Summary:
Resetting your Mikrotik router to factory settings erases all configurations and returns the device to its original state. This is useful for troubleshooting, reconfiguring, or starting fresh.
Method 1: Soft Reset via WinBox or Webfig
To reset using WinBox:
- Open WinBox and log in:
- Username:Â
admin - Password:Â (your configuredÂ
password)
- Username:Â
- Go to System > Reset Configuration
- Choose your reset options:
- Keep Users:Â keeps user accounts
- No Default Configuration:Â resets but leaves the router blank
- Click Reset Configuration
- The router will reboot and return to default settings
Default IP after reset:Â 192.168.88.1
Username:Â admin
Password:Â (blank)
Method 2: Hard Reset Using the Reset Button
To perform a physical reset:
- Power off the Mikrotik router
- Press and hold the Reset button
- Power on the device while still holding the button
- Keep holding until the ACT light blinks or LED behavior indicates reset (about 5–15 seconds)
- Release the button and wait for reboot
IMPORTANT: This erases all settings. After reset, use WinBox or Web browser to access the router at 192.168.88.1.
Method 3: Reset Using Netinstall (Advanced Recovery)
If the router is unresponsive or won’t boot correctly, you can use Mikrotik’s Netinstall tool.
- Requires a PC with Ethernet port, Netinstall software, and router in bootloader mode
- Best for recovery from misconfiguration or RouterOS corruption
- You can reinstall RouterOS and reset the configuration at the same time
TIP: Use this only if the soft and hard reset options don’t work.
Post-Reset Steps
- Set your PC IP toÂ
192.168.88.2 - Access the router via WinBox or browser atÂ
192.168.88.1 - Log in usingÂ
admin and set a newÂpassword - Run Quick Set or restore a backup if available