How to Factory Reset UniFi Devices (AP, Switch, Gateway)

Published 2026-02-16 by TechNet Team

Whether you're troubleshooting adoption issues, preparing equipment for a new deployment, or clearing a "Managed by Other" error, knowing how to properly factory reset UniFi devices is essential. This guide covers all methods for access points, switches, and gateways.

Method 1: Physical Reset Button

Every UniFi device has a small reset button, usually located near the Ethernet port. You'll need a paperclip, SIM ejector tool, or similar pointed object to press it.

Reset Procedure:

1. Locate the reset button (small pinhole near the Ethernet port)
2. With the device powered on, press and hold the button for 10+ seconds
3. Watch for the LED to flash or change color
4. Release the button and wait for the device to reboot

Important: A quick press (under 5 seconds) only restarts the device. You must hold for at least 10 seconds for a full factory reset.

Method 2: SSH Reset Commands

When the physical reset button isn't accessible or isn't working, SSH provides a reliable alternative. This is common in ceiling-mounted APs or remote deployments.

Step 1: Connect via SSH

ssh ubnt@192.168.1.20

Replace the IP address with your device's actual IP. Default credentials are:

• Username: ubnt
• Password: ubnt

If the device has been adopted, use the credentials configured in your UniFi Controller under Settings → System → Device Authentication.

Step 2: Run the Reset Command

For modern firmware (recommended):

set-default

For older firmware or if set-default doesn't work:

syswrapper.sh restore-default

To run both commands together (most reliable):

syswrapper.sh restore-default & set-default &

The device will clear its configuration and reboot automatically. You'll see a progress indicator showing configurations being cleared.

Troubleshooting SSH Reset Issues

Problem: Running only syswrapper.sh restore-default leaves the device pingable but SSH inaccessible.

Solution: If this happens, you'll need to physically power cycle the device. Use the combined command shown above to avoid this issue.

Method 3: UniFi Controller Reset

If the device is still accessible through your controller, this is the easiest method:

1. Open your UniFi Controller
2. Go to Devices
3. Select the device you want to reset
4. Click Settings (gear icon)
5. Scroll to Manage section
6. Click Forget and confirm

This removes the device from your controller and prepares it for re-adoption.

Method 4: Debug Terminal (Controller)

For devices showing in the controller but not responding to normal commands:

1. Select the device in your controller
2. Go to Settings → Manage → Open Terminal
3. Run: set-default

Device-Specific Notes

Access Points (UAP)

All methods work. For ceiling-mounted APs where the reset button is inaccessible, SSH is your best option.

Switches (USW)

The reset button is typically on the front panel. SSH commands work the same way. After reset, the switch will need to be re-adopted and VLANs reconfigured.

Security Gateway (USG)

SSH commands work identically. After reset, you'll need to re-adopt and reconfigure WAN settings, firewall rules, and VPN configurations.

Dream Machine / UDM

The UDM has a different reset process since it includes the controller. Hold the reset button for 10+ seconds. This resets both the controller and the network device.

After the Reset

Once reset, your device will:

• Return to default IP assignment (DHCP or fallback IP)
• Use default credentials (ubnt/ubnt)
• Be ready for adoption to any controller
• Show as "Pending Adoption" in your controller

Re-Adopting the Device

If your device doesn't appear for adoption, you may need to set the inform URL manually via SSH:

set-inform http://YOUR-CONTROLLER-IP:8080/inform

Replace YOUR-CONTROLLER-IP with your actual controller's IP address.

When to Use TFTP Recovery

If none of the above methods work and the device is unresponsive, TFTP recovery is a last resort before considering an RMA. This involves:

1. Downloading the firmware from Ubiquiti
2. Setting up a TFTP server
3. Holding the reset button during power-on to enter recovery mode
4. Pushing firmware via TFTP

This process varies by device model. Check Ubiquiti's documentation for your specific hardware.

Quick Reference

Need help with UniFi equipment or network infrastructure? Contact TechNet New England for professional network support.