Instead, you set up each device by scanning a QR code on the router's bottom with the Google Wifi smartphone app. There are no default credentials to remember, as Google doesn't use any. Find the Network & General setting, then Wifi Points, and then tap Factory Reset. To de-associate a Google Wifi device or an OnHub device from your Google account and wipe the cloud data clean - which you might want to do when you're selling or giving away a unit - you'll need to use the Google Wifi mobile app. The reset procedure is the same as for the Google Wifi. For the TP-Link, you'll need to twist the outer housing and lift it off the reset button will be next to the power port. The Asus' reset button is next to the USB port on the back of the device. Google also puts it own branding on the older OnHub routers made by Asus and TP-Link, respectively. Look for a small white button there's often a gray circle with a white triangle printed on the case next to the button.ĭoing this will wipe the device clean, but it will stay linked to your Google account, and so will the old usage data and other information tied to the device.
You can find out how to test if your router might be infected here.) How to Factory-Reset an Apple RouterĪpple AirPort Extreme, AirPort Express Base Stations and AirPort Time Capsules all have reset buttons, though they're not easy to see at first.
(But if your router is already infected, a firmware update won't clean it out only a factory reset will. We have comprehensive firmware-update instructions for most major router brands here. Malware attacks routers whose firmware hasn't been updated, so this is an easy way to protect yourself. Three: Update your router's firmware, either before or after the factory reset.
If you've misplaced your router instructions and don't know the default credentials, look them up there. (If you can find these options in your router's administrative interface, turn off remote management and/or remote access.)Ī comprehensive list of default router passwords is at, yep. There are lists online of default credentials for routers, and someone who managed to connect to your router over the internet could use those credentials to seize control of the router.
Two: Change the default administrative username and password straight away after you reset the router.ĭon't ever leave those untouched. We've got more-detailed instructions about using the administrative interfaces here. Many of the routers' administrative interfaces let you back up a configuration file, which will contain the passwords and network names, to a PC or Mac before you perform the factory reset. Use the same network names and passwords after you set it back up, and you won't need to change the Wi-Fi settings on your computers, smartphones, tablets, game consoles, smart TVs and so on. One: Write down the access passwords and network names for all networks created by your router BEFORE your factory-reset it. But you need to remember a few things, no matter which brand or model of router you have.