This Is the Best Way to Reset Your Router
Disrupting your Wi-Fi connection is never welcome, whether you’re in the middle of sending out a large work project or streaming music to your smart speaker. In many cases, a quick check of your router can solve the problem: rebooting and/or resetting the device can fix memory or cache problems, stabilize your network connection, or improve wireless signal problems.
Remember that a router is not the same as a modem (although you can buy a modem-router combo box). Routers act as an interface between all your wireless devices and your modem, which in turn connects data from your home network to the Internet and vice versa.
How to reboot your router
Restarting your router may help improve the speed, performance, or stability of your connection. If you still have problems, you may have to restart your device, returning it to factory settings.
Disconnect your router
The very first step is to disconnect the router from its power source by unplugging the cord from the router’s power input. Wait at least 30 seconds for the device to cool down and unplug, then reconnect power. Depending on the model, you may also need to press the power button.
After turning on the power, wait at least 30 seconds (or up to several minutes) for the router to boot up again and connect to the Internet again. If the problem is solved, you’re done. Otherwise, you may need to take additional steps.
Note. If you are rebooting both your modem and router, first plug the modem back in and wait at least a minute before powering on the router.
Reset your router
Restarting your router won’t change your settings, but it may be the next best step in troubleshooting your connection issues. There are several ways to reset your router , the most complete of which is a full factory reset. With the router turned on, find the Reset button on your device and press and hold it for 30 seconds. (Some buttons will require a sharp, pointed object, such as a paperclip, to access.)
Since this process removes all user settings, you will need to log into your router’s admin using the default username and password, which is usually found on the router or in the user manual, and change the Wi-Fi password .
Troubleshoot connection and location issues
If restarting and resetting doesn’t fix the problem, you may be dealing with a faulty Ethernet cable or some kind of obstruction in getting your signal to where you need it. Try replacing the cable and/or moving the router to an open, centralized location.
If none of these steps improve your connection, it may be time to replace your router.