How to Factory Reset Nighthawk Router

If your Nighthawk router is acting weird, or in case you have forgotten your password, a factory reset can easily fix the problem, at least most of the time. If it sounds confusing to you, this means restarting the router to its primary factory settings.

The easiest way to reset your router to its factory configuration is by using the reset button. All Nighthawk routers have this to make it easy for users to delete all the settings. The reset button can be found on the back of your router; you will need to press it and hold it for about 10-15 seconds. This way, the router will restart automatically.

So this is pretty much all the work you need to do; however, if you cannot find the button or this method doesn’t work for you for some reason, there are other methods you can learn how to factory reset Nighthawk router. Follow the instructions below.

How to Factory Reset Nighthawk Router

Before we explain the factory reset process in detail, we must say a word about what this means so you can be aware of what you will be initiating.

If you perform a router factory reset, this means that all your personalized Wi-Fi data will be erased, and this includes your Wi-Fi password, as well as other personalized passwords, IP address, and DNS details, so before you do this, make sure that you have these details stored somewhere safe for future use.

Factory reset settings can resolve issues with a slow internet connection, inability to connect to the internet, wireless network issues, issues with the router, similar device troubleshoots, choppy VoIP, etc.

Factory reset the Nighthawk router using the reset button

The simplest way to reset your Nighthawk router is to use the reset button. Usually, in most Netgear models, it will be located between the Lan and Power settings. If it isn’t protruding outward, then it’s concealed inside a small hole, and you’ll need to use either a pin or a paperclip so you can push it inside. Here is how you can do it:

1. Plug in and connect your router to a power source and check whether the power light is on.
2. Now locate the button on the back of your router; if it’s located inside a small hole, take a sharp object to use.
3. Using the end of the needle or pin, push the button and hold for about 15 seconds.
4. After doing this, the router will restart automatically. 

Note: Once you perform a factory reset to your router, you might not be able to use it to connect to the Internet, so in this case, make sure you download any manuals and instructions on setting up the router beforehand.

Additionally, to set up the router once again, you will need to use a different internet connection since the network you are attempting to fix will be temporarily unavailable.

Factory reset Nighthawk router with a web router interface

In case your reset button doesn’t work, you can reset your router to factory configuration using Router Web Settings. Follow this guideline if you want to perform this type of reset:

1. Open the net browser you most commonly use and access the NETGEAR router login website.
2. On the login page, type in your router username and password details, then click on the login button.
3. Access the Settings tab from the Menu and find the “Backup Settings” option. 
4. Locate and choose the “Erase” button under the “Revert To Factory Default Settings”.
5. Confirm the action by clicking on the “Yes” option and waiting for the process to start. You’ll know you’ve completed all of the steps when the lights of your router start blinking.
6. When the router has finished booting up, check whether the problem persists. 

Factory reset the Nighthawk router using the Nighthawk app

Most of the NETGEAR router models can be controlled using the Nighthawk app. These steps will show you how you can reset the settings to the factory configuration:

1. Download the Nighthawk app on your smartphone and log in with your NETGEAR account.
2. Open the router settings from the Menu and access the reset option.
3. Click on it to confirm your selection.
4. Your router will automatically reboot; you will receive a notification once this has been completed.

Factory reset the Nighthawk router using the NETGEAR admin panel

You don’t necessarily need to download the app because you can also factory reset your router from your computer. If you know your admin credentials, follow the steps below:

1. Open the NETGEAR website and enter the login credentials. 
2. Once you are logged in, open the settings tab and find the “Factory Reset” option. 
3. Confirm the selection, and your router will reset shortly. 

However, if you notice that your router is not communicating with other devices, you must use the first option.

Read more: How to Factory Reset Orbi

Having Trouble With the Router After a Factory Reset? Here Is What You Can Do

It’s not uncommon for routers to have some issues after you do a factory reset, so in this case, check for some of these issues:

Check the hardware 

Check different components of the router, like the cables or modems, as they usually might be the reason why your router isn’t working properly. If it’s needed, you can replace them with new ones.

Check for router firmware update

If there is no internet connection after you factory reset your router, one of the problems might be due to outdated firmware. Open the Nighthawk website and access your admin page; here, you will be able to find information about whether you need to update your router manually.

Run the Windows troubleshoot

If you are using Windows, you can resolve the network problem using the Troubleshooting feature. This will help you identify the problem so your operating system will fix it automatically.

To do this, type in “Network Troubleshooter” in the Windows search bar and select “Identify and Repair Network Problems”. 

Also read: How Often Should You Reset Your Router

In Conclusion

These are the most efficient ways to factory reset Nighthawk routers and can help you resolve any issues you might face with your router connectivity. However, if your problem still exists after doing the Factory Reset, check the NETGEAR official website and search the Support section. Here you will need to find your router model and pick a topic regarding the issue you are facing. 

You will be able to read an extended explanation and get helpful advice on how to resolve common issues with all the routers. We hope this article helped you find out how to factory reset Nighthawk router and that you are now equipped with the knowledge to deal with any issue that may come your way.