An ASUS factory reset wipes the router back to default settings. Wi-Fi names, passwords, port forwards, parental controls, and AiMesh links are removed, so it is best used for lockouts, stubborn problems, or before selling the router.
Does this affect you?
Use this for ASUS home routers running ASUSWRT firmware, including AiMesh-capable models.
Reset from the web interface
This is the cleanest method when you can still log in.
- Open 192.168.1.1 or router.asus.com in a browser.
- Log in with the ASUS router admin username and password.
- Before wiping it, go to Administration > Restore/Save/Upload Setting and click Save if you want a backup.
- In the same area, click Initialize all the settings and reboot, Restore, or the similarly named factory default option.
- Confirm the reset and wait 2 to 3 minutes for reboot.
- Reconnect to the default Wi-Fi network shown on the router label, or complete the setup wizard if the model starts open.
Reset with the physical button
Use this when you are locked out of the web interface.
- Find the recessed Reset button on the back of the router.
- With the router powered on, hold Reset for about 10 seconds until the power light starts flashing.
- Release the button.
- Wait several minutes for the router to finish rebooting. AiMesh models can take longer.
- Sign in again at 192.168.1.1 and run the setup wizard.
More control
Save important settings first
A backup file or even screenshots of Wi-Fi details and port forwards can save a lot of rebuilding after the reset.
AiMesh needs to be rebuilt
Resetting the main ASUS router disconnects AiMesh nodes. Pair each node again from the AiMesh menu after the main router is configured.
Wait before assuming failure
Give the router a full 5 minutes after a factory reset. Some models take longer than expected while clearing logs and mesh data.
Secure it immediately
Set a new router admin password and Wi-Fi password before using the network normally again.
Sources
- ASUS Support – How to reset the router to factory default settings (2025)
- ASUS Support – ASUSWRT web GUI administration guide (2025)
- ASUS Support – AiMesh node reset instructions (2025)