How to Reset a Ubiquiti Access Point Using PuTTY CLI

Sometimes network issues can’t wait for a site visit. Whether your Ubiquiti AP is mounted on a high ceiling, hidden in a server room, or deployed at a remote branch, knowing how to reset a Ubiquiti access point via PuTTY CLI can save you hours of troubleshooting. Performing a factory reset via SSH is a fast, reliable method for clearing configurations, fixing firmware errors, or preparing devices for a new controller.

Table of Contents

Part 1: Why CLI Resets Are Useful for Ubiquiti Access Points

Resetting an AP through the CLI is more than just convenience:

• Remote Access: Reset APs without physical intervention.
• Troubleshooting Efficiency: Resolve firmware issues or misconfigurations that the GUI may fail to handle.
• Speed: For experienced administrators, CLI resets are faster than navigating the web interface.

Using the CLI is especially helpful when an AP shows "Heartbeat Missed" or "Isolated" in the UniFi Controller, preventing GUI-based reset.

Part 2: Prerequisites for Resetting a Ubiquiti AP via PuTTY

Before starting the reset process, ensure you have:

• PuTTY: Free SSH client for Windows.
• AP IP Address: Locate via DHCP lease table or network scanner.
• SSH Credentials: Default username/password is ubnt/ubnt, or your controller-provided credentials.
• Network Access: PC and AP must be on the same network or properly routed.

Having these ready ensures a smooth reset without unexpected interruptions.

Part 3: Step-by-Step Reset Guide via PuTTY CLI

Step 1: Connect via SSH

Open PuTTY, enter the AP IP, select SSH (Port 22), and click Open. Accept the security prompt if it appears.

Step 2: Log In to the AP

• Username: ubnt (or your custom username)
• Password: ubnt (characters are hidden while typing)

Step 3: Issue the Factory Reset Command

Type the following at the prompt to restore factory defaults:

set-default

For older firmware:

syswrapper.sh restore-default

This clears the current configuration and restores the AP to factory settings.

Pro Tip: After reset, the AP disconnects immediately from SSH. Allow a few minutes for it to reboot.

Part 4: LED Indicators and Reset Confirmation

The AP’s LED behavior confirms reset status:

• Flashing LEDs: Device is performing reset.
• Steady White Light: AP is now in Factory Default state, ready to be adopted by a new controller.

Monitoring LEDs provides a quick visual confirmation that the reset completed successfully.

Part 5: FAQ – Common Questions About CLI Resets

Q1.How do I reset an AP without physical access?

If SSH is enabled and network access exists, the set-default command allows remote factory reset. Use DHCP logs or network scanning if the IP is unknown.

Q2.What is the difference between CLI reset and physical reset button?

Both achieve the same result: clearing configurations and returning the AP to factory default. CLI reset is simply software-triggered.

Q3.How do I rejoin the UniFi Controller?

After the AP shows a steady white LED, it appears as "Pending Adoption" in the controller. Click Adopt to re-provision.

Q4.Can multiple APs be reset at once?

Yes, SSH scripts or automation tools can batch-reset multiple APs if reachable on the network.

Q5.Where can I get replacement APs or spare parts?

For reliable Ubiquiti APs or spare units, Router-Switch offers extensive inventory. You can also compare models using IT-Price.

Part 6: Conclusion

Mastering the PuTTY CLI reset empowers network admins to efficiently troubleshoot or reconfigure Ubiquiti APs without physical site visits. Monitoring LED status ensures the reset succeeded, and your device is ready for adoption. For teams seeking reliable replacements or expert guidance, Router-Switch provides inventory, technical support, and advice to maintain high-performing, stable networks.

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