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How to Reset Your Router in 2025: Soft & Hard Reset

Routers form the digital backbone of every connected space—home offices, shared workspaces, multi-room households. They manage the traffic flowing between your modem and all your devices, from laptops and smartphones to smart thermostats and security systems. Without them, your Wi-Fi network—and everything powered by it—comes to a standstill.

In everyday use, routers handle authentication, IP routing, network address translation (NAT), and wireless signal transmission. They're the invisible hand behind every email you send, video you stream, or smart doorbell you check. When performance drops or connections fail, knowing how to reset the router—both through a soft reboot and a full hard reset—often restores functionality and avoids hours of downtime. In 2025, with smarter firmware and cloud-managed features, the reset process has evolved. Here's how to do it, step by step.

Common Issues That Require a Router Reset

Modern routers pack advanced networking capabilities, but even the best devices encounter problems that disrupt connectivity. Resetting the router, whether soft or hard, directly addresses several recurring issues. Here's a closer look at the most frequent scenarios where a reset becomes necessary.

Frequent Wi-Fi Disconnects

Intermittent wireless connections are more than an annoyance—they disrupt workflow and degrade user experience. Devices might lose their connection multiple times an hour, often due to firmware glitches, memory overload, or driver mismatches. While rebooting might provide temporary relief, consistent disconnects signal the need for either a soft or hard router reset.

Slow or No Internet Connection

When web pages crawl or fail to load entirely, the issue might not lie with your ISP. Over time, routers accumulate errors in their routing tables and memory cache. This kind of data corruption causes speed degradation or connection stalls. A proper reset clears all residual packets, which often restores optimal speed and responsiveness.

Incompatibility With Software Updates or New Apps

Once operating system updates roll out on smartphones, tablets, or PCs, devices occasionally struggle to reconnect to the Wi-Fi network. Similarly, newly installed networking apps—especially VPN clients or device management tools—can introduce conflicts with the router’s current configuration. Restoring the router’s software environment to its clean state typically resolves incompatibility errors.

Problems With Streaming on Smart TVs or Gaming Consoles

Streaming platforms require stable, high-bandwidth connections. When buffering becomes constant or devices suddenly drop off the network during gameplay, it often signals that the router’s Quality of Service (QoS) rules, IP address conflicts, or NAT configuration need a hard refresh. Resetting restores normal streaming flow and reduces latency spikes on gaming consoles such as PS5 and Xbox Series X.

Wi-Fi Network Not Appearing

If the Wi-Fi SSID vanishes and doesn’t show in the list of available networks, the router may be broadcasting on the wrong band, stuck in a non-functional state, or operating with corrupted transmission settings. This scenario typically isn’t fixed by rebooting alone. Resetting forces the router to reinitialize its broadcast settings using default or optimized parameters.

Router Overheating or Becoming Unresponsive

Physical hardware strain from continuous uptime leads routers to overheat, especially lower-end models with poor thermal design. Once the device overheats, its internal processes stall, leading to frozen interfaces or a total halt in data traffic. A hard reset, in combination with a physical power cycle, forces the router to restart vital services and clear system congestion.

Why Resetting a Router Solves More Than You Think

Fixing Software Glitches

Modern routers operate on embedded operating systems, and like any digital device, they suffer from memory leaks, stalled processes, or corrupted configurations. Over time, performance degrades—download speeds drop, page loads hang, and devices struggle to stay connected. A reset clears the device’s memory and restarts the OS from scratch. This simple action resolves memory overflow and software loop errors that no amount of rebooting can fix.

Restoring Default Settings After a Failed Software Update

Firmware updates don’t always process smoothly. A power interruption mid-update or a corrupted firmware file can brick functionalities—leaving interfaces inaccessible or specific features like port forwarding disabled. Resetting the router to factory defaults reloads the baseline firmware configuration, allowing you to regain access and apply updates cleanly. Routers from manufacturers like Netgear or ASUS often require this step to enter recovery mode as well.

Enhancing Security

Resetting a router plays a measurable role in network security. Legacy configurations may retain outdated encryption protocols (like WEP or WPA) or unused DHCP reservations, creating potential attack vectors. By returning the device to factory defaults, all obsolete credentials and stale forwardings are erased. The reset dismantles lingering backdoors created by malware-infected settings or rogue SSIDs, drastically reducing the attack surface.

Preparing the Device for Resale or Transfer

Passing on a router without resetting it leaks more than just your Wi-Fi password. Saved DNS settings, MAC filters, SSID names, and admin credentials can reveal usage patterns and personal data. Hard resetting the unit before handing it off wipes all user-stored configurations, stripping the device of digital fingerprints and ensuring the next user receives it as a clean slate.

Troubleshooting Advanced Internet Problems

Occasionally, the issue isn’t your ISP but your router’s internal routing table or NAT settings. When latency spikes persist despite modem resets, or specific devices can’t reach certain services, residual configurations built up over months may be the cause. Performing a reset removes these accumulated conflicts—particularly port conflicts, static routing errors, or QoS misrules—and rebuilds a proper routing workflow.

Reconnecting Smart Home Devices and TVs After Network Errors

Smart plugs, security cameras, and streaming devices often cache IP assignments and SSID bindings. When a router changes its IP configuration or experiences DHCP corruption, these devices disconnected once may fail to reconnect. A reset reinitializes the DHCP lease table and erases incorrect mappings, allowing all smart devices to unify under a consistent network layout once again.

Understanding the Differences Between Soft and Hard Resets

Soft Reset: A Reboot Without Data Loss

Performing a soft reset targets the router’s operating memory. It acts like a system refresh, clearing temporary configurations, stalled processes, and dropped packets without deleting settings such as custom IP configurations, Wi-Fi network names, or passwords. If a device fails to connect, if the internet lags intermittently, or if DNS responses stall, a soft reset can restore router function without disrupting configuration data.

This type of reset reboots the router’s runtime environment without affecting long-term stored data. By cycling power or using the router's web interface to restart it, you eliminate minor software errors that accumulate over time. There's no need to re-enter credentials or reconfigure NAT, port forwarding, or wireless security protocols. In practice, it's the fastest method to restore connectivity while keeping the system intact.

Hard Reset: Full Factory Restore

In contrast, a hard reset—also called a factory reset—deletes all user-defined settings and reverts the router back to its original firmware configuration. This action wipes saved SSIDs, custom admin passwords, firewall rules, MAC address filters, dynamic DNS entries, and more. It initiates a full system flush that removes accidental misconfigurations, persistent looping errors, or software corruptions that can't be solved by restarting the device.

Hard resets are triggered either through a dedicated reset pinhole button on the device or via the controller interface, often holding the button for a defined number of seconds (usually 10 to 30). After a hard reset, the router boots as if it's fresh from the box—no login credentials, no port settings, and not even a network name. This method becomes necessary when firmware updates fail, system credentials are lost, or major security issues occur that affect all interface layers.

What to Do Before You Reset: Smart Precautions to Take

Resetting your router wipes the slate clean—but before taking that step, collecting key information and making a few checks will prevent unnecessary hassle. Here’s how to prepare effectively.

1. Record Your Wi-Fi Network Name and Password

Once reset, your router will delete all custom configurations. This includes your SSID (network name) and Wi-Fi password. Write both down manually or take screenshots from your settings page. If you’re using a guest network or multiple SSIDs, include those as well.

2. Back Up Existing Router Settings

Access your router’s web interface—typically by entering its IP address like 192.168.1.1 into a browser—and find the “Backup” or “Export Settings” option. On newer models released in 2025, many manufacturers also allow configuration backups via their official apps. Save the backup file to a secure folder on your computer or cloud storage.

3. Disconnect Non-Essential Devices

Power off or disconnect smart TVs, voice assistants, speakers, printers, and other IoT devices. Fewer active connections during a reset reduces the chance of network interference and prevents these devices from attempting reconnection using outdated credentials.

4. Check for Firmware or Software Updates

Before resetting, visit the router’s admin panel and scan for firmware updates. Some connectivity issues stem from outdated firmware, and installing the latest version can resolve them without needing a reset. For routers introduced in 2025, automatic update options are standard but still worth confirming manually.

5. Rule Out Issues With Your ISP

Use your ISP’s status tools or mobile app to verify whether there's an outage in your area. You can also run a speed test or directly connect your modem to a laptop using an Ethernet cable to test service integrity. If the problem originates from your provider, a reset won’t offer a solution.

Once these precautions are complete, move forward knowing that your configurations are preserved, your network has been documented, and you're not resetting as a first resort without due cause.

How to Perform a Soft Reset on Your Router in 2025: Step-by-Step

Using the Physical Power Button

Several router models released in 2025 include a dedicated power button, often located on the back panel. Here's how to use it to perform a soft reset:

This method preserves custom settings such as SSID names, passwords, and port forwarding rules while refreshing the router's internal processes.

Unplugging and Replugging the Router

When no power button is available, a manual power cycle via unplugging serves as an effective soft reset.

Unplugging is a universally compatible method regardless of brand or model and often resolves temporary connectivity issues.

Soft Reset via Router Admin Web Interface

Accessing the router’s admin panel allows for greater control during a soft reset. This option is ideal for users comfortable with web-based configuration.

This soft reset process does not erase saved settings but can help resolve software glitches and slow throughput.

Soft Reset via Router App (2025 Models)

Leading manufacturers like Netgear, ASUS, and TP-Link include mobile apps with enhanced reset functionalities in their 2025 models. To reset through the app:

These apps are designed to streamline device management and offer real-time feedback during and after the reset process.

Hard Reset Your Router: A Step-by-Step Method for 2025 Models

Reset Button Pin-Hole Method

On the back or bottom of most 2025 routers, you’ll find a small pin-hole labeled “Reset”. This button triggers a full factory reset, completely wiping all custom settings.

Hard Reset via Router Admin Interface

If you still have access to the router’s admin panel (either web interface or mobile app), initiating a hard reset from the software is cleaner and avoids manual mishandling.

Hold Duration for Physical Resets

Manufacturers in 2025 have standardized reset durations across many models:

Reset Confirmation Indicators on 2025 Routers

Instead of ambiguous LED flashes, modern routers like the Netgear Nighthawk 2025 or TP-Link AX line display clear visual confirmations:

Watch your router’s specific LED behavior. Did the lights flash, switch colors, or follow a distinctive sequence? These visual clues confirm whether the hard reset was properly executed.

Reset Methods for Popular Router Brands in 2025

TP-Link

TP-Link routers provide both physical and app-based reset options. For a soft reset, open the Tether app or log in via a web browser using the router’s local IP address (usually 192.168.0.1 or tplinkwifi.net). Navigate to Advanced > System Tools > Reboot.

Performing a hard reset requires holding the Reset/WPS button—typically located on the back panel—using a pin for 10 seconds until the power LED blinks rapidly. Newer models display a status ring or digital screen indicating progress.

Netgear

Netgear routers in 2025 continue to support both manual and app-based resets. To soft reset, launch the Nighthawk app or access routerlogin.net, then go to Settings > Router Settings > Reboot.

For a hard reset, use a paperclip to press the Reset button located inside a recessed port. Hold for exactly 7 seconds until LEDs flash orange, then release. Unlike earlier models, new Nighthawk units show detailed reboot messages on their OLED displays.

ASUS

Accessing the ASUS router user interface via router.asus.com or the ASUS Router mobile app enables a soft reset under Administration > System > Reboot.

The hard reset button, labeled “Reset,” sits next to the power inlet. Press and hold for 10 to 15 seconds until the power LED turns off and then back on. Premium models like the RT-AX89X provide RGB-feedback lighting to indicate status during reset.

Linksys

Launch the Linksys app or enter 192.168.1.1 via a browser to run a soft reboot under Connectivity > Restart.

Hard resets require holding the reset button on the bottom side of the router with a pointed object. Hold for exactly 10 seconds until the front-facing light rapidly blinks. The newest Velop series integrates haptic feedback and multi-color LEDs to mark the reset stages clearly.

Google Nest Wi-Fi

Google Home app is the only interface for soft resets. From the app's device settings, tap Restart Device to initiate the soft reboot.

For a hard reset, unplug the unit, then press and hold the reset button. Plug it back in while holding the button for about 10 seconds until a white LED light begins to pulse. A voice assistant confirms the reset has started, offering a user-friendly touch.

Amazon Eero

Use the Eero app for a soft reset: tap on the device icon, select Advanced, then choose Restart Eero.

To perform a hard reset, press and hold the Eero’s button (located on the back) until the LED turns red. Hold for 15 seconds until the light flashes blue. LED behavior shifts from red to blue to white, confirming that the reset process is underway and completed.

ISP-Provided Routers (Xfinity, AT&T, Verizon)

Variations in Reset Approach

Router manufacturers differ in how they implement resets:

Each brand integrates reset capabilities differently, so relying solely on visual cues or legacy instructions will not align with 2025 standards.

Post-Reset Configuration Steps to Get Your Network Running Again

Reconnect to the Default Wi-Fi Network

After a reset, the router broadcasts a default SSID and password. These default credentials are printed directly on the router’s label, typically on the underside or back panel. Look for phrases like SSID, Network Name, and Wireless Password or simply Password. On most models, this default network is open or uses WPA2/WPA3 encryption with a default passphrase unique to each unit.

Use your smartphone or computer to connect to this temporary network. Without this step, you won’t be able to access the admin interface or continue with device reconnections.

Log in to the Router’s Admin Panel

Once connected to the default network, open a browser and type the router's default IP address into the address bar. In most cases, this is 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1, though some brands now use routerlogin.net or myrouter.local.

Use the default admin credentials to log in. These are also listed on the router label. In many 2025 models, the first login prompts you to create a new admin password and configure network basics during an automatic setup wizard.

Customize SSID, Password, and Parental Controls

These settings are usually found under menu sections like Wireless Settings, Security, or Access Control depending on the router’s interface.

Reconnect Smart Devices, Apps, TVs, and Printers

After setting your new SSID and password, manually reconnect all previously linked smart home devices. Smart bulbs, thermostats, printers, TVs, voice assistants, and surveillance systems won’t rejoin the network until updated with the new credentials. Open each device’s companion app or settings menu to re-enter the Wi-Fi login info.

Some smart devices may require a factory reset if they don't support re-scanning for a new SSID. Prioritize re-adding security-relevant hardware like doorlocks and IP cameras first, then move on to entertainment or productivity tools.

Restore Advanced Settings: Port Forwarding, VPNs, QoS

If your network depends on custom configuration—such as gaming consoles needing port forwarding, remote work setups using VPN passthroughs, or prioritized bandwidth via Quality of Service (QoS)—restore those manually one by one.

Keep a record of these settings in a local file or cloud storage to streamline future router resets across devices and firmware versions.

Default Router Login Credentials After a Reset

Default Usernames and Passwords by Brand

After performing a hard reset, routers revert to factory default settings, including login credentials. The default username is usually admin, and the password might be admin, password, or left blank. However, these vary depending on the manufacturer and model.

Vendors continue to follow these default combinations as of 2025 unless users or ISPs pre-configure devices with custom credentials during provisioning.

Finding Credentials on the Device or in Documentation

Look at the back or underside of the router. A label typically lists the default SSID, Wi-Fi password, hardware version, and login credentials. If that sticker is missing or unclear, the official user manual for your router model lists default settings. These manuals are usually available on the manufacturer’s support site—search by model number for accurate results.

When the device is provided by an Internet Service Provider, check the installation documentation or ISP-branded label—it often overrides the standard manufacturer defaults with ISP-specific credentials.

How to Change and Secure Router Login Credentials

After accessing the router interface using the default credentials, update the login info to prevent unauthorized access. Here’s how to do that:

Updating the login credentials immediately after a reset closes the most common backdoor used in router-based attacks. It also ensures that reconfiguring the network afterward is done under secure conditions.

Reset Complete? Here's What to Remember

Soft and hard resets serve different purposes, and choosing the right one depends on the nature of the problem. A soft reset refreshes the connection without altering custom settings, while a hard reset restores the router to factory defaults, wiping all configurations clean.

Start with a soft reset if you're troubleshooting intermittent drops or odd performance spikes. If that doesn't cut it, a full hard reset can eliminate legacy errors, corrupt settings, or conflicts introduced by outdated firmware.

Backing up your router’s configuration before a hard reset ensures a smoother recovery. Most modern routers let you export current settings to a file—use this feature before diving into a full reset.

In many cases, a router reset restores normal internet function without the need for a field technician or long calls with customer support. Whether you're fixing DNS failures, IP conflicts, or blank admin panels, resets often restore stability immediately.

After finishing the reset, always log into the router and check for firmware updates. Vendors routinely push upgrades for better security, improved speed, and enhanced compatibility with new devices. Updated firmware prevents reoccurring problems and maximizes long-term performance.

Need a moment to assess your setup now? Ask yourself: did I back up my configuration file? Have I accessed the admin dashboard since the reset? Are all key devices reconnected and functional?

Each of those steps closes the loop on a reset process that—when executed correctly—makes your entire network faster, safer, and more reliable.