Resetting your Wi-Fi router can help you get rid of firmware issues, configurable problems, and many other issues. However, many think of this process as something risky and complex. Fortunately, it is easy to reset the device if you have a Verizon router.

    In this guide, you will find the easy steps to reset your Verizon router for all potential reasons. I will also go through a few things you should do after the reset.

    Quick Ways to Reset Verizon Router

    You can reset your Verizon router using two methods. First, you can use the reset button on the back of the router to force reset the device and reset the Wi-Fi password and existing configurations. Or, if you like to keep the existing configuration, you can soft reset/restart the router.

    Reasons to Reset Verizon Router

    Here are some everyday situations that may require you to reset your Verizon router.

    The most common reason to reset your Verizon router is to fix various network issues that may arise occasionally. These issues could involve the Wi-Fi network or the Ethernet connection. Similarly, if you have changed some internal settings, you can roll them back through a reset.

    Reasons to Reset Verizon Router

    Another reason is a practice/habit, which I highly recommend, to improve the performance of the Wi-Fi router and address slow Internet speed. This might be necessary if you have been using your Verizon router for a couple of years and notice a decline in Internet speed despite paying a significant amount for your plan.

    Finally, you need to reset your Verizon router if you accidentally forget the password. Instead of attempting random passwords and risking being locked out, resetting the router allows you to start afresh. When you reset a router, it will roll back to factory settings, including the default SSID and password.

    Types of Resets

    Fortunately, you have two options to reset your Verizon Wi-Fi router, depending on the situation.

    Soft Reset

    One option is a soft reset, also called a Restart. This method allows you to reset your router without changing the configuration, but you will need access to the user control panel for the best results. I recommend this method if you are resetting the router to improve the speed of the Wi-Fi network.

    By following this recommended practice, you can achieve a better-performing Wi-Fi network without risking data loss or the inconvenience of setting everything up from scratch.

    Hard Reset

    The second option is a hard reset, also known as factory resetting your router. You can do this by logging into the user control panel or using the reset button located on the back of the router.

    With this method, you return the device to its factory state, meaning that all your preferences will be lost. For instance, custom names you have given to the Wi-Fi network or any device filtering system you have enabled will be reset.

    This method is the best if you want a clean slate to work with on your Verizon router. Compared to the soft reset method, the hard reset can solve most connectivity issues and enable a smooth experience from your Verizon plan.

    Preparations Before Resetting

    Whether you opt for a hard or soft reset, keep the following points in mind:

    1. Make sure that you have backed up important settings, such as the Wi-Fi SSID and the passwords for these networks.
    2. Understand the default IP address of the router and the credentials you need to sign in to the dashboard.
    3. Locate the default Wi-Fi network details, which you can find on the bottom or rear portion of your router or in the user manual that Verizon provided during installation.

    Once you have done these, you can proceed with the reset process.

    Best Method to Reset Verizon Router

    Below, you will find the best method to reset Verizon router models for both Soft Reset and Hard Reset. You must remember that the exact steps may vary based on the Verizon router model. However, you can refer to the user manual if you have any questions.

    #1 Soft Reset

    You can use two methods to soft reset/restart your Verizon Wi-Fi router. I recommend the first option since it follows the whole cycle.

    Using the Router Interface:

    To restart your Verizon router using the router interface,

    • Open the Wi-Fi router interface by going to the default IP address
    • Log in using the credentials and navigate to System Settings
    Reset Verizon Router with Soft Reset - Using the Router Interface
    • Locate the Restart or Soft-Reset button.
    • Click the button and wait for the router to complete the restart.

    Once the device is back on, you should have a better internet experience.

    Using the Hardware Button:

    To use the hardware method,

    1. Locate the power button of the Verizon router, which could be on the front or the rear.
    2. Turn off the router by pressing the Power button. Wait for the device to restart.

    Because this method interrupts the router, you may not have the best results. But this method is more convenient.

    #2 Hard Reset

    As I mentioned before, hard resetting or factory resetting your Verizon Wi-Fi router will take some time, and you need to be patient. You have two methods to achieve this.

    Using the Reset Button

    • Begin by locating the reset button, which is not very prominent on the back of the Verizon router. This button needs to be accessed using a SIM ejector tool or a paper clip.
    •  Once you locate it, press and hold the button for up to 20 seconds until you see the router light flashing.
    Reset Verizon Router with Hard Reset - Using the Reset Button
    • After initiating the process, you will need to wait approximately 5 to 10 minutes for the router to completely reset and then boot up as though it were starting for the first time.

    Using the Router Interface:

    In this method, you need more time to complete the reset process. You also need access to some credentials. So, if you do not remember the router interface password, you are out of luck. The steps are:

    • Log into the Wi-Fi router interface using the provided credentials
    • Go to System and find an option named Reset or Factory Reset
    Reset Verizon Router with Hard Reset - Using the Router Interface
    • Confirm the action when asked to.

    The router will take a few minutes to reboot and reset. During this time, the existing Wi-Fi network will be removed. You have to set everything up once the reset is complete.

    How To Set up Router After Reset

    You do not need these steps if you have performed a soft reset of the Wi-Fi router. The soft reset does not change existing configurations, allowing you to use the network as before.

    On the other hand, if you performed a factory reset, follow the steps below for the best experience with Verizon Internet:

    #1 Find the Default Credentials:

    Locate the default credentials to connect to the existing network and the router web interface. If you cannot find the Wi-Fi details, use a wired network to access the router interface.

    Find the Default Credentials After Reset

    #2 Basic Setup:

    • Set up the new network name (SSID) for your Wi-Fi system. Choose something unique to avoid confusion. You can choose a different SSID for 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi networks.
    Basic Setup After Reset
    • Ensure you select a secure and difficult-to-guess Wi-Fi password. Using a common password like 12345678 can be more dangerous than you think.

    #3 Advanced Settings (optional)

    Adjust features like port forwarding, additional security settings, or parental control options.

    #4 Save the Settings

    After making these changes, save the settings. The router may restart if you have changed the Wi-Fi SSID or the password.

    Save the Settings After Reset

    Remain patient throughout the process, and your wireless router should be working fine in just a few minutes.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How often should I reboot my Verizon router?

    I recommend rebooting your Verizon router at least once a month. Like other devices, your Verizon router can also accumulate junk files, which reduces the performance and speed. By regularly rebooting the Wi-Fi router, you can solve this potential issue.

    What to do after resetting a router?

    You should set up the Wi-Fi network after resetting a router. This will be necessary if you have opted for the factory reset option. On the other hand, a soft reset of your router does not require many changes. Existing configurations on the router will be safe.

    Does unplugging a router reset it?

    Unplugging a router does not reset it. The process will only restart the device, which is still a good habit. But if you want to reset the Wi-Fi password or solve network-level problems, you have to factory reset the Wi-Fi router using the web interface or the Reset button.

    Conclusion

    All the steps I have provided above are practical and easy when it comes to resetting your Verizon router.

    Sure, you may need some tweaks based on the model number, but the core idea remains the same. I have tried these steps on Verizon Coaxial Routers and FiOS Routers, and the results were great.

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    Pavan Lipare is a tech enthusiast specializing in routers, WiFi networks, LAN setups, and internet connectivity. With hands-on experience in network optimization and troubleshooting, he ensures seamless and secure digital communication. Passionate about emerging networking technologies, he simplifies complex connectivity challenges with practical solutions.

    5 Comments

    1. Hey, just wanted to drop in and say this guide on resetting Verizon routers was a total lifesaver! I’ve been having some serious lag issues with my home network, especially when I’m in back-to-back video meetings. I wasn’t sure if a soft or hard reset was the way to go, but you laid out the options clearly. Opted for the soft reset and it’s smooth sailing so far. Your step-by-step instructions were super easy to follow too. Cheers!

      • Hey Samantha, quick one for you – did you notice any settings gettin wiped with the soft reset? kinda scared to try it. thnx!

        • Hi RJ, no worries! A soft reset doesn’t wipe any of your router’s settings or configurations—it just reboots the device to clear up minor glitches. Your Wi-Fi name, password, and other settings will stay intact. It’s a quick and safe way to troubleshoot issues without disrupting your setup. Let me know if you need more clarity!

    2. Did anyone actually try the hard reset? Wonder if it messes up the internet for a bit. Living with roomies and don’t wanna be ‘that person’, haha.

      • Yes, a hard reset does temporarily interrupt the internet as it restores the router to its factory settings. It takes about 2-5 minutes for the router to reboot and reconnect. If you’re sharing the network, it’s a good idea to let your roommates know beforehand. Also, keep your ISP login details handy, just in case you need to reconfigure the connection.

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