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How to Reset the Dlink DIR-868L

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Setup Router Staff
(Last Updated: ) | Reading Time: 3 minutes

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:

Reset the Dlink DIR-868L

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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.

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  • 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.

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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.

router reset factory settings
This is the reset page from your Dlink DIR-868L router.

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.

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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: