To reset a dongle or mobile hotspot, you typically use a factory-reset button on the device or a reset option in its web interface or settings menu. The exact steps vary by model and carrier, but the process generally clears custom settings while leaving your SIM card data intact.
How to reset a dongle for T-Mobile hotspots
You can reset your T-Mobile hotspot using either the WebUI Manager or the hardware pinhole method. If you need to reset T-Mobile 5G home internet, the WebUI path is the same as for other T-Mobile hotspots.
- Open the hotspot WebUI Manager.
- Go to Settings > Device Settings > Device > Backup and Restore > Restore Factory Defaults.
- Select Reset, then Confirm.
For the hardware method, turn the device on, insert a paperclip into the Factory Reset Pinhole, press and hold it for exactly 6 seconds, then release. After the reset, you must reconnect using the default Wi‑Fi login credentials.
Reset an ATT A50 hotspot
The ATT A50 hotspot offers three reset methods: through the web admin page, the on-device menu, or a hardware button.
Web admin page
- Open a browser and go to http://mobile.hotspot.
- Navigate to Settings > Device > Backup and Restore > Factory Reset.
- Confirm the reset.
On-device menu
- On the device, go to Settings > Factory Reset.
- Select OK.
Hardware button
- Remove the battery cover, keeping the battery installed.
- Power the device on.
- Press the reset button for exactly 3 seconds and release.
After the device restarts, all connected devices will need to reconnect using the default Wi‑Fi credentials.
Reset a Straight Talk hotspot
Straight Talk hotspots use a hardware reset button located below the battery compartment, requiring back cover removal. The process is the same for the Blu STBLB100DG and the KonnectONE STKOK779HSDC models.
- Remove the back cover.
- Locate the RESET button below the battery compartment.
- Using a paper clip or pointed object, press and hold the button for exactly 5 seconds.
The device will reset after the button is released.
What a factory reset does and doesn't do
A factory reset restores the original factory settings on your hotspot. It does not delete data stored on the SIM card, so your mobile plan and account information remain intact. However, the reset clears all custom settings, including Wi‑Fi network name and password, so connected devices will need to reconnect using the default credentials printed on the device or in its documentation.
Troubleshoot phone hotspots on iPhone and Android
If you are using your phone as a hotspot and experiencing issues, resetting the network settings can often help without wiping your entire device.
iPhone
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset [device] > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
This is a network settings reset for iPhone or iPad hotspot troubleshooting. It clears saved Wi‑Fi networks and passwords, cellular settings, and VPN/APN configurations, but does not delete personal data like photos or apps.
Android
- Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Reset Wi‑Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
- Select Reset settings.
This resets saved Wi‑Fi passwords and Bluetooth connections. For hotspot or APN troubleshooting, you can also go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs & mobile network > [select SIM card] > Access Point Names > Menu > Reset to default. Motorola documents this path for hotspot/APN troubleshooting. Do not use the full factory reset option (Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset)), which Motorola documents as a separate full-device reset option to avoid for simple hotspot issues, as it will delete all data on your phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will resetting my dongle delete my data?
No. A factory reset on a dongle or hotspot clears custom settings like Wi‑Fi name and password, but it does not delete data stored on the SIM card, such as your phone number or account information.
What if my dongle doesn't have a reset button?
Some dongles do not have a physical reset button. In that case, check the device's web interface or settings menu for a factory reset option. You can also try unplugging the device, waiting a few minutes, and plugging it back in to see if it resets automatically.
How do I find the default Wi‑Fi password after a reset?
The default Wi‑Fi network name (SSID) and password are usually printed on a sticker on the device itself, inside the battery compartment, or in the user manual. After a factory reset, the hotspot will revert to these credentials.
Can I reset my dongle without losing my internet plan?
Yes. A factory reset only affects the device settings, not your SIM card or mobile plan. Your account and data allowance remain unchanged.
Why would I need to reset my phone's network settings instead of the hotspot?
If you are using your phone as a hotspot and having connectivity issues, resetting the phone's network settings can fix problems with APN configurations, Wi‑Fi connections, or Bluetooth pairings without affecting your personal data or requiring a full device wipe.
