The Reset Cisco command

Cisco Reset Command

Command Format: reset

Purpose: The reset command is used to erase the startup-configuration file and/or to completely reset the configuration of a Cisco device. The reset command returns the device to its default state.

Usage: The reset command can be used on a variety of Cisco devices, including switches, routers, and firewalls. It is typically used when a device is experiencing problems or when it is necessary to reset the configuration to a known state.

To use the reset command, follow these steps:

Connect to the device using a console cable or Telnet.

Enter the privileged EXEC mode.

Type the "reset" command and press enter.

You will be prompted to confirm the reset. Type "y" to confirm or "n" to cancel.

The device will reset and restart.

Types of Resets:

Hard Reset: The command simply reloads the operating system, erasing all of the IOS software configuration and any configuration files or settings stored in flash memory.

Factory Reset: This type of reset is similar to a hard reset, except that it completely erases the flash memory of the device as well as the operating system. This will completely reset the device to its factory default settings.

Cautions:

The reset command should be used with caution. It can result in the loss of all data and configuration on the device.

The factory default settings may not be suitable for all environments. It is important to carefully consider the implications of a reset before proceeding.

The reset command is particularly useful when troubleshooting problems with a device. It can also be used to restore a device to its factory default settings.
It is generally advisable to back up the configuration of a device before performing a reset. This will allow you to restore the configuration if necessary.

reset Usage Examples

1. Resetting a Device to Factory Default Settings:

Command: reset system
Usage: This command resets the device to its factory default settings. It erases all configuration information, including IP addresses, routing tables, and username/password.
Example: To reset a device named "router1" to its factory default settings:
```
> router1> reset system
```

2. Resetting a Specific Feature or Protocol:

Command: reset <feature>
Usage: This command resets a specific feature or protocol to its default settings. It doesn't affect other parts of the device configuration.
Example: To reset the IP routing table on a device named "router2":
```
> router2> reset ip routing
```

3. Resetting an Interface:

Command: reset interface <interface-name>
Usage: This command resets the specified interface to its default settings. It also shuts down and then brings the interface back up.
Example: To reset the FastEthernet 0/1 interface on a device named "switch1":
```
> switch1> reset interface FastEthernet 0/1
```

4. Resetting a Virtual Terminal (VTY) Line:

Command: reset terminal <vty-number>
Usage: This command resets the specified VTY line to its default settings. It terminates all active sessions on that line.
Example: To reset VTY line 0 on a device named "router3":
```
> router3> reset terminal 0
```

5. Resetting a Password:

Command: reset password <username>
Usage: This command resets the password for the specified username.
Example: To reset the password for the user "admin" on a device named "router4":
```
> router4> reset password admin
```

6. Resetting a Configuration File:

Command: reset configuration
Usage: This command resets the device's configuration file to its default state. It erases all custom configurations.
Example: To reset the configuration file on a device named "router5":
```
> router5> reset configuration
```