How to Reset the Linksys befws1s4

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

Here I will explain how to properly reset the Linksys BEFW11S4v1 router back to factory defaults.

This is not the same thing as a reboot. When you reboot a router you cycle the power to the unit. Absolutely no settings are changed. A lot of times a reboot is done to solve minor behavioral problems. When you reset a router you revert all settings back to how they were when the router left the factory.

Warning: This reset erases every setting you have ever changed are you sure you want to reset the Linksys BEFW11S4v1 router? It is a good idea to make a list of all the settings that might be changed during the reset. These include the:

  • The router's interface username and password.
  • The Wireless SSID, encryption, and Internet password.
  • If this is a DSL router you need to re-enter the Internet Service Provider (ISP) username and password. You need to call your ISP for these details.
  • All other settings you have changed in the past such as port forwards or IP address changes.

Other Linksys befws1s4 Guides

This is the reset router guide for the Linksys befws1s4. We also have the following guides for the same router:

Reset the Linksys befws1s4

Take a look at the image below. I have circled the reset button for you in red.

router reset factory settings
This is the reset page from your Linksys befws1s4 router.

While the router is on take a straightened paperclip and press down on the reset button for about 10 seconds. This will start the reset process. If you don't hold the reset button down for long enough you might end up only rebooting the router instead of resetting it like you wanted.

Warning: Do not unplug or turn off the Linksys BEFW11S4v1 router during the reset process. Doing so might result in permanent damage to the device.

Be aware that this reset erases every single setting you have ever changed in the past. It is very important that you try other troubleshooting methods before you decide on a reset as your best course of action.

Login to the Linksys befws1s4

After resetting the router it is time to login to it. You will need to use the default login information, which we have compiled for you in our Linksys BEFW11S4v1 Login Guide.

Tip: If the defaults didn't work don't panic. It is likely that the router didn't properly reset. Try resetting it again, but hold down the button for a little longer.

Change Your Password

Next you should change the default password that you just used to access the router. Try to make an original password. If you need some help check out our Choosing a Strong Password guide.

Tip: Write down your new password on a piece of paper and attach it to the bottom of the router in case you forget it.

Setup WiFi on the Linksys BEFW11S4v1

When you begin re-configuring the Linksys BEFW11S4v1 router make sure to set up the wireless settings. Our WiFi Instructions for the Linksys BEFW11S4v1 router are easy to follow and will help you secure router.

Linksys befws1s4 Help

Be sure to check out our other Linksys befws1s4 info that you might be interested in.

This is the reset router guide for the Linksys befws1s4. We also have the following guides for the same router: