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How to Reset the Linksys WRT54GL

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

Here I will be showing you how to reset the Linksys WRT54GL router back to factory defaults. There is a lot of confusion between a reset and a reboot. In this guide when I use the term reset I am referring to a full factory restore of all the settings. In this guide when I use the term reboot I am referring to a cycle in the power to the unit. No settings are changed in a reboot.

Warning: Resetting the Linksys WRT54GL router is a big step and should not be taken lightly. I recommend making a list of all the settings you have changed in the past. I have started this list for you:

  • The router's main username and password used to access the router interface settings.
  • The WiFi settings such as the SSID and Internet password are also erased.
  • Are you resetting a DSL router? Don't forget to re-enter the Internet Service Provider (ISP) username and password. If you don't know these values you need to call your local provider.
  • What other settings have you changed in the past? How about port forwards or IP addresses?

Other Linksys WRT54GL Guides

This is the reset router guide for the Linksys WRT54GL. We also have the following guides for the same router:

Reset the Linksys WRT54GL

In the image below you can see the back panel of the Linksys WRT54GL router. I have circled the location of the reset button for you. This tiny button is typically recessed to avoid accidental resets.

router reset factory settings
This is the reset page from your Linksys WRT54GL router.

First of all, make sure the router is plugged in and turned on. Then take a straightened paperclip or ball point pen and press down on the tiny reset button for approximately 5 seconds. This will begin the reset process. Don't worry if it takes a few minutes to complete. If you don't hold the reset button down for the full 5 seconds you might reboot the router instead of resetting it like you wanted.

Warning: Do not unplug or turn off the router during the reset process. This could permanently damage your router.

Remember a reset like the one described here erases all the settings you have changed in the past. I highly recommend exhausting all other possible solutions before you decide to reset the Linksys WRT54GL router.

Login to the Linksys WRT54GL

Now that the Linksys WRT54GL router has been reset you will need to login to it. To do this you will need to use the default IP address, password, and username. If you don't know what these are you can find them in our Login Guide for the Linksys WRT54GL router.

Tip: Can't login with the defaults? Try resetting the router again. This time make sure that you hold down the reset button for just a little longer to make sure that it properly resets.

Change Your Password

After you successfully login to the Linksys WRT54GL router you should consider changing the password. The default password is easy to guess so it should be changed as soon as possible. Need help making a password? Get started by visiting our Choosing a Strong Password guide.

Tip: Worried about losing your password? Try writing it down on a piece of paper and attach it to the underside of the router.

Setup WiFi on the Linksys WRT54GL

Finally it is time to start configuring the router's settings back to how you like them. Don't forget to also secure your wireless network by configuring the WiFi settings. To get this important step done easily be sure to follow our WiFi Instructions for the Linksys WRT54GL router.

Linksys WRT54GL Help

Be sure to check out our other Linksys WRT54GL info that you might be interested in.

This is the reset router guide for the Linksys WRT54GL. We also have the following guides for the same router: