The fastest way to reset your Xfinity modem
A reset clears your modem's memory and forces it to reconnect to Xfinity's network. Most connection problems — slow speeds, dropped internet, devices that won't connect — stop after a reset. You have two options: a soft reset (power cycle), which takes 30 seconds and solves most problems, or a factory reset, which erases all settings and should only be your second choice.
The soft reset is what you want first. Unplug the power cable from the back of the modem, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in. The lights will flash for two to three minutes while the modem restarts. When the online light stops blinking and stays solid, your internet is back. This fixes temporary glitches without losing anything.
Key Takeaways
- A soft reset (unplugging for 30 seconds) fixes most internet problems and takes just a few minutes.
- Wait for the online light to stop blinking and stay solid before testing your connection.
- A factory reset erases all settings and should only be used if a soft reset does not work.
- If problems return after a reset, contact Xfinity to check for outages or account issues on their end.
When to do a soft reset instead of a factory reset
Do a soft reset first, every time. It takes 30 seconds and fixes the majority of connection issues without erasing anything. Your modem remembers your settings, your network name, and your password. You do not have to reconfigure anything afterward.
A factory reset should only happen if a soft reset does not work and Xfinity support tells you to do one, or if you are returning the modem and want to clear your personal settings. A factory reset erases your network name, password, and any custom settings. After a factory reset, you will need to set up the modem from scratch, which means reconfiguring your Wi-Fi network and reconnecting all your devices.
How to do a soft reset step by step
Step 1: Locate the power cable. Find where the power cable plugs into the back of the modem. It is usually a thick black cord on the right or left side of the modem's rear panel.
Step 2: Unplug and wait. Pull the power cable straight out. Do not use the reset button on the modem — that triggers a factory reset. Wait a full 30 seconds. This gives the modem time to fully power down and clear its memory.
Step 3: Plug back in and wait for lights. Plug the power cable back into the modem. The lights on the front will flash in sequence. The online light (usually labeled "Online" or shown as a globe icon) will blink for two to three minutes. When it stops blinking and stays solid green or white, the reset is complete and your internet is ready to use.
How to do a factory reset if needed
A factory reset erases all settings and returns the modem to its original state. Only do this if Xfinity support instructs you to, or if you are returning the modem and want to remove your personal information.
Locate the reset button on the back of the modem — it is usually a small, recessed button labeled "Reset" or "Factory Reset". Use a paperclip or the tip of a pen to press and hold the button for 10 to 15 seconds while the modem is powered on. The lights will flash rapidly, and the modem will restart. This process takes about five minutes. When the online light stops blinking and stays solid, the factory reset is complete.
After a factory reset, you will need to set up your Wi-Fi network again. Open your device's Wi-Fi settings and look for a network name that matches your modem's model number (usually printed on a sticker on the modem). Connect to that network, then follow the on-screen prompts to create a new network name and password.
What to check before you reset
Before you reset, make sure the problem is actually with your modem and not with Xfinity's network. Check the Xfinity website or the Xfinity My Account app to see if there is an outage in your area. If there is an outage, a reset will not restore your internet — you will have to wait for Xfinity to fix it.
Also check that all cables are plugged in firmly. The coaxial cable (the thick cable that comes from the wall) should be hand-tight at both ends. A loose cable often causes the same symptoms as a modem problem. If the cable is loose, tighten it and wait two minutes to see if your connection improves before you reset.
What to do if a reset does not fix the problem
If your internet still does not work after a soft reset, try the soft reset one more time — sometimes it takes two attempts. If it still does not work, contact Xfinity support. They can check whether there is an outage, whether your account has a service issue, or whether your modem itself is failing.
When you call, have your account number ready (it is on your bill or in the My Account app). Tell them you have already done a soft reset and describe what the lights on the modem are doing — whether they are all off, all on, or blinking in a particular pattern. This information helps them diagnose the problem faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a soft reset delete my Wi-Fi password?
No. A soft reset only restarts the modem. Your network name, password, and all settings stay the same. Your devices will reconnect automatically once the modem comes back online.
How long does a soft reset take?
About three to five minutes total. Unplug for 30 seconds, plug back in, and wait two to three minutes for the online light to stop blinking. You can start using your internet as soon as that light stays solid.
What if the online light never stops blinking?
If the online light blinks for more than five minutes, unplug the modem again, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in. If it still blinks after a second attempt, contact Xfinity — the modem may not be connecting to the network, which usually means an account issue or a failing modem.
Can I reset my modem while I am using the internet?
You can, but you will lose your connection when ready. Any downloads, uploads, or video calls will stop. It is better to reset when you are not actively using the internet, or to let others in your home know that the internet will be down for a few minutes.
Do I need to reset my modem regularly?
No. A healthy modem does not need regular resets. Only reset when you have a connection problem. If you need to reset more than once a month, contact Xfinity — it may indicate a deeper issue with your modem or service.