Reset AirPort Extreme - so the reset succeeds
If the Apple AirPort Extreme is no longer working properly, you can perform a soft or hard reset. We'll show you how it works.
Reset AirPort Extreme: Soft Reset
If you have forgotten the password for your WLAN or for the AirPort Extreme, a soft reset is sufficient. If you would like to completely reset the device, you will learn how to perform a hard reset in the next paragraph.
- First, disconnect all LAN cables from the AirPort Extreme. This prevents a double connection via WLAN and LAN.
- Click on the Apple logo in the menu bar at the top and select the "System Preferences" option.
- Open the category "Network" and select the item "AirPort".
- Switch to the "TCP / IP" category and select the "DHCP" option in the "Configure IPv4" field.
- Press and hold the reset button on the router for one second. This is a small button next to the LAN ports.
- Now start the AirPort utility. You can find it in the path "Programs / Utilities".
- Double-click the AirPort Extreme in the window on the left. Under the categories "Base Station" and "Wireless" you can now change the password for the AirPort or your WiFi network.
- The AirPort Extreme is restarted using the "Refresh" button. Then reconnect the LAN cables to the device.
Reset AirPort Extreme: Hard Reset
- For a hard reset, press and hold the reset button for about five seconds. Older devices require you to press the button for about ten seconds.
- The reset button is located on the AirPort Express next to the LAN ports. With the newer devices you will receive a flashing signal as confirmation.
- After a few moments the reset is complete. The AirPort Extreme password is set to "public".
