How To Factory Reset a FortiSwitch

Resetting Your Device

Generally speaking, resetting and device to its factory defaults is usually an option of last resort. However, if you're planning on selling the hardware, or you're just using it for lab/experimental purposes, a factory reset is a quick and easy way to start with a "clean slate". To factory reset a FortiSwitch, you have two options:

Physical Access

On the front of your FortiSwitch, usually near the "Power" and "Alarm" lights, you should see a small pinhole. Using a paperclip or the tip of a pen, gently push and hold the reset switch inside for approximately 30 seconds until the "Power" light flashes. At that point, you can release and the device should begin resetting itself. You'll know the reset is in progress when the port activity lights flash. The factory reset is usually fairly quick and should only take approx. 1-3 minutes from the start of the process to the full reboot at the end.

Command-Line Interface (CLI)

If you have serial console access (or access to the CLI in the web GUI), you can factory reset the FortiSwitch by running the following command:

execute factoryreset

You'll be prompted to confirm the operation, and the process should start quickly. Just as with the physical method, the reset should only take a few minutes and you'll likely see the port activity lights flash briefly.

Conclusion

That's it! Resetting your FortiSwitch is a quick and easy process as long as you have physical access or the appropriate access via CLI. For all of your Fortinet needs, contact Cosmistack! As a Fortinet partner and authorized reseller, we offer Fortinet products and services at greatly discounted prices. We look forward to working with you!