How To Reset Verizon Router
This guide explains how to approach how to reset verizon router, including the preparation, practical steps, common mistakes, and final checks that help you finish with confidence.
Before You Start
Step-by-Step Instructions
We'll cover two distinct methods. Start with the first one, the simple reboot, as it's less disruptive. If your problems continue, then proceed to the full factory reset.
Quick Reference
Common Problems When You Reset Verizon Router
Sometimes things don't go exactly as planned. Here are a few common hiccups and how to resolve them.
Internet Still Not Working After a Reboot
If a simple power cycle didn't fix the issue, the problem might not be with your router's temporary state. Before you jump to a factory reset, check two things. First, ensure all cables (especially the coaxial or ethernet cable from the wall) are securely fastened. Second, check the Verizon Service Outage page or the My Fios app to see if there's a known issue in your area. If there's no outage, then a factory reset is your next logical step.
Can't Connect to Wi-Fi After a Factory Reset
This is almost always due to a typo. The default passwords on router stickers can be long and confusing. Carefully re-read the password from the sticker, paying close attention to characters that look similar, like the number 0 and the letter O, or the number 1 and the letter l. Also, confirm you are trying to connect to the correct default network name (SSID), as your router may broadcast more than one (e.g., a 2.4 GHz and a 5 GHz network).
The Reset Button Doesn't Seem to Work
If you press the button and nothing happens, there are a few possibilities. Ensure the router is definitely powered on. Make sure you are using an object that is thin enough to fully depress the button inside the hole—you should feel a distinct "click". Finally, be certain you are holding it long enough. A short press will only reboot the router, not reset it. You must hold it for a minimum of 15 seconds.
Advanced Tips for Your Verizon Router
Once you're comfortable with the basics, these tips can help you manage your router more effectively.
Back Up Your Router Configuration
Before ever performing a factory reset, it's wise to back up your settings. After you've spent time setting up parental controls, port forwarding for gaming, or other custom rules, you don't want to lose them. Log into your router's admin panel (at 192.168.1.1) and look for a section called "System," "Admin," or "Advanced." In there, you should find an option to "Backup" or "Save Configuration." This will download a small file to your computer. After a future factory reset, you can return to this same menu, choose "Restore," and upload that file to instantly apply all your saved settings.
Use the My Fios App
For simple tasks, you don't always need to physically touch the router. Verizon's My Fios app allows you to perform many functions from your smartphone, including restarting your router remotely. This is a great first troubleshooting step if you're experiencing issues. The app can also help you manage your Wi-Fi password and see which devices are connected to your network.
Understand the Status Lights
The light on your router is its primary way of communicating with you. While specifics vary by model, the general rules are:
How To Reset Verizon Router FAQ
How often should I reset my Verizon router?
You should only need to reset your router when you're experiencing a problem. There's no benefit to resetting it on a fixed schedule. However, a simple reboot (power cycle) every month or two can be a good piece of preventative maintenance to keep it running smoothly. A full factory reset should only be used as a last resort for troubleshooting.
Will resetting my router delete my internet browsing history?
No. Your browsing history is stored on your individual devices (computer, phone, tablet), not on the router itself. Resetting the router will have no effect on this data.
Can a reset make my internet faster?
Yes, it can, but with a caveat. If your router's performance has degraded due to a memory leak or software glitch, a reboot will clear that and restore its original performance, which may feel like a speed increase. A factory reset can do the same. However, neither method will increase the maximum speed of the internet plan you subscribe to from Verizon.
What is the difference between my Verizon router and the ONT box?
Verizon Fios uses fibre optic technology. The Optical Network Terminal (ONT) is the device that converts the fibre optic light signal into a usable internet signal for your home. It's typically a small box mounted on a wall in your garage or utility room. The router is the separate device that takes that internet signal from the ONT and creates your home's Wi-Fi network. This guide is about resetting the router, not the ONT. You should rarely, if ever, need to reset the ONT.