How to Reset Your Wi‑Fi Router: Step‑By‑Step Guide to Fix Slow Internet
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How to Reset Your Wi‑Fi Router: Step‑By‑Step Guide to Fix Slow Internet

8th December 2025

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Introduction

If your Wi-Fi has slowed down, stopped responding, or you have forgotten your login password, a reset may be the simplest way to get things back on track. Knowing how to reset Wi-Fi router devices is helpful in solving many common connectivity issues. This guide explains how to reset a Wi-Fi router step by step, how to change a Wi-Fi password, what happens when you do, and how to fix problems that may appear afterwards.

What Does Resetting a Wi‑Fi Router Mean?

There are two kinds of resets:

  • Restart (soft reset): A power cycle reconnects your router to your ISP, clears temporary memory, and doesn't change any settings.
  • A hard restart, also called a factory reset: Gets rid of all of your router's custom settings and returns it to the way it was when it was first made. You should use it when your password slips your mind or the computer has major problems.

Knowing the difference helps you pick the best treatment for your case.

How to Reset a Wi‑Fi Router?

Factory Reset Using the Reset Button

  1. Find the Button: Most routers have a small reset button on the back or bottom that is set into the shape of the router.
  2. Press and hold: With the router on, use a paperclip to press the button for 15 to 30 seconds.
  3. Wait: Let the computer restart by releasing the button. It will set the original settings.
  4. Reconnect: Use the default network name and password written on the router to sign in and then set your own credentials.

Restart (Soft Reset) via Power Cycle

  1. Unplug the router: Unplug the gadget and turn off the power.
  2. Wait for thirty seconds: This clears the caches and makes sure the computer completely shuts down.
  3. Plug it back in: Plug the router back in and let it restart. This fixes most small slowdowns.

Other Ways to Reset

  • Web interface: Go to the router's control page (most likely 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1), look for system settings, and choose "factory reset."
  • Mobile app: A lot of companies make apps, like TP-Link Tether and Netgear Nighthawk. In the app, go to settings and then reset.
  • Change the Wi-Fi password: Go to the admin page and change the Wi-Fi passphrase in the wireless settings section. You don't need to restart the whole router.

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Restart vs Reset - What's the Difference?

  • Restart: Clears temporary memory and reconnects to your ISP to fix small problems right away. The settings are still the way they were.
  • Reset: This puts the router back to how it was when it first came out of the box. It erases your customised network name and password, as well as any other advanced settings you may have changed.

Knowing which option you need prevents unnecessary reconfiguration.

Troubleshooting After Reset

  • Why Won't My Router Work After I Reset It? After a factory reset, your router goes back to its default settings. This means you must log in using the default username and password printed on the router. If you are entering the wrong details, it will not work. Verify that your internet line is active and that the cables are secure if you are still unable to connect.
  • Why Is My Router Not Connecting to the Internet? If your router is on but not connecting, the issue may be with the IP address configuration. Routers sometimes use different IP addresses, which can stop the login page from loading. Make sure you are connected to your Wi-Fi and check the correct IP address for your model.
  • Why Are the Lights on My Router Still Blinking? Blinking lights indicate that your router is trying to establish a connection. This behaviour is normal for a few minutes after a reset. If the lights keep blinking for much longer, it may mean your router is unable to communicate with the ISP. In this case, try restarting the router again or contact support.

Reconnecting Devices After Reset

  1. Find the default SSID and password on the router sticker.
  2. Connect each device to this network using the default password.
  3. Reconfigure settings by logging into the admin page. Change the SSID and password to something memorable, and adjust any advanced options as desired.
  4. Re-enter credentials on all of your devices to reconnect them to the new network.

Final CTA - Still Facing Issues? Get Reliable Internet

If you've tried these resets and reboots but still have connectivity problems, the trouble might lie outside your router. A high‑quality broadband connection like Tata Play Fiber can reduce dropouts and deliver consistent speeds. Explore Tata Play Fiber plans for a smooth, hassle‑free internet experience.

FAQ Section

Frequently Asked Questions

How many times should I reset my router?

Resetting should be done only when necessary. If you find yourself resetting regularly, it may be time to update your router or check for line issues.

How to reset Wi-Fi router password?

To change your Wi-Fi password, log in to the router’s admin panel using its IP address. From there, go to the wireless settings section and update your password. If you cannot log in, perform a hard reset and use the default details, then set a new password. Knowing how to change Wi-Fi passwords ensures your network stays secure.

How long should you unplug your router to reset it?

When performing a simple reboot, unplugging the router for 30 to 60 seconds is usually enough. This gives the device time to power down completely before you reconnect it.

Does resetting the router remove connected devices?

Yes, a factory reset will remove all connected devices because the Wi-Fi name and password return to their default settings. After the reset, each device will need to connect again using the updated login details.

Will resetting affect my ISP settings?

A simple reboot will not affect ISP settings. A factory reset, however, may require you to reconfigure them. Keep your ISP details ready before performing a reset so you can quickly set up the connection again.

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