How do you properly reset a modem?

[Johnny6]

I have a 6 year old Bellsouth Westell modem and a new Linksys N wife router.

How do you properly "reset" them if ever having issues?

 

[archer]

Hi Johnny 6, Welcome to Sevenforums.

Reset Button
Step 1
Locate the "Reset" button on the back of your modem. This button is typically recessed to prevent you from accidentally pressing it. If there is no Reset button, you must power cycle the modem.
Step 2
Push the button with sharp instrument, such as a pen or paper clip, and hold it for five to 10 seconds.
Step 3
Release the button and allow the modem to fully reboot. The modem is fully rebooted when all the front lights become solid.

Power Cycling
Step 1
Shut down your computer.
Step 2
Unplug your router, if you have one between the modem and computer.
Step 3
Unplug the modem from the wall or surge protector outlet and wait at least 10 seconds.
Step 4
Plug the modem back in and wait 30 seconds until all of the front lights are solid.
Step 5
Plug in your router, if applicable, and wait 30 seconds for the router to boot.
Step 6
Turn on your computer and allow it to fully boot up.

 

[marsmimar]

It's possible that resetting / power cycling / rebooting will return all optional settings to factory defaults.

 

[Johnny6]

Thank you for the reply. From what I remember, whenever I rebooted, it took me to the ISP providers website and had to login and do some things, this usually was a pain and created problems.

When and only when should you reboot the modem? And will it always send you to the ISP providers website, or you SHOULD have normal access again? Thanks