How to Fix a Hijacked Wireless Router on a Mac

Regain control of your Mac computer's wireless router with a factory reset.

Your computer's wireless router is vulnerable to being hijacked by unauthorized computers if the router does not have a secure WEP key, or the key is given to someone without your permission. As a result, the user is able to connect to your network and upload harmful software, access your computer's shared files or access illegal sites through the Internet connection. Although the AirPort Utility allows you to reset the wireless router, the hijacker typically changes the router's password to lock you out of it. A factory reset of the wireless router restores control of the device and enables you to create a new profile for the router to provide better protection.

Things You'll Need

• Pencil

Instructions

1. Remove the power cable from the AirPort base station's power port.

2. Push the sharp end of the pencil against the AirPort's reset button, located on the back of the device. Continue to hold down the button until the base station's light quickly blinks.

3. Release the button and plug the power cable back into the base station.

4. Click the Go menu at the top of the desktop screen and click "Applications." Double-click "Utilities" and "AirPort Utility."

5. Click "Configure" and create a new name for the network. Create a password that consists of letters and numbers and re-enter the password in the confirmation field.

6. Click "Complete" to finalize the network setup process.

References

• Apple: Resetting an AirPort Base Station or Time Capsule FAQ