TP-Link Archer AX73

Factory Reset Guide for TP-Link Archer AX73

Soft Reset (Admin Panel)

If you still have admin access:

1. Log in to the dashboard at 192.168.0.1.

1. Navigate to Advanced > System > Backup & Restore.

1. Click Restore under Factory Default Settings.

1. Confirm the restore. The router will reboot and clear all custom configurations.

Hard Reset (Physical Button)

Use this method if you have forgotten your admin password:

1. Verify Power Status: Ensure the Archer AX73 is plugged into a power source and the Power LED is solid green.

1. Locate the RESET Button: Find the small pinhole labeled RESET on the rear panel, adjacent to the WPS button and USB port.

1. Perform the Reset: Insert a paperclip, SIM ejector, or straightened pin into the pinhole. Press and hold the internal button firmly for exactly 10 seconds.

1. Watch LED Indicators: Hold the button until all front-panel LEDs flash simultaneously and then turn off — this signals that the NVRAM wipe has begun. Release the button.

1. Wait for Reboot: The router takes approximately 2 minutes to complete its reboot and self-test cycle. Do not unplug power during this period.

1. Reconnect: Once the Power and Wi-Fi LEDs are solid green, connect via Ethernet or the default SSID (printed on the bottom label) and navigate to 192.168.0.1 to run the setup wizard.

Pre-Reset Checklist

Before performing a factory reset, note or backup:

ISP credentials (PPPoE username and password from your ISP)

Custom SSID names and Wi-Fi passwords

Port forwarding rules

DHCP static reservations (MAC-to-IP bindings)

Any VPN server configuration details

Post-Reset Security Steps

1. Create a strong unique admin password during initial setup.

1. Change both 2.4GHz and 5GHz SSIDs and passwords.

1. Update firmware to the latest version immediately.

1. Disable WPS and enable SPI Firewall.

1. Configure DNS to a secure resolver (e.g., Cloudflare 1.1.1.1 or Google 8.8.8.8).