Resetting the Xiaomi router to factory settings: 3 working ways

Resetting Xiaomi router to factory settings is a procedure that can be required in a variety of situations, from a forgotten password to fixing software failures. However, not everyone knows that an incorrect reset can lead to the loss of important settings or even failure of the device. This article will help you understand how to perform the reset safely and efficiently, regardless of your router model - whether it is Mi Router 4A, AX3600 or Redmi Router AC2100.

We're going to look at three basic methods: through the web interface, through the Reset button on the case, and through the Mi WiFi mobile app. Each method has its own nuances, so it's important to choose the right one for your situation. For example, if the router doesn't respond to the Wi-Fi connection, a physical reset button is the only solution. And if you just want to clean the device before selling, you'll need to software reset through the control panel.

We will focus on the preparation of the procedure: what settings should be saved, how to avoid data loss and what to do if the router does not turn on after reset. At the end of the article, you will find answers to frequent questions and a table of methods compatibility with popular Xiaomi models.

1. When you need to reset your Xiaomi router: 5 obvious reasons

Before you start resetting, make sure it's really necessary. Here are the typical situations where the procedure is justified:

• 🔑 Forgot the password from Wi-Fi or the administrator panel – reset will return the standard login / password (admin/admin or indicated on the sticker).
• 🐌 Router slows down or constantly restarts – factory settings will eliminate software conflicts.
• 📦 Preparation for sale – all personal data and settings are deleted.
• 🔄 Errors after firmware updates – reset helps to return performance.
• 🛡️ Suspicion of hacking – if unknown devices appear or change on the network DNS.

However, resetting is not always a panacea, for example, if the problem is due to a hardware malfunction (the LAN port is burned out, the antenna is not working), then going back to the factory settings will not work, in which cases repair or replacement of the device is required.

⚠️ Note: If your router is connected to Xiaomi Smart Home, after resetting all automation scenarios will have to be reconfigured. Export configurations in advance if possible.

2.Reset preparation: what to save and how to avoid problems

Reset erases all user settings, including Wi-Fi passwords, firewall rules, IP reservation (DHCP) and guest networks. To avoid setting everything up from scratch, follow these steps:

1. Export configuration (if the router supports the function): go to Settings → System → Backup and save the file to your computer.
2. Write down the current settings: Name and password of the main / guest Wi-Fi network; Static IP-Device addresses (if assigned manually); Port Forwarding rules; Settings DMZ or UPnP.

Disable important devices

If you have a Xiaomi Mi Router Pro or AX6000 with Mesh support, note that after resetting, all nodes will break the connection and have to be manually reconnected. For such models, it is recommended to use the “Reset Mesh network” function in the Settings → Mesh mode menu.

Make a backup of settings |

Write down Wi-Fi passwords and admin panels |

Disable critical devices |

Check for a backup internet connection (mobile 4G)|

Make sure the router is connected to power (not from the battery)

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3. Method 1: Reset via web interface (the most secure method)

This method is suitable if you have access to the router's admin panel. The instructions are relevant for all Xiaomi models, including the Mi Router. 3G/4/4A/4C and AX-series.

Steps:

1. Connect to the router via cable (LAN) or Wi-Fi.
2. Open your browser and type in 192.168.31.1 (or miwifi.com for some models).
3. Enter the login and password (by default — admin/admin, unless changed).
4. Go to Settings → Additional → System → Restore factory settings.
5. Press the "Reset" button and confirm the action.

The process will take 1-2 minutes. The router will restart, and you can log into the control panel with standard data. If after reset, the page 192.168.31.1 does not open, try clearing the browser cache or using another (for example, Mozilla Firefox instead of Chrome).

💡

If after reset the router gives an error "No Internet connection", check the settings WAN In the Settings section → Internet. The provider may require the indication VLAN ID or binding MAC-address.

Method 2: Hardware reset button (if the router does not respond)

If you forget the password from the admin panel or the router is getting stuck and does not respond to commands, the physical Reset button will help. It is located on the back of the device (sometimes hidden in the recess, and you will need a paper clip or toothpick to press).

Instructions:

1. Turn the router on (the power indicator should burn).
2. Find the Reset button (usually signed or marked with a hole).
3. Press and hold the button for 10-15 seconds until the lights start flashing or go out.
4. Release the button and wait for the reboot (1-3 minutes).

Some models (such as the Xiaomi Mi Router 4A Gigabit Edition) may need to hold the button for up to 20 seconds.If the router doesn't turn on after reset, check the power supply or try another network cable.

⚠️ Note: On Xiaomi routers with double reset (for example, AX3600) A short press on Reset (1-3 seconds) restarts the device, and a long one (10 seconds)+ Seconds) resets settings. Don't confuse these modes!

5. Method 3: Reset via Mi WiFi app (mobile devices)

If you have an official Mi WiFi app (available for Android and iOS), you can reset directly from your smartphone, which is convenient when you don't have access to your computer.

Step-by-step:

1. Connect your smartphone to the router’s Wi-Fi network.
2. Open the Mi WiFi app and sign in to your Xiaomi account.
3. Select your router from the list of devices.
4. Go to Settings → Additional → Restoration of factory settings.
5. Confirm the action and wait for the process to be completed.

If after reset the router gives an error "failed to connect to the Internet" despite the correct settings, try manually specifying the router. DNS-servers (e.g. 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 from Google) in Settings → Internet → DNS.

💡

After reset, always update your router firmware to the latest version, which will fix any bugs and improve stability, and you can do this in Settings → Software Update.

7. Alternative resetting methods for experienced users

If the standard methods don't work, you can try more advanced ones, and these methods require solid knowledge and are used in extreme cases.

Reset via Telnet/SSH (for supported models):

nvram erase


reboot

These commands will completely clear NVRAM (non-volatile memory) and restart the device. Telnet access is usually opened after debugging mode is enabled (on some firmware).

Flashing through TFTP (if the router is “bricked”):

1. Download the official firmware for your model from the Xiaomi website.
2. Connect the router to the computer by LAN-cable.
3. Launch it. TFTP-client, Tftpd64) and point the path to the firmware file.
4. Turn on the router in recovery mode (usually holding Reset when power is turned on).
5. Wait for the firmware load to be completed (indicators should flash).

⚠️ Note: Incorrect Firmware Through TFTP It can permanently disable the router. Use only official firmware files for your model!

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions