Getting an access point back to its factory default state can be useful for a fresh setup, or even for a device that was previously managed or configured.
With UniFi APs, there are a few ways to set it back to factory default.
If you already have access to the device from the software, then the first two steps will work. If not, then the last resort is to reset it on the physical device, using the reset button.
Reset from the UniFi Controller
It is possible to reset the AP from the UniFi Controller, so long as it is currently adopted.
First, log into your UniFi Controller and go to the 'Devices' section
Next, select the device you wish to remove
Once the device panel is open, click on 'Settings'
Scroll down and open up the 'Manage' drop down
Click 'Forget'
Finally, click on 'Confirm'
The UniFi AP will then begin the process of going back to factory settings, delete itself from the UniFi Controller and be ready to be set up again.
Reset via SSH
Log into the UniFi AP via SSH. Once logged in, issue the following command and then hit enter. Once done, the AP will reboot and then go back to factory default settings. Once completed, it'll be ready to set up again.
syswrapper.sh restore-default & set-default &
Reset on physical device
UniFi APs have a physical reset button, usually located next to the ethernet port. Once the button is located, hold it down for 10 seconds, until the LED lights flash. Once done, the AP will reboot and then go back to factory default settings. Once completed, it'll be ready to set up again.
The best sort of tool to use is an unwound paperclip or SIM ejection tool. In the below photo is an UAP AC Lite.
If none of these options work and your UniFi AP still doesn't work, try a TFTP recovery and failing that, the device may be faulty and might need sending back to Ubiquiti, using its RMA program. More info about RMA can be found here.
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