How do I factory reset my node?

When to Factory Reset

Factory reset clears all configuration and returns the node to out-of-box defaults. Do this when:

• You've changed so many settings that the node misbehaves and you can't identify the cause
• You're repurposing a node from one network to another and want a clean start
• Selling or giving away a node (removes your channel keys and personal info). A factory reset clears your channel keys and configuration, but verify there is no message history or personal data on an inserted SD card, and note that other nodes on the mesh may retain a record of your node ID until it ages out. Remove any SD card before transferring a device.
• As a last resort after troubleshooting fails

Via the App

In the Meshtastic Android/iOS app with the node connected: Settings → Device → Reset Node DB (resets node database only) or Factory Reset (clears all configuration). This is the recommended method for non-technical users.

Via CLI (advanced/optional)

The command below is advanced/optional - it requires the separate Meshtastic command-line tool installed on a computer and a USB connection to the node. If you are not comfortable with the command line, use the in-app Factory Reset described above instead.

meshtastic --factory-reset

This clears all radio configuration, channels, and user settings. The node reboots and appears with default settings. Note: this does NOT clear the firmware - you will still be on the same firmware version after a factory reset.

Via Hardware (Button)

Most boards support a hardware factory reset by holding the user button during power-on, or pressing it a specific number of times. Check the Meshtastic documentation for your specific board model. The hardware method is useful when you can't connect to the device via Bluetooth or USB.

What Factory Reset Does NOT Do

• Does not change the firmware version
• Does not change the hardware node ID (derived from the hardware MAC address, not erasable). Note, however, that a factory reset does regenerate the node's encryption keys, which can break direct messaging with nodes that cached your old key until they re-exchange keys with you.
• Does not affect other nodes on the network - their node databases will still have a record of your node until it ages out

After a Factory Reset

You'll need to reconfigure everything: region, channel, role, position (if fixed), and any module settings. If you exported your config before resetting, restore it with:

meshtastic --import-config my-node-config.json

If you're joining a community network, obtain the channel QR code or URL from the network coordinator and scan/tap it to configure your channels automatically.