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How to Reset the Linksys WRT54GS

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Setup Router Staff
(Last Updated: ) | Reading Time: 7 minutes

On this page you will learn how to properly reset the Linksys WRT54GSv5 router back to factory defaults. This is not the same thing as a reboot. When you reboot a router you cycle the power to then unit. When you reset a router you take all the settings and return them to factory defaults.

Warning: Resetting this router is a big step. I strongly recommend trying other methods of troubleshooting before you decide to reset the device. Then it's a good idea to make a list of all the settings you have changed in the past. These settings include:

  • The router's main username and password.
  • The Internet SSID and the WiFi password.
  • Is this a DSL router? If so you may 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 forwarding or IP addresses?

Other Linksys WRT54GS Guides

This is the reset router guide for the Linksys WRT54GS v5. We also have the following guides for the same router:

Reset the Linksys WRT54GS

Below is an image of the back panel to the router. I have circled the reset button for you in red. Notice how small and recessed this button is. You need to find an object small enough to fit inside this hole.

router reset factory settings
This is the reset page from your Linksys WRT54GS router.

While the router is plugged in and turned on take a straightened paperclip or other object 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 long enough you may end up only rebooting the router instead of resetting it like you intended.

DO NOT: unplug or turn off the router during the reset process. If you do you could end up only rebooting the router instead of resetting it like you wanted.

Remember this reset erases all your personal data on the Linksys WRT54GSv5 router. I highly recommend exhausting your other troubleshooting methods before you decide to reset the router.

Login to the Linksys WRT54GS

Following the reset you will need to login to your Linksys WRT54GSv5 router by using the default login information. This means the default IP address, password, and username. Not sure what these are? Check them out in our Login Guide for the Linksys WRT54GSv5 router.

Tip: Can't login with the defaults? You might have accidentally rebooted the router instead of resetting it. Try resetting it again but hold down the reset button for a little longer this time.

Change Your Password

After you login to your router you will want to change the password from the default to something more secure. Try to make your new password 14-20 characters long and have it contain no personal information. Be sure to visit our Choosing a Strong Password guide if you need any additional help making a password.

Tip: Want to keep from losing your password? Try writing it down on a note of some kind and then attach it to the bottom of the router

Setup WiFi on the Linksys WRT54GSv5

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 WRT54GSv5 WiFi Instructions to get this important step done easily.

Linksys WRT54GS Help

Be sure to check out our other Linksys WRT54GS info that you might be interested in.

This is the reset router guide for the Linksys WRT54GS v5. We also have the following guides for the same router: