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How to Reset the Linksys RV042

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

If you are experiencing trouble logging into the Linksys RV042 router. It might be time to consider a reset.

A reset is not the same thing as a reboot. When you reboot a router you cycle the power to the device. No settings are changed during a reboot. When you reset a router all personal changes you have made to the router are erased and returned to factory defaults.

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 could include:

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

Other Linksys RV042 Guides

This is the reset router guide for the Linksys RV042. We also have the following guides for the same router:

Reset the Linksys RV042

Taking a look at the image below you can see the reset button is on the back panel.

router reset factory settings
This is the reset page from your Linksys RV042 router.

While the Linksys RV042 router is on take a straightened paperclip and press down on the reset button for about 30 seconds. This begins 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.

Warning: Sometimes it can take quite awhile for the reset to complete. Do not unplug or turn off the router during the process. You run the risk of permanently damaging the router if you do.

Remember a reset like this one erases every single setting you have ever changed in the past. We strongly recommend trying other troubleshooting methods first.

Login to the Linksys RV042

Now that the reset is complete it is time to login to your Linksys RV042 router using the default username, IP address, and password. If you are unsure of what these are, check them out in our Linksys RV042 Login Guide.

Tip: If the defaults aren't working you might have not held down the reset button for long enough. Try resetting the router again, but this time hold down the button for a little longer.

Change Your Password

The next step is to change the password that you just used to access the router to a more secure one. Not sure what makes up a strong password? Our Choosing a Strong Password guide will help you get started on securing your router.

Tip: Avoid losing your password by writing it down on some paper and attaching it to the underside of the router.

Linksys RV042 Help

Be sure to check out our other Linksys RV042 info that you might be interested in.

This is the reset router guide for the Linksys RV042. We also have the following guides for the same router: