On this page I will be showing you how to properly reset the Dlink DIR-868L router back to factory defaults. It needs to be noted that this is not the same thing as a reboot. When I use the word reboot on this page I am referring to a cycle in the power of the device. Nothing is changed during a reboot. When I use the word reset I am referring to a complete factory restore of all settings. A lot of settings could be changed in a reset of the Dlink DIR-868L.
Warnings: Don't take a reset lightly it is a big step. Things you need to consider before deciding to reset are:
- The router's main username and password are reverted back to factory defaults.
- The Internet name and password are also reverted back to factory defaults.
- If you use a DSL router you will need to re-enter the ISP or Internet Service Provider username and password. Call your local ISP for these details.
- Have you made any other changes to this router such as port forwards or IP address changes? Write these down so you remember to set them up again after the reset is finished.
Other Dlink DIR-868L Guides
This is the reset router guide for the Dlink DIR-868L. We also have the following guides for the same router:
- Dlink DIR-868L - Dlink DIR-868L Login Instructions
- Dlink DIR-868L - Dlink DIR-868L User Manual
- Dlink DIR-868L - Dlink DIR-868L Port Forwarding Instructions
- Dlink DIR-868L - How to change the IP Address on a Dlink DIR-868L router
- Dlink DIR-868L - Setup WiFi on the Dlink DIR-868L
- Dlink DIR-868L - Information About the Dlink DIR-868L Router
- Dlink DIR-868L - Dlink DIR-868L Screenshots
Reset the Dlink DIR-868L
Use a VPN Instead
Have you considered using a VPN instead of forwarding a port? For most users, a VPN is a much simpler and more secure choice than forwarding a port.
We use and recommend NordVPN because not only is it the fastest VPN, it includes a new feature called Meshnet that makes forwarding a port no longer necessary for most applications. With NordVPN Meshnet, you can connect to your devices from anywhere in the world, completely secure, over a highly encrypted VPN tunnel.
When shopping for a VPN, make sure that they meet the following criteria:
- Your VPN provider should have a no-logs policy. This means that they do not keep any logs of any kind.
- Make sure that your VPN provider has lots of exit nodes all around the world.
- Check that your VPN will not affect your speed.
- Verify that your VPN provider uses WireGuard as the underlying protocol.
- Many people prefer a VPN provider that is not based in the United States.
This is the list of requirements that we used when we were shopping around for a VPN provider. There are lots of free, shady VPN providers out there that we looked at and dismissed.
Based in Panama, using diskless servers, and with over 6,100 servers in 61 countries, we can safely say that NordVPN satisfies all of these requirements.
Once you've set up your NordVPN account on multiple computers and enabled Meshnet, you can seamlessly access all of your devices as if they were on the same network. You don't even have to log in to your router. It's very simple.
Every time you click on one of our affiliate links, such as NordVPN, we get a little kickback for introducing you to the service. Think of us as your VPN wingman.
The first step in any reset is to know where the reset button is located. For this model of Dlink you can find the reset button on the bottom panel of the device. Take a look at the image below.
Take the end of a bent paperclip and press down on the reset button for about 10 seconds. This starts the reset process. Make sure your router is on during the reset and if you don't hold the reset button down long enough you end up only rebooting the unit instead of resetting it like you wanted.
Remember a reset erases every single setting you have ever changed on your device. To avoid all that loss you should try other methods of fixing the problem.
Login to the Dlink DIR-868L
Once we've reset the Dlink DIR-868L router you'll need to log into it. This is done by using the factory default username and password. Not sure where to find these? We have them provided for you in our Login Guide.
Tip: If the defaults don't seem to be logging you in it could be because the reset button wasn't held down for long enough.
Change Your Password
Now that you've logged into your router we suggest setting a new password. This can be whatever you like, however keep in mind that a strong password consists of 14-20 characters in length and contains no personal information. For more help be sure to check out our Choosing a Strong Password Guide.
Tip: Avoid losing your new password by writing it on a sticky note and putting it on the bottom of your router.
Setup WiFi on the Dlink DIR-868L
It is now time to start re-configuring your router. This includes the WiFi settings. If you would like a guide on that topic take a look at our How to Setup WiFi on the Dlink DIR-868L page.
Don't forget to sign up for NordVPN's promo deal before it's gone.
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Dlink DIR-868L Help
Be sure to check out our other Dlink DIR-868L info that you might be interested in.
This is the reset router guide for the Dlink DIR-868L. We also have the following guides for the same router:
- Dlink DIR-868L - Dlink DIR-868L Login Instructions
- Dlink DIR-868L - Dlink DIR-868L User Manual
- Dlink DIR-868L - Dlink DIR-868L Port Forwarding Instructions
- Dlink DIR-868L - How to change the IP Address on a Dlink DIR-868L router
- Dlink DIR-868L - Setup WiFi on the Dlink DIR-868L
- Dlink DIR-868L - Information About the Dlink DIR-868L Router
- Dlink DIR-868L - Dlink DIR-868L Screenshots