How to Reset a Cisco Router or Modem

Ash (334)

Nov 19, 2020

5 minutes

Cisco routers are pretty standard when it comes to factory resets. Like most devices, they have a factory reset button that can be used to completely wipe the device.

Factory resetting your Cisco router will remove all of your current settings, including your network name and WiFi password—so be sure to proceed with caution!

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Make sure the Cisco router is turned off and the power cord is plugged into both the router and the power source.

Look for the small factory reset button on the back of the router. Don't press it yet! Just make sure you can locate it.

To initiate a factory reset, you need to press and hold the power button and the factory reset button at the same time for at least 10 seconds.

After you initiate the factory reset, the router will take 5 - 10 minutes to boot. When the lights blink in repetitive patterns or stay solid, you'll know the router is back online.

Restart the router—when it boots again, the factory default settings will be restored.

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Ash (334)

Dec 17, 2020

2 minutes

Changing your WiFi password is a simple and effective network security measure. It's a lot harder to hack into a network with a password that is random and secure.

How to Reset a Cisco Router or Modem

Prepare the router

Locate the reset button

Use the reset button

Wait for the reset to complete