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How to Reset the Linksys WRT54GP2

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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 WRT54GP2 router back to factory defaults. This is not the same thing as a reboot.

When you reboot a router you 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 data.

Warning: Resetting the Linksys WRT54GP2 router is a big step and should not be taken lightly. I strongly recommend trying other methods of troubleshooting before you continue with this reset. I also recommend making a list of all the possible settings you have changed in the past. Settings like:

  • The router's main username and password used to access the router's interface.
  • The WiFi settings such as the SSID and the Internet password.
  • Are you planning on resetting a DSL router? If so you need to re-enter the Internet Service Provider (ISP) username and password. Call your ISP for these details.
  • What other settings have you changed in the past? How about port forwards or IP addresses?

Other Linksys WRT54GP2 Guides

This is the reset router guide for the Linksys WRT54GP2. We also have the following guides for the same router:

Reset the Linksys WRT54GP2

Below is an image of the back panel of the Linksys WRT54GP2 router. Take a moment to look the back panel of your router at home. Is it in the same location as the one below?

router reset factory settings
This is the reset page from your Linksys WRT54GP2 router.

While the router is on take a straightened paperclip and press down on the reset button for about 10 seconds. This begins the reset process. If you don't hold the reset button down for long enough you end up only rebooting the router instead of resetting it like you wanted.

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

Remember the reset is erasing every single setting you have ever changed. I recommend trying other methods of troubleshooting before you continue.

Login to the Linksys WRT54GP2

Once the reset is complete you will be required to login to your Linksys WRT54GP2 router by using the default login information. This includes the default IP address, password, and username. If you don't know what it is you can find all of this information in our Login Guide for the Linksys WRT54GP2 router.

Tip: Can't login with the defaults? It is possible that the reset button wasn't held down for long enough during the router reset.

Change Your Password

After you login to your router you should change the password from the default as soon as possible. By doing this you will be making your router more 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 then visit our Choosing a Strong Password guide.

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

Setup WiFi on the Linksys WRT54GP2

Finally it is time to secure your wireless network. To do this you will need to configure the router's WiFi settings. Not sure how this is done? Follow our Linksys WRT54GP2 WiFi Instructions for an easy to understand walkthrough of this process.

Linksys WRT54GP2 Help

Be sure to check out our other Linksys WRT54GP2 info that you might be interested in.

This is the reset router guide for the Linksys WRT54GP2. We also have the following guides for the same router: