How to Reset the Dlink DSL-2540U

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

On this page we will be showing you how to reset the Dlink DSL-2540U router back to it's original factory defaults. This is not the same thing as a reboot. When you reboot something you cycle the power to the unit. This will solve a lot of the problems you may encounter with this device. When you reset router you take all the settings and return them all to factory defaults.

Warning: This means every single setting you have ever changed is reverted back to the original factory defaults. Making a list of the settings you have changed in the past is a great idea. Consider the following:

  • The router's main username and password used to access the web interface is erased and reverted back to factory defaults.
  • If you have made any other changes such as port forwards or IP addresses be sure to reconfigure these later.

Other Dlink DSL-2540U Guides

This is the reset router guide for the Dlink DSL-2540U. We also have the following guides for the same router:

Reset the Dlink DSL-2540U

Turn this router around so you are looking at the back panel of the device. The reset button/pinhole is located here. I have circled it's location for you in the image below.

router reset factory settings
This is the reset page from your Dlink DSL-2540U router.

Take a straight paperclip or sharpened pencil and press down on the reset button for about 10 seconds to begin the reset process. If you don't hold this button down for long enough you end up only rebooting the unit instead of resetting it like you wanted.

Don't forget that this reset erases all your personal configurations. To avoid this inevitable loss you should try other methods of fixing your router before you decide to reset it.

Login to the Dlink DSL-2540U

After you've reset the Dlink DSL-2540U router you'll need to log into it. This is accomplished by using the factory default username and password. Not sure where to find these? We have them listed for you in our Login Guide.

Tip: If the defaults don't seem to be working for you it might 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 for it. This can be whatever you like, however keep in mind that a strong password is 14-20 characters in length and includes no personal information. For more helpful hints be sure to visit our Choosing a Strong Password Guide.

Tip: To keep from losing your new password try writing it on a note and attaching it the bottom of your router.

Dlink DSL-2540U Help

Be sure to check out our other Dlink DSL-2540U info that you might be interested in.

This is the reset router guide for the Dlink DSL-2540U. We also have the following guides for the same router: