To reset a Cisco phone, you must first identify whether you need a factory reset, which erases all settings, or a simple restart, which preserves them.
How to reset a Cisco phone: what you need to know
A factory reset returns the phone to its original out-of-box state, deleting all configuration changes, contacts, and network settings. A restart, by contrast, only reboots the phone and returns any unsaved changes to the last saved settings.
Common issues that require a Cisco phone reset
A factory reset can resolve persistent freezing, unresponsiveness, network connectivity problems, and performance slowdowns that a simple restart does not fix. Configuration errors, such as incorrect server settings or corrupted profiles, are also cleared by a reset. If the phone is being reassigned to a new user or moved to a different network, a factory reset ensures no conflicting settings remain.
Factory reset a Cisco phone from the menu
For Cisco 7800 and 8800 series desk phones that are responsive, the documented menu path is the safest method. Press the Applications button, then select Device administration, followed by Factory Reset. Confirm the action by pressing Select or OK when prompted. The phone will reboot and return to factory defaults. For Cisco's wireless 840/860 guide, if the phone can boot, use Settings > System > Erase all data (factory reset).
Factory reset a Cisco phone using the keypad
Cisco documents two keypad reset methods for supported Multiplatform (MPP) desk phones. The recommended method is to press #, then enter 123456789*0#. The alternative method is to press 0, then enter 369#. Both sequences initiate a factory reset without needing to navigate the menu.
Hardware factory reset for unresponsive Cisco phones
If the phone is frozen and does not respond to the menu or keypad, use the power-disconnect sequence. First, disconnect the power cable from the phone. Wait five seconds. While holding the # key, reconnect the power cable. Keep holding # until the mute indicator light turns off, then release it. Immediately enter 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 * 0 # with spaces between each digit. Wait for the mute light to indicate the reset has started; the phone will then reboot to factory settings. Cisco's SMB support page for 7800/8800 phones gives a hardware reset sequence that is similar but more specific than the general keypad methods. If the wireless phone cannot boot, use the Power button, Emergency button, Volume down, and Wipe data/factory reset in Recovery mode.
Restart a Cisco phone without losing settings
A restart is the correct procedure when the phone is slow, has not applied a recent setting change, or is behaving oddly but does not need a full wipe. Press Applications, then select Restart phone. This returns unsaved user and network setup changes to the previously saved settings and then restarts the phone. All saved contacts, call history, and configurations remain intact. This is the appropriate action for restarting and rebooting phones without data loss.
Reset network and security settings on a Cisco phone
Cisco distinguishes a settings reset from a full factory reset. On supported models, go to Applications > Reset settings or Admin Settings > Reset Settings. This restores the phone configuration or settings to factory default without necessarily erasing all user data. On the Cisco 8831 conference phone, the reset categories shown are All, Network, and Security, allowing you to target only the problematic area. This is useful if you need to fix a network issue but keep your directory numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a factory reset delete all my contacts and call history?
Yes, a factory reset erases all data stored on the phone, including saved contacts, call history, and customized settings. A restart does not delete any data.
Can I reset a Cisco phone remotely?
Yes, system administrators can reset a Cisco phone remotely using Cisco Unified Communications Manager or by entering http://<Phone IP>/admin/factory-reset in a supported browser and clicking Confirm Factory Reset.
What should I do if the factory reset fails or the phone does not respond?
Ensure the phone has a stable power supply and try the hardware reset sequence using the # key and power disconnect. If the phone still does not respond, contact your system administrator or Cisco support.
Does this guide apply to an iPhone or Android phone?
No. They do not apply to an iPhone, an Android handset, or a Cisco consumer mobile app. If you need to reboot my Android phone, consult the device's own settings or user manual.
Are all Cisco phone models reset the same way?
No.
