Why reset your router?
You don't need to reset your router to its factory default settings, although you might find it helpful sometimes as a troubleshooting tool. Compared to just restarting it, this is a considerably more extreme action. A factory reset is equivalent to wiping clean the device's settings and data and starting again.
In the following situations, you might need to reset your router:
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Your home network is having issues and you've tried power cycling and other fixes without success.
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The online interface for managing your device has been shut out for you.
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You want to get rid of your device in some other means, like selling or giving it away.
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You suspect that your device may be infected with malware.
The act of performing a complete factory reset has significant drawbacks. Your personalized settings, information, passwords, and network names are all deleted. As a result, once the reset is complete, you must completely reconfigure your home network. The ability to back up your data is typically provided by routers, which can speed up the procedure.
An advice:
Once you've reset your router, you won't be able to connect to the internet with it until it has been configured once again. A smart idea is to download any manuals, instructions, or other information in advance. You should also have a phone or other device that can access the internet through a connection other than your home network.
What else can you try?
There are a few things you should try first with your router before doing a complete factory reset. These processes are significantly simpler to carry out and won't wipe all your settings and data.
Reboot your router
While both involve clearing your device's memory, a full factory reset is distinct from merely restarting (also known as power cycling) your device.
Your router erases all the data stored in RAM when you reboot it by shutting it off. This functions in the same way as if you were using your computer to write an essay and there was a power outage. Everything you had recently typed would be gone when the power came back on, but everything saved to your hard drive would still be there.
Errors in the applications that are now operating are frequently caused by issues with your router. The issues are gone when you restart the router and those apps launch once again, just like in our example article. To determine if your troubles are resolved, it is usually a good idea to reset your router first.
You may need to reset if a reboot doesn't solve the issue. A reset clears both your non-volatile memory and your hard drive in addition to your volatile memory. It resembles wiping your essay—along with everything else—off the hard disk of your computer. You would lose the entire essay from your PC.
When the issue with your router isn't only with the software that's now operating, but also with some corrupt data saved on the device (or a password that you've forgotten), that corrupt data doesn't disappear when the power is turned off. You must reset the device to delete it in order to get rid of it.
Update your firmware
Update your firmware as a last option if a reboot doesn't solve your issue and you're on the verge of resorting to drastic measures. The router's firmware is the internal program that gives it control and enables it to run your home network. Similar to computer operating systems, firmware updates are sometimes made to address issues or enhance performance.
Your router may have had this issue resolved in a firmware update if it hasn't been operating as well as it once did or has started to exhibit minor issues. Go to the manufacturer's website and search for your device to get updates and instructions. From the settings menu of certain routers, you can also install firmware upgrades or set up automatic updates.
A firmware update won't solve every issue, such as losing your password or getting rid of malware, but it's a good idea to check when you're having problems with your router that aren't immediately apparent.
How can you reset your router using the settings menu?
Even without a reset button, you may still reset your router to its default settings by entering into the web interface. The majority of routers also let you use the web interface to back up your settings.
Follow these instructions to reset your router via the web interface:
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Find the IP address of your router.
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Enter the address in your browser.
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Enter your username and password to log in.
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Find the factory reset option.
If you saved your settings before resetting, you may typically find the option to restore them in the same menu.
FAQs
How frequently should my router be restarted?
How frequently to restart your router is not subject to any specific rules. Consider performing this action on a regular basis in addition to dealing with slow network problems when they occur for overall performance that runs more smoothly. Create your own weekly or monthly schedule if you'd like, or get advice from the router's maker.
How can I restart a router using a phone or computer?
You can restart your router on your computer or phone by yourself in a few simple steps. If one is available, download it. If not, enter the IP address of your router in a web browser. Once logged in, search for the restart or reboot option.
On a PS4, how do you restart your router?
Turn off your modem or router, wait at least 30 seconds, then turn it back on. Additionally, turn off your PlayStation system completely before turning it back on; do not use Sleep Mode.
