Are you experiencing slow speeds, device connectivity problems, or frequent disconnections with your Xfinity router? Sometimes, all your network needs is a quick refresh. Other times, you might need to start from scratch, like when you’re selling your equipment or can’t solve a persistent issue.
This guide offers a clear, systematic process on how to restart or factory reset your Xfinity router. We’ll cut through the confusion and show you exactly what to do.
Restart vs. Factory Reset: What’s the Difference?
Before you touch your router, it’s crucial to understand the two main options you have. They have very different outcomes.
- Restart (or Reboot): This is like turning your computer off and on again. It clears the device’s temporary memory and resolves minor glitches without erasing any of your personalized settings. Your Wi-Fi network name, password, and other configurations will remain intact.
- Factory Reset: This is a more drastic measure. It completely erases all your custom settings and returns the router to its original, out-of-the-box condition. Your Wi-Fi network name, password, security settings, and any port forwarding rules will be deleted.
| Action | Effect | When to Use | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restart | Reboots the router, clearing temporary glitches. Does not change settings. | Slow speeds, minor connection issues, regular maintenance. | ~5 minutes |
| Factory Reset | Erases all custom settings and restores the router to its original factory defaults. | Persistent connection problems, forgotten admin password, preparing to sell the device. | ~10-15 minutes |
How to Restart Your Xfinity Router (Reboot)
A restart is your first line of defense for most common internet problems. It’s quick, easy, and non-destructive. We recommend restarting your router at least once a month to keep it running smoothly.
Method 1: Manual Power Cycle (The Easiest Way)
- Unplug the power cord from the back of your Xfinity Gateway.
- Wait for at least one full minute. This allows the internal components to fully power down.
- Plug the power cord back in.
- Wait for the router to boot back up. This can take up to 10 minutes. The lights on the front will blink and change, and you’ll know it’s ready when the ‘Online’ light is solid (usually white or green).
Method 2: Using the Xfinity App
You can also restart your router remotely using the Xfinity app on your smartphone.
- Sign in to the Xfinity app using your Xfinity ID and password.
- Navigate to the Internet tile.
- Select your modem or gateway from the list of devices.
- Tap the option that says Restart this device and confirm your choice. The router will begin its reboot cycle.
Understanding Your Xfinity Router’s Status Lights
The lights on your router can tell you what’s going on. While they vary slightly by model (like the XB7 or XB8), here are some common indicators:
- Solid White or Green: Everything is good! Your router is online and working correctly.
- Blinking White or Green: The router is trying to establish a connection. This is normal during startup.
- Blinking Orange or Red: There’s a connection problem. The router is having trouble connecting to the internet. A restart is a good first step. If it persists, a factory reset or a call to Xfinity support may be needed.
- No Light: The router has no power. Check that it’s plugged in and the outlet is working.
How to Factory Reset Your Xfinity Router
A factory reset should only be used when a restart doesn’t solve your problem, or if you want to completely wipe the device. Remember, this will erase all your settings.
Before You Factory Reset: A Quick Checklist
- Write down your settings: Note your current Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password. You will need to set them up again.
- Find the default info: Look for a sticker on your router. It will have the default network name and password you’ll need to connect after the reset.
- Backup custom rules: If you have any special configurations like port forwarding or static IP reservations, make a note of them.
Method 1: Using the Physical Reset Button
This is the most common way to perform a factory reset. This process works for most modern gateways, including popular models like the Xfinity XB7 and XB8.
- Locate the reset button on your router. It’s usually a small, recessed hole on the back or bottom of the device, often labeled ‘Reset’.
- Use an unfolded paperclip or a similar pointed object to press and hold the reset button for at least 30 seconds.
- Keep holding the button until the lights on the front of the router blink or turn off simultaneously. This indicates the reset process has begun.
- Release the button and allow the router to reboot. This can take 10-15 minutes.
Method 2: Using the Router’s Admin Page
- Connect a computer to your router using an Ethernet cable.
- Open a web browser and type the router’s IP address into the address bar. For Xfinity Gateways, this is almost always 10.0.0.1.
- Log in to the admin tool. The username is typically ‘admin’. The password is the unique one printed on the sticker on your gateway. If no unique password is listed, you can try the default ‘password’.
- Navigate to the administrative section. This is often called Troubleshooting, Administration, or Utilities.
- Look for an option called Reset/Restore Gateway or Factory Reset. Click it and confirm your choice. The router will then begin the reset process.
What to Do After a Factory Reset
Once your router has finished its factory reset, your old network is gone. You’ll need to set it up again.
- Use the default network name (SSID) and password from the sticker on your router to connect a device.
- Once connected, we highly recommend you log back into the admin tool (at 10.0.0.1) and change the Wi-Fi name and password to something secure and memorable.
- Reconnect all of your devices (laptops, phones, smart TVs, etc.) to your new Wi-Fi network using the new credentials.
- Re-apply any custom settings like port forwarding rules that you noted down earlier.
- Run a speed test to confirm your connection is working as expected.
You can also follow Step-by-step Guide to Xfinity Modem Activation and Self-Installation. Or, in case you want information on How to Cancel Xfinity Internet, TV & Phone.
Conclusion
Restarting or resetting your Xfinity router can fix many common connectivity problems. A simple restart is always the best first step for minor issues, while a factory reset provides a clean slate for tackling more stubborn problems.
By following the steps in this guide, you can confidently manage your home network and get back online quickly. If problems persist after trying these steps, it may be time to contact Xfinity support for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does an Xfinity router reset take?
A simple restart (reboot) usually takes about 5-10 minutes. A full factory reset takes a bit longer, around 10-15 minutes, as the device has to erase its settings before rebooting.
Why is my internet still slow after restarting the router?
If a restart doesn’t help, the issue might not be with your router. It could be an area outage, a problem with the line to your home, or an issue with your specific internet plan. If a factory reset also doesn’t solve the speed issue, it’s best to contact Xfinity support.
How do I change my Xfinity Wi-Fi password?
You can change it using the Xfinity app or by logging into the router’s admin tool. In a web browser, go to 10.0.0.1, log in with ‘admin’ and the password on your router’s sticker, and navigate to the Wi-Fi settings to edit your network name (SSID) and password.
How do I restart my Xfinity router remotely?
The easiest way is to use the Xfinity app. Log in, select the ‘Internet’ tile, choose your gateway, and tap ‘Restart this device’. You can do this from anywhere you have an internet connection.
- How to Configure a Secure Site-to-Site VPN on Cisco Firepower Complete Guide - December 3, 2025
- Jobs for Network Engineers: Roles, Skills & Pay - December 3, 2025
- How to Change WiFi Password on Any Router : The Last Guide You Need - December 1, 2025
