Hey guys! Ever found yourself locked out of your Mikrotik RB951Ui-2HnD router or just needing to start fresh? Don't worry; it happens to the best of us. This guide will walk you through the simple steps to reset your Mikrotik router, getting it back to its factory default settings. Whether you're troubleshooting network issues, selling the device, or just want a clean slate, resetting is often the best solution. Let's dive in!

Why Reset Your Mikrotik RB951Ui-2HnD?

Before we jump into how to reset, let's quickly touch on why you might need to do this. Understanding the reasons can help you decide if a reset is truly the right course of action.

• Forgotten Password: This is probably the most common reason. We've all been there – setting a complex password and then completely blanking on it. Resetting gives you a fresh start.
• Configuration Issues: Sometimes, you might tinker with settings and end up with a network configuration that's more of a headache than a help. A reset wipes the slate clean.
• Troubleshooting: If you're experiencing persistent network problems, a reset can eliminate any custom configurations as the cause, helping you isolate the issue.
• Selling or Repurposing: Before selling or giving away your router, it's crucial to reset it to protect your personal data and network settings. This ensures the new owner starts with a clean, secure device.
• Firmware Upgrade Problems: Occasionally, a firmware upgrade can go wrong, leaving your router in a semi-functional state. Resetting can sometimes resolve these issues.

Knowing these reasons, you can better assess if a reset is the correct step for your situation. Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty of how to actually perform the reset.

Methods to Reset Your Mikrotik RB951Ui-2HnD

There are several methods to reset your Mikrotik RB951Ui-2HnD router. We'll cover the most common and reliable ones. Always remember to back up your configuration if possible before performing a reset, as this process will erase all your settings.

1. The Hardware Reset Button Method

This is the most straightforward method and usually the first one you should try. It involves using the reset button located on the device itself.

Steps:

1. Locate the Reset Button: The reset button is usually a small, recessed button. You might need a paperclip or a similar pointed object to press it.
2. Power Down the Router: Disconnect the power cable from your Mikrotik RB951Ui-2HnD.
3. Press and Hold the Reset Button: While the router is powered off, press and hold the reset button.
4. Power On the Router: While still holding the reset button, reconnect the power cable.
5. Observe the ACT LED: Keep holding the reset button until the ACT LED starts flashing. This usually takes about 5-10 seconds.
6. Release the Reset Button: Once the ACT LED starts flashing, release the reset button. The router will now reset to its factory default settings.
7. Wait for Reboot: Allow the router to fully reboot. This might take a few minutes. Once it's done, you should be able to access it using the default IP address (usually 192.168.88.1) and the default username (admin) with no password.

This method is generally reliable, but if it doesn't work, don't worry! We have other options.

2. Resetting via Netinstall

Netinstall is a more advanced method used when the router is not booting properly or the hardware reset button isn't working. This method involves using a computer and the Netinstall software provided by Mikrotik.

Requirements:

• A computer running Windows.
• The Netinstall software (available on the Mikrotik website).
• An Ethernet cable.

Steps:

1. Download Netinstall: Download the Netinstall software from the Mikrotik website and install it on your Windows computer.
2. Configure Your Computer's IP Address: Set a static IP address on your computer's Ethernet adapter. A common choice is 192.168.88.2 with a subnet mask of 255.255.255.0. This is because the router defaults to 192.168.88.1.
3. Run Netinstall as Administrator: Right-click on the Netinstall executable and select "Run as administrator."
4. Configure Netinstall Settings: In the Netinstall window, specify the path to the RouterOS firmware package (.npk file). You can download the appropriate package from the Mikrotik website.
5. Connect the Router: Connect one end of the Ethernet cable to your computer and the other end to the Ethernet port 1 on the Mikrotik RB951Ui-2HnD.
6. Put the Router in Netinstall Mode:
   • Power off the router.
   • Press and hold the reset button.
   • Power on the router while still holding the reset button.
   • Continue holding the reset button until you see the router appear in the Netinstall window on your computer. This might take 15-20 seconds.
7. Install RouterOS: Once the router appears in Netinstall, select it and click the "Install" button. Netinstall will now upload and install the RouterOS firmware.
8. Wait for Completion: Wait for the installation process to complete. This might take several minutes. The Netinstall window will display a message when it's done.
9. Reboot the Router: Once the installation is complete, reboot the router. It should now be running the newly installed RouterOS firmware with factory default settings.

Netinstall is a powerful tool, but it can be a bit intimidating for beginners. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully.

3. Resetting via Serial Console (Advanced)

This method is for advanced users and requires a serial console cable. It allows you to access the router's command-line interface (CLI) directly.

Requirements:

• A serial console cable.
• A computer with a serial port or a USB-to-serial adapter.
• A terminal emulator program (e.g., PuTTY).

Steps:

1. Connect the Serial Cable: Connect the serial console cable to the serial port on your computer and the serial console port on the Mikrotik RB951Ui-2HnD.
2. Configure the Terminal Emulator: Open your terminal emulator program and configure it to connect to the serial port with the following settings:
   • Baud rate: 115200
   • Data bits: 8
   • Parity: None
   • Stop bits: 1
   • Flow control: None
3. Power On the Router: Power on the Mikrotik RB951Ui-2HnD.
4. Access the Router's CLI: You should see the router's boot sequence in the terminal emulator. Press any key to interrupt the boot process and access the RouterOS CLI.
5. Reset the Configuration: In the CLI, type the following command and press Enter:

   /system reset-configuration
   

6. Confirm the Reset: The router will ask you to confirm the reset. Type yes and press Enter.
7. Reboot the Router: The router will now reset to its factory default settings and reboot.

This method provides the most control over the reset process but requires technical expertise. If you're not comfortable with the CLI, it's best to stick to the hardware reset button or Netinstall methods.

Accessing Your Router After the Reset

After performing a reset, you'll need to access your Mikrotik RB951Ui-2HnD to reconfigure it. Here's how:

1. Connect to the Router: Connect your computer to one of the Ethernet ports on the router. Make sure your computer is set to obtain an IP address automatically (DHCP).
2. Open Winbox: Download and run the Winbox utility from the Mikrotik website. Winbox is a graphical user interface (GUI) for managing Mikrotik routers.
3. Find Your Router: Winbox will automatically scan your network for Mikrotik devices. Your RB951Ui-2HnD should appear in the list.
4. Connect to the Router: Select your router from the list and click the "Connect" button. Use the default username (admin) and leave the password field blank.
5. Configure Your Router: Once you're connected, you can start configuring your router's settings, such as the IP address, wireless settings, and firewall rules.

Alternatively, you can access the router via a web browser by navigating to its default IP address (192.168.88.1). However, Winbox is generally the preferred method for managing Mikrotik routers.

Tips and Troubleshooting

• Backup Your Configuration: Before performing a reset, always try to back up your current configuration. This will allow you to restore your settings if needed.
• Double-Check the Reset Button: Make sure you're pressing the correct button. Some Mikrotik devices have multiple buttons, so refer to the device's documentation.
• Use the Correct Firmware: When using Netinstall, make sure you're using the correct RouterOS firmware package for your device model.
• Disable Firewall: If you're having trouble connecting to the router after a reset, temporarily disable your computer's firewall.
• Seek Help: If you're still having trouble, don't hesitate to seek help from the Mikrotik community or a qualified network technician.

Conclusion

Resetting your Mikrotik RB951Ui-2HnD router is a straightforward process that can resolve many common issues. Whether you're dealing with a forgotten password, configuration problems, or just need a clean slate, these methods will help you get your router back to its factory default settings. Remember to back up your configuration if possible and follow the instructions carefully. With a little patience, you'll have your Mikrotik router up and running in no time! Good luck, and happy networking!