard reset procedure. To begin a hard reset, first locate the Reset Button. This is normally located at the back panel beside the WAN or Internet port. There is a possibility though that the position may vary depending on the model of the router device.
Step 2
After locating the Reset Button, press it for approximately 30 seconds continually with minimal force using any pointed object that can make contact with the button.
Step 3
Once the Reset Button is released, the indicator lights in the front panel of the router will blink for about three to five times. This will indicate that the settings have been restored to their factory defaults.
Step 4
Open the Web browser of any machine connected to the router. Linksys by default normally uses the IP address 192.168.1.1 for the router. Type this IP address in the Web browser’s address bar.
Step 5
When the router login screen is displayed, leave the ID field blank and type 'admin' in the password field. This process completes the resetting of the router device.
Step 6
Make the necessary changes in the settings of the router (especially security settings) before closing this utility screen. Turn off the router for about 10 seconds and power it up again to reflect the changes.
Step 7
The soft reset process for the Linksys router can be done via the Web Administration Pages. This requires the use of the Web browser of the computer. In the address bar of the Web browser, type the IP address of the Linksys router. If the user has not modified the IP address, the default is 192.168.1.1.
Step 8
Presumably, the default ID and Password of the router has already been changed by the user. Type the user-assigned ID and Password in their corresponding fields. If it is still unchanged, leave the ID field blank and the default password is 'admin'.
Step 9
Click on the 'Administration' tab and select the 'Factory Defaults' option. Click on the 'Yes' button beside the Restore Factory Defaults text.
Step 10
Click on the 'Save Settings' button at the bottom part of the Web page to make the necessary changes. The router device at this point has already been reset to its default factory settings.
Step 11
Follow the guide in Step 6 before using the router device again.