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How to Reset the Linksys WAG54G

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Setup Router Staff
(Last Updated: ) | Reading Time: 4 minutes

On this page I will describe how to properly reset the Linksys WAG54G router back to the original factory defaults. This is not the same thing as a reboot. When I use the term reboot I am only referring to a cycle in the power to the device. When I use the term reset I am referring to full factory restore of all settings. Every setting you have ever changed is erased and reverted back to how it was when the router left the factory.

Warning: This reset erases all your personal data. It is a good idea to make a list of all the settings you have changed in the past. This includes settings such as:

  • The router's main username and password.
  • The WiFi information such as SSID, encryption and password.
  • Is this a DSL router? If it is you may need to re-enter the Internet Service Provider (ISP) username and password. Call your local provider for this information.
  • What other settings have you changed? How about port forwards or changed IP addresses?

Other Linksys WAG54G Guides

This is the reset router guide for the Linksys WAG54G. We also have the following guides for the same router:

Reset the Linksys WAG54G

In the image below you can see the back panel of the Linksys WAG54G router. I have circled the reset button for you.

router reset factory settings
This is the reset page from your Linksys WAG54G router.

First of all, make sure the router is on.

Second, take a small sharp object such as a straightened paperclip and press down on the reset button for about 10 seconds. If you don't hold the reset button down for the entire amount of time you might end up only rebooting the device instead of resetting it like you intended.

Warning: DO NOT unplug or turn off the router during the reset process. If you do you could cause permanent damage to the device.

Remember this factory reset erases all your personal configurations. I strongly recommend trying other troubleshooting methods before you continue.

Login to the Linksys WAG54G

Now that you have reset your Linksys WAG54G router, you will need to login to it. This can be accomplished by using the default IP address, password, and username. This information can be found in our Login Guide for the Linksys WAG54G router.

Tip: If the defaults aren't working, try resetting the router again but hold down the reset button for a little longer this time.

Change Your Password

The next step after you login to the router is to change the password. Default passwords are easy to guess and are not very secure. Try to come up with a password that is unique. For helpful advice on making a good password, visit our Choosing a Strong Password guide.

Tip: To avoid losing your password, try writing it down on a note of some kind and attaching it to the underside of the router.

Setup WiFi on the Linksys WAG54G

Finally, it is time to secure your network by configuring the WiFi settings for your router. For an easy to follow guide on this important step, check out our WiFi Instructions for the Linksys WAG54G router.

Linksys WAG54G Help

Be sure to check out our other Linksys WAG54G info that you might be interested in.

This is the reset router guide for the Linksys WAG54G. We also have the following guides for the same router: