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:

1. Open WinBox and log in:
   • Username: admin
   • Password: (your configured password)
2. Go to System > Reset Configuration
3. Choose your reset options:
   • Keep Users: keeps user accounts
   • No Default Configuration: resets but leaves the router blank
4. Click Reset Configuration
5. The router will reboot and return to default settings

Default IP after reset: 192.168.88.1
Username: admin
Password: (blank)

Method 2: Hard Reset Using the Reset Button

To perform a physical reset:

1. Power off the Mikrotik router
2. Press and hold the Reset button
3. Power on the device while still holding the button
4. Keep holding until the ACT light blinks or LED behavior indicates reset (about 5–15 seconds)
5. 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

1. Set your PC IP to 192.168.88.2
2. Access the router via WinBox or browser at 192.168.88.1
3. Log in using admin and set a new password
4. Run Quick Set or restore a backup if available