How to Reset a Modem and Router: Step-by-Step Guide

To reset a modem and router, unplug both devices, wait at least 60 seconds, power on the modem first, and start the router only after the modem reconnects. Use a factory reset only when a normal restart fails or you need to erase the router’s saved settings.

What Is the Difference Between a Soft Reset and a Factory Reset?

A soft reset, also called a restart or power cycle, turns the equipment off and back on without deleting its settings. This is the safest first step when the internet is slow, devices cannot connect, or the connection drops repeatedly.

A factory reset returns a router to its original configuration. It normally erases the current Wi-Fi name, Wi-Fi password, administrator password, parental controls, port-forwarding rules, and other custom settings.

• Use a soft reset for most temporary connection problems.
• Use a factory reset when you cannot access the router because its administrator credentials are lost, its configuration is damaged, or support specifically asks you to reset it.
• Do not factory-reset provider equipment unless you know how it will be activated and configured again.

If you are searching for how to reset a modem router without losing settings, start with a power cycle. Pressing the recessed Reset button is a different action and may require a full setup afterward.

How Do You Power Cycle a Modem and Router?

Before you reset a modem and router, identify each device. The modem connects your home to the internet service, while the router creates the wired and Wi-Fi network used by your devices. Some homes have one combined unit instead.

1. Save any work that depends on the internet. Everyone using the connection will be disconnected during the restart.
2. Unplug the router’s power cord. If the router has a battery backup, follow its documented shutdown procedure.
3. Unplug the modem’s power cord. Do not disconnect coaxial, fiber, phone, or Ethernet cables unless you are checking for a loose connection.
4. Wait at least 60 seconds. This gives the equipment time to shut down fully and allows the provider connection to clear.
5. Plug the modem back into power first.
6. Wait for the modem to reconnect. This can take several minutes. The exact light names vary, but the power and internet-related indicators should become steady or show their normal connected pattern.
7. Plug the router back into power only after the modem is connected.
8. Wait several more minutes for the router and Wi-Fi network to start.
9. Reconnect one phone or computer and test a familiar internet service. If that works, reconnect the remaining devices.

The order matters when learning how to reset modem and router equipment: modem first, router second. Starting the router too early can leave it waiting for a connection that the modem has not finished establishing.

How Do You Factory Reset the Router?

A factory reset permanently removes the router’s customized settings. Before starting, record the current network name and any settings you will need to recreate. Check the router label or its official instructions for the default sign-in information and exact reset procedure.

1. Keep the router connected to power and wait until it has finished starting.
2. Find the small recessed button labeled Reset. Do not confuse it with a WPS, Wi-Fi, or power button.
3. Use a paper clip or similar narrow object to press and hold Reset.
4. Continue holding until the router lights change or flash. Many routers require about 10 seconds, but the correct time varies, so use the manufacturer’s instructions when available.
5. Release the button and allow several minutes for the router to restart. Do not unplug it during this process.
6. Connect using the default details printed on the device label or provided in its official documentation.
7. Create a new administrator password, restore the Wi-Fi name and password, and reapply any other settings you need.

If the router does not respond, do not repeatedly press unknown buttons. Confirm that the unit has power and that the button you found is actually the factory-reset control.

How Do You Reset a Combo Modem-Router Device?

A combo modem-router, sometimes called a gateway, handles both the provider connection and the home network in one device. To soft-reset a combo device, unplug its power, wait at least 60 seconds, plug it back in, and allow it to reconnect completely.

The recessed Reset button on a gateway may erase Wi-Fi settings and provider-specific configuration. Some provider-issued gateways restore settings automatically, while others require activation or setup. Because the process varies, check the provider’s instructions before performing a factory reset.

If the combo device also provides voice service or contains a backup battery, unplugging the power cord alone may not shut it down. Follow the provider’s documented restart method rather than removing a battery without instructions.

What Should You Check After Resetting the Modem and Router?

After you reset modem router equipment, check the connection in a simple order so one device does not hide the real problem.

• Confirm that power, connection, and internet indicators show their normal pattern. A red, unlit, or endlessly blinking connection light may point to a line or service problem.
• Check that Ethernet and service cables are firmly seated and undamaged.
• Make sure your phone or computer joined the correct Wi-Fi network.
• If you performed a factory reset, use the restored default network details and then configure a new Wi-Fi name and password.
• Turn Wi-Fi off and back on on the test device, or remove the saved network and reconnect with the current password.
• Test a second device. If only one device fails, troubleshoot that device rather than resetting the network again.
• If possible, connect a computer by Ethernet. A working wired connection with failed Wi-Fi suggests a router or wireless-setting problem.

If no device connects, check whether the provider reports an outage in your area. Avoid repeated factory resets because they erase settings without repairing a failed line or service interruption.

When Should You Contact Internet or Router Support?

Contact the internet provider when the modem never reaches its normal connected state, an outage is reported, the service cable appears damaged, activation is required, or every device remains offline after a correct power cycle.

Contact the router manufacturer when the modem is connected but the router will not power on, broadcast Wi-Fi, accept its documented default credentials, or complete setup after a factory reset. If the provider supplied the router or gateway, start with the provider because it may manage the equipment.

Before contacting support, note which lights are on or blinking, when the problem began, whether wired and wireless devices are affected, and which reset steps you completed. Keep account verification details available, but never send passwords or security codes unless you are using a verified support channel.