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How to Reset the Linksys RV016

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

On this page I will show you how to properly reset the Linksys RV016 router back to factory defaults. This is not the same thing as a reboot. When you reboot a router you simply cycle the power to the unit. When you reset a router you take all the settings and return them to factory defaults. This erases all your personal configurations.

Warning: A reset like the one described here is a big step and should not be taken lightly. It is a good idea to write down all the possible settings you have changed in the past. These may include settings such as:

  • The router's main username and password used to access the router setup pages.
  • Any port forwarding you have done.
  • IP addresses that have been changed.
  • Parental controls, DNS, etc...

Other Linksys RV016 Guides

This is the reset router guide for the Linksys RV016. We also have the following guides for the same router:

Reset the Linksys RV016

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Below is an image of the front panel. On the right I have circled the reset button for you in red.

router reset factory settings
This is the reset page from your Linksys RV016 router.

First be sure the Linksys RV016 router is on. Then take a straightened paperclip and press down on the reset button for about 10 seconds. The Diag LED light will flash quickly until the reset is complete. If you don't hold the reset button down for long enough you will end up rebooting the router instead of resetting it like you wanted.

Warning: DO NOT unplug or turn off the router during the reset process. Doing so will cause permanent damage to the device.

Don't forget a reset like this one described here erases every single setting you have ever changed in the past. Please exhaust your other troubleshooting methods before you continue with this reset.

Login to the Linksys RV016

Once the router has been reset you will need to use the default IP address, username, and admin to login to it. We have found this information for you and included it in our Login Guide for the Linksys RV016 router.

Tip: Defaults not working? You might not have held down the reset button for long enough when you reset the router.

Change Your Password

Now that you have accessed the router you should change the password to something more secure. Try to make your password unique and 14-20 characters long. If you need any additional advice on making a secure password, visit our Choosing a Strong Password guide.

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

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Linksys RV016 Help

Be sure to check out our other Linksys RV016 info that you might be interested in.

This is the reset router guide for the Linksys RV016. We also have the following guides for the same router: