How to Reset and Restore Ubiquiti Equipment

Resetting and restoring Ubiquiti devices can help resolve network issues, revert settings, or prepare equipment for reuse. Whether you’re dealing with UniFi access points, EdgeRouters, or other Ubiquiti hardware, this guide will walk you through safe reset and restoration processes.

Table of Contents

1. Why Reset Ubiquiti Equipment?
2. Types of Resets on Ubiquiti Devices
3. Steps to Perform a Factory Reset
4. Restoring Device Configurations
5. Tips for Smooth Reset and Restoration

1. Why Reset Ubiquiti Equipment?

You may need to reset Ubiquiti devices for the following reasons:

• Troubleshooting: Fix network connectivity or performance issues.
• Reconfiguration: Erase custom settings to apply new configurations.
• Ownership Transfer: Prepare the device for a new user.
• Device Recovery: Restore functionality after a firmware or configuration error.

2. Types of Resets on Ubiquiti Devices

• Soft Reset: Clears temporary settings without erasing saved configurations.
• Factory Reset: Erases all settings, reverting the device to its original state.
• Recovery Mode Reset: Used to restore firmware if the device becomes unresponsive.

3. Steps to Perform a Factory Reset

Method 1: Using the Reset Button

1. Locate the Reset Button:
   • Check your device for a small reset button, usually located on the back or bottom.
2. Perform the Reset:
   • Use a paperclip or pin to press and hold the button for 10–30 seconds until the device LED starts blinking.
   • Release the button and wait for the device to reboot.
3. Reconnect to Default Network:
   • After the reset, the device will revert to its default IP address and credentials.

Method 2: Reset via Web Interface

1. Access the Web Interface:
   • Open a browser and navigate to the device’s IP address.
2. Log In:
   • Use your admin credentials.
3. Reset Device:
   • Go to Settings or System and select the Factory Reset option.
   • Confirm to initiate the reset.

Method 3: Reset via SSH (Advanced Users)

1. Enable SSH Access: Ensure SSH is enabled on the device.
2. Log in via SSH: Use an SSH client (e.g., PuTTY) to connect to the device.
3. Execute Reset Command:
   Enter Reset command.
   • Confirm and wait for the device to restart.

4. Restoring Device Configurations

Method 1: Using Backups

1. Locate Your Backup File:
   • Use the configuration file saved before the reset.
2. Restore via Web Interface:
   • Access the device’s web interface, navigate to the Restore or Backup/Restore section, and upload the backup file.

Method 2: Reconfiguring Manually

1. Reconfigure Settings:
   • Log in to the device and re-enter network settings, SSIDs, and security configurations.
2. Save and Apply:
   • Confirm the settings and ensure proper functionality.

5. Tips for Smooth Reset and Restoration

• Back Up Configurations: Always create a backup before resetting your device.
• Use Correct Credentials: Post-reset, use default login credentials (found in the device manual).
• Test Network Post-Restoration: Ensure all connected devices function correctly after restoration.
• Update Firmware: After a reset, check for and apply the latest firmware updates.
• Document Settings: Keep a record of key settings to streamline reconfiguration.

By following these steps, you can efficiently reset and restore your Ubiquiti devices, ensuring they function as needed for your network.