> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://documentation.hak5.org/key-croc/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://documentation.hak5.org/key-croc/basics/factory-reset.md).

# Factory Reset

In the extreme case that the Key Croc has become permanently inaccessible or inoperative, there is a quick method for recovery using a special boot pattern.

{% hint style="warning" %}
If protect arming mode is enabled, you must first disable this feature by removing the corresponding lines in config.txt and restarting the device before attempting a factory reset, otherwise the arming mode may become permanently locked.
{% endhint %}

Hold the arming mode button with a paperclip, SIM card tool or similar instrument.

1. While holding the arming mode button, plug the Key Croc into a USB port and unplug it immediately after the green LED turns white.
2. Repeat step #2 three times while holding the arming mode button.
3. Finally, plug the Key Croc into a USB port a 4th time when when the green LED turns to an alternating red/blue pattern, release the arming mode button.
4. This process will take 5-10 minutes. When the firmware recovery has completed, the Key Croc will reboot, indicated by the green LED.

Technical note: This process will replace the primary boot partition with a copy of firmware version 1.0 kept on a backup partition. If the backup partition has been damaged, this process will fail.