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)
• 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).

Via CLI

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 hardware keys, not erasable)
• 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.