How To Reset Verizon Cable Box

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Resetting your Verizon Fios cable box can be a simple fix for a variety of common issues, from frozen screens and missing channels to slow performance. Before you spend time on the phone with customer support, trying a reset yourself can often resolve the problem quickly and get you back to enjoying your entertainment.

Ready to troubleshoot your Verizon Fios cable box and get things running smoothly again? Let's dive in!


Step 1: Identify the Type of Reset You Need

Before we begin, let's figure out what kind of reset you're aiming for. There are generally two main types of resets for your Verizon Fios cable box:

  • A Soft Reset (Power Cycle): This is the most common and easiest method. It's like restarting your computer when it's acting up. It clears temporary glitches and refreshes the connection. This is what you should always try first.

  • A Hard Reset (Factory Reset): This is a more drastic measure. It wipes all your personalized settings, recorded shows, and preferences, returning the box to its original factory state. This is typically reserved for persistent problems that a soft reset can't fix, or if you're troubleshooting with Verizon support and they recommend it. Be aware that you will lose all your DVR recordings with a factory reset.

For most issues, a soft reset will do the trick. We'll start there.

Step 2: Performing a Soft Reset (Power Cycle)

This is your go-to solution for most minor issues. It's quick, easy, and preserves all your settings and recordings.

2.1: Locate Your Equipment

First, identify your Verizon Fios cable box. It's the device connected to your TV, usually displaying the time or channel number. You'll also need to locate the power outlet it's plugged into.

2.2: Disconnect the Power

  • Option A (Recommended): Unplug from the Wall Outlet. This is the most effective method. Gently unplug the power cord of your cable box directly from the electrical wall outlet.

  • Option B: Unplug from the Back of the Box. If the wall outlet is inaccessible, you can unplug the power cord from the back of the cable box itself. Make sure you're unplugging the correct cord!

2.3: Wait It Out (The Magic 15-30 Seconds)

This step is crucial. Do not rush this part. Once the cable box is unplugged, wait for at least 15 to 30 seconds. This allows the box to fully discharge and clear its temporary memory. Think of it as a brief mental break for your device.

2.4: Reconnect the Power

  • Plug the power cord back into the electrical wall outlet (or the back of the cable box).

  • You should see lights illuminate on the front of the box, indicating it's starting up.

2.5: Allow the Box to Initialize

Your cable box will now go through a startup sequence. This can take a few minutes. You might see various messages on your TV screen, such as "booting up," "acquiring signal," or "connecting." Be patient and let it complete this process. Do not interrupt it.

2.6: Check for Resolution

Once the box has fully initialized and you see a channel displaying on your TV, check if the original issue has been resolved.

  • Is your picture back?

  • Are all your channels available?

  • Is the screen no longer frozen?

If your issue is resolved, congratulations! You're all set. If not, and you're still experiencing problems, you might need to consider a hard reset or contact Verizon support.

Step 3: Performing a Hard Reset (Factory Reset)

WARNING: This will erase all your DVR recordings, personalized settings, and preferences. Only proceed with this if a soft reset did not resolve your issue or if instructed by Verizon support.

There are typically two main ways to perform a factory reset: through the settings menu or using a combination of buttons on the box itself. The method may vary slightly depending on your specific cable box model.

3.1: Resetting via the On-Screen Menu (Recommended)

This is generally the safest and most guided way to perform a factory reset.

  • Turn on your TV and cable box.

  • Access the Main Menu: On your Verizon Fios remote, press the "Menu" button.

  • Navigate to Settings: Use the arrow keys on your remote to scroll through the menu options until you find "Settings" or "Customer Support". Select it.

  • Locate Reset Options: Within the settings menu, look for options like "System," "Technical Support," "Troubleshooting," or "Reset."

  • Select Factory Reset/System Reset: Once you find the reset options, carefully select "Factory Reset," "System Reset," or something similar. Read the on-screen prompts carefully to ensure you are selecting the correct option.

  • Confirm Your Choice: The system will usually ask you to confirm that you want to proceed with the factory reset. This is your last chance to back out if you're not ready to lose your data. Select "Yes" or "Confirm."

  • Allow the Reset to Complete: The cable box will now begin the factory reset process. This can take several minutes. The box may restart multiple times. Do not unplug or interfere with the box during this process.

  • Re-setup Your Box: Once the factory reset is complete, your cable box will behave like it's brand new. You will likely need to go through an initial setup process, including selecting your language, performing a channel scan, and potentially re-entering your Verizon Fios account information if prompted. You will also need to re-program any personalized settings.

3.2: Resetting via Buttons on the Cable Box (Less Common, Model Dependent)

Some older or specific models might have a reset button or a button combination for a hard reset. This method is less common for general users and is usually a last resort or guided by support.

  • Locate the Reset Button: Some cable boxes have a small, recessed "Reset" button on the front or back. You might need a paperclip or a pen to press it.

  • Press and Hold: If you find such a button, with the box powered on, press and hold it down for 10-15 seconds.

  • Observe the Box: The box's lights should change, or it might restart. This indicates the reset process has begun.

  • Allow Initialization: Similar to the menu reset, let the box complete its full startup and re-initialization process. You will then likely need to go through the initial setup as if it were a new box.


Step 4: Troubleshooting Beyond the Reset

If after performing both a soft and a hard reset, you're still experiencing issues with your Verizon Fios cable box, it's time to consider other factors or contact Verizon support.

  • Check all Cable Connections: Ensure that all coaxial cables (the screw-on type) and HDMI cables are securely connected to both your cable box and your TV. Sometimes a loose connection is all it takes.

  • Examine for Damaged Cables: Visually inspect your cables for any kinks, cuts, or fraying. Damaged cables can lead to signal loss.

  • Test a Different HDMI Port/Cable: If you're having picture issues, try plugging your cable box into a different HDMI port on your TV. You could also try a different HDMI cable altogether.

  • Check Other Fios Services: Are your Fios internet and phone services working correctly? If all Fios services are down, the issue might be with your Fios Optical Network Terminal (ONT) or a broader service outage in your area.

  • Contact Verizon Fios Technical Support: If you've exhausted all these troubleshooting steps, it's definitely time to reach out to Verizon. They can run diagnostics on your equipment remotely and dispatch a technician if necessary. Be prepared to describe the issue in detail and the steps you've already taken.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to power cycle a Verizon Fios cable box?

Unplug the power cord from the back of the cable box or from the wall outlet, wait 15-30 seconds, then plug it back in.

How to reset a Verizon Fios cable box without losing recordings?

Perform a soft reset (power cycle) by unplugging and re-plugging the power cord. A factory reset will erase recordings.

How to factory reset a Verizon Fios cable box through the menu?

Go to your cable box's "Menu," then navigate to "Settings" or "Customer Support," and look for "System Reset" or "Factory Reset" options. Confirm your choice to proceed.

How to tell if my Verizon Fios cable box is resetting?

During a soft reset, the box will go dark and then lights will flicker as it powers back on. During a hard reset, you'll see on-screen messages indicating a reset and multiple reboots.

How to fix a frozen Verizon Fios cable box?

Start by performing a soft reset (power cycle). If that doesn't work, ensure all cables are secure.

How to improve channel loading times on Verizon Fios after a reset?

Ensure your cable box has proper ventilation. If slow loading persists, a factory reset might be needed, or contact Verizon for further diagnostics.

How to check for loose connections on my Verizon Fios cable box?

Gently push in all coaxial cables (the ones with the screw connectors) and HDMI cables at both the cable box and your TV to ensure they are snug.

How to find the reset button on my Verizon Fios cable box?

Some models have a small, recessed "Reset" button on the front or back, often requiring a paperclip to press. However, menu-based resets are more common now.

How to contact Verizon Fios technical support?

You can usually find their contact number on their official website or on your monthly bill. Be prepared with your account information and a description of your issue.

How to re-scan channels after a Verizon Fios factory reset?

After a factory reset, the box typically guides you through an initial setup process that includes channel scanning. If not, look for a "Channel Scan" or "Auto Program" option in the TV or cable box settings menu.

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