How to Reset Your Router if the WPS Button is Stuck: A Comprehensive Guide

Resetting your router plays a crucial role in maintaining network stability and improving security. If you're dealing with a stuck WPS button and need to reset your router, this guide will walk you through the process in detail. Understanding the difference between the WPS button and the reset button, along with the options for manually initiating a reset or through factory settings, will help you ensure your network functions as intended.

Understanding the WPS Button and the Reset Button

The WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) button is used to facilitate easy device connection to the router without needing to manually enter the SSID and WLAN key/password. In contrast, the reset button is used to restore the router to its factory settings, essentially erasing all configuration data and reverting to the default factory defaults. It's important to know the distinction between these two buttons to avoid confusion.

If you press the WPS button, it initiates a pairing process with compatible devices. If the WPS button is stuck, it can prevent new devices from connecting to the network without manual intervention. On the other hand, pressing the reset button will completely reset the router to its initial state, making it a powerful tool for troubleshooting and resetting network configurations.

Methods to Reset Your Router

Method 1: Pressing the Reset Button

Locating and pressing the reset button on the router is the most straightforward way to reset your router. This method is usually the easiest and fastest:

Find the physical reset button on the router. It is typically a small hole covered by a sticker.

Use a paperclip or another thin tool to press and hold the reset button for at least 10-20 seconds.

Wait for the router to reboot, which may take a few minutes.

Press the reset button again to confirm the reset process.

Method 2: Connecting via Ethernet

For a more controlled reset, you can connect your computer directly to the router via Ethernet cable:

Connect an Ethernet cable from your computer to the router’s LAN port.

Launch your web browser and navigate to the router’s default IP address (commonly 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1).

Log in with the default administrator credentials, which can usually be found in the router’s manual or on the router itself.

Look for an option labeled "System Tools," "Factory Reset," or "Reset to Factory Defaults."

Confirm the action by clicking the appropriate button or following the on-screen instructions.

Manual Reset via Configuration Page

If the router’s WPS function is not available, you can still initiate a reset through the configuration page:

Connect to your router's WiFi network or use an Ethernet cable to connect your computer to the router.

Open a web browser and go to the router's IP address.

Log in with the default username and password.

Locate and select the "System Tools" or "Factory Reset" option in the router's administrative interface.

Follow the on-screen instructions to reset the router to its factory settings.

Security Considerations

While pressing the reset button can help in certain situations, it's important to note that this method can be risky as it erases all of your custom settings, including security configurations. Ideally, you should ensure that WPS is disabled since it has been known to have security flaws. Disabling WPS further enhances the security of your network by preventing unauthorized access through the WPS protocol.

Disabling WPS

Sign in to your router’s configuration page using an Ethernet connection.

Navigate to the "Security" or "Wireless Security" settings section.

Search for and select the WPS settings.

Change the WPS-enabled option to "Disabled."

Save the changes and apply the configuration.

By implementing proper security measures and disabling WPS where possible, you can enhance the overall security of your home or business network.

Conclusion

Resetting your router is a common task that can be performed either through pressing the reset button or through the configuration interface. Understanding the differences between the WPS button and the reset button is critical to avoid accidental reboots or resets. By following the detailed steps provided in this guide, you can troubleshoot and reset your router effectively, ensuring a stable and secure network.