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How to Reset the Linksys WRT54G2

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

On this page I will describe how to reset the Linksys WRT54G2v1.5 router back to factory defaults.

There is a lot of confusion between a reset and a reboot. When you reboot a router you cycle the power to the unit. No settings are changed in a reboot. When you reset a router you take all the settings and return them to factory defaults. All your personal settings are lost.

Warning: This reset is a big step. Don't take it lightly. I recommend making a list of all the settings you have changed in the past. These settings will all need to be reconfigured. I have started the list for you:

  • The router's main username and password.
  • The WiFi settings such as SSID and Internet password.
  • Are you resetting a DSL router? If so you need to re-enter the Internet Service Provider (ISP) username and password. If you don't know what these are call your local Internet provider.
  • What other settings have you changed in the past. Make sure to write these down so you can reconfigure them later.

Other Linksys WRT54G2 Guides

This is the reset router guide for the Linksys WRT54G2 v1.5. We also have the following guides for the same router:

Reset the Linksys WRT54G2

In the image below I have circled the reset button for you. Notice that this reset button is more of a pinhole. This is done to avoid accidental resets.

router reset factory settings
This is the reset page from your Linksys WRT54G2 router.

While the router is plugged in and turned on take a straightened paperclip or other sharp object and press down on the reset button for about 10 seconds. This starts the reset process. If you don't hold the reset button down long enough you end up only rebooting the device instead of resetting it like you planned.

Warning: DO NOT unplug or turn off the router during the reset process. Doing so can result in permanent damage to the router.

Please remember this reset erases every single setting you have ever changed bin the past. I strongly exhausting your other methods of troubleshooting before you continue.

Login to the Linksys WRT54G2

After the reset you will need to login to your Linksys WRT54G2v1.5 router. To do this you will be required to use the default login information. Don't know what this is? You can find all the information you need to login to your router in our Linksys WRT54G2v1.5 Login Guide.

Tip: Can't login with the defaults? The router might have not been properly reset. Try resetting it again but this time hold down the reset button for a little longer.

Change Your Password

Once you successfully login to your Linksys WRT54G2v1.5 router you should consider changing the password as soon as possible to something secure. Try to make your new password 14-20 characters long and have it contain no personal information. If you need help making a password be sure to visit our Choosing a Strong Password.

Tip: To avoid losing your password try writing it down on a slip of paper and then attaching it to the bottom of the router.

Setup WiFi on the Linksys WRT54G2v1.5

Now it is time to secure your wireless network. To do this you will need to configure the router's WiFi settings. If you need help with this important process then check out our WiFi Instructions for the Linksys WRT54G2v1.5 router

Linksys WRT54G2 Help

Be sure to check out our other Linksys WRT54G2 info that you might be interested in.

This is the reset router guide for the Linksys WRT54G2 v1.5. We also have the following guides for the same router: