The quickest way to reset your Xfinity modem

A reset clears your modem's memory and forces it to reconnect to Xfinity's network. Most of the time, this fixes connection drops, slow speeds, and devices that won't connect. You have two options: a soft reset (power cycle), which takes two minutes and solves most problems, or a factory reset, which erases all settings and should only happen if the soft reset fails or a technician tells you to do it.

The soft reset is what you want first. Unplug the power cable from the back of your modem, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in. The lights on the front will flash while it restarts—this takes about three to five minutes. When the online light stops blinking and stays solid, your modem is ready. Try your connection. If that works, you are done.

Key Takeaways

  • A soft reset (unplugging and replugging the power cable) fixes most connection problems and takes only a few minutes.
  • Wait for the online light to stop blinking and stay solid before testing your connection after a reset.
  • A factory reset erases all settings and should only be done if a soft reset fails or a technician instructs you to do it.
  • If your modem still will not connect after a soft reset, check that the coaxial cable from the wall outlet is hand-tight and contact Xfinity support.

How to do a soft reset (power cycle)

This is the reset that fixes nine out of ten modem problems. You need nothing but your hands and 30 seconds of waiting.

Locate the power cable at the back of your modem. Pull it straight out of the socket. Do not flip a switch or unplug anything else—just the power cable itself. Wait a full 30 seconds. This gives the modem time to fully discharge. Then plug the power cable back in.

The modem will start up. You will see lights flash on the front panel. The online light (usually white or blue) will blink while the modem talks to Xfinity's network. This takes about three to five minutes. When the online light stops blinking and glows solid, the modem is ready. Test your internet by opening a web page or running a speed test.

How to do a factory reset

A factory reset erases every setting on your modem and returns it to the state it left the factory. Do this only if a soft reset did not work or if Xfinity support told you to do it. After a factory reset, your modem will need to be set up again, which usually happens automatically when it connects to Xfinity's network, but it can take 10 to 15 minutes.

Look for a small button on the back of your modem labeled Reset. It is usually recessed (sunk into the plastic) so you cannot press it by accident. Use a straightened paperclip, a ballpoint pen, or a similar thin object. Press and hold the reset button for 10 to 15 seconds while the modem is powered on. The lights will go dark, then flash rapidly. Release the button and let the modem restart. This takes about five to ten minutes. When the online light is solid again, the factory reset is complete.

What to check before you reset

Before you reset, make sure the problem is actually with your modem and not with the cable coming from the wall. Look at the coaxial cable (the thick cable with a metal connector) where it screws into the back of your modem. If it is loose, hand-tighten it by turning it clockwise. A loose cable is the most common reason for connection loss and is not a modem problem.

Also check that the power cable is fully plugged in and that the outlet works. Plug a lamp into the same outlet to confirm. If the outlet is dead, try a different one. Sometimes a tripped circuit breaker or a failed outlet causes what looks like a modem failure.

When to contact Xfinity support

If a soft reset does not fix your connection after 10 minutes, and the online light is not solid, contact Xfinity support. Have the model number of your modem ready—it is printed on a label on the back or bottom. Also note whether the online light is off, blinking, or a different color than usual. This information helps the technician diagnose the problem faster.

If you did a factory reset and the modem still will not connect after 15 minutes, or if you see error lights (usually red), do not do another reset. Call Xfinity instead. A technician may need to reprovision your modem on their end, which means updating your account to recognize the modem on the network again.

The difference between a soft reset and a factory reset

A soft reset is a power cycle. It clears the modem's temporary memory (called RAM) but keeps all your settings intact. Your Wi-Fi password, network name, and any custom settings stay the same. A soft reset takes two to five minutes and fixes most problems. It is safe to do as many times as you want.

A factory reset erases everything and returns the modem to its original state. Your Wi-Fi password and network name will revert to the defaults printed on the modem's label. A factory reset should only happen if a soft reset fails or if you are troubleshooting a serious problem under a technician's guidance. After a factory reset, Xfinity's network will usually push new settings to your modem automatically, but this can take 10 to 15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a reset erase my internet history or passwords?

No. A reset only affects the modem itself, not your devices or accounts. Your browser history, saved passwords, and files on your computer or phone are untouched. A factory reset will change your Wi-Fi network name and password back to the defaults, but that is all.

How long should I wait after unplugging before I plug it back in?

At least 30 seconds. This gives the modem time to fully power down and clear its memory. If you plug it back in after just a few seconds, the reset may not work. Set a timer on your phone if you are unsure.

What if the online light never turns solid after a reset?

If the online light stays off or keeps blinking after 10 minutes, the modem cannot reach Xfinity's network. Check that the coaxial cable from the wall is hand-tight. If it is, restart your modem one more time. If the light still does not turn solid after 15 minutes, contact Xfinity support—the issue is likely on their network or your account needs to be reprovision.

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.