It's quite common to need to connect a new laptop or smartphone to an existing printer, but the wireless network password is lost or forgotten. Owners of HP LaserJet office equipment often find that the default PIN code on the sticker doesn't work because the device was previously configured for a specific router. Unlike routers, printers rarely have convenient screens for viewing stored security keys, creating the illusion that this information is inaccessible.
However, you can restore access to your wireless network settings. HP LaserJet It's quite possible if you know where to look for hidden reports or what key combinations to use to reset the parameters. Security Printing on a local network directly depends on the accuracy of the entered data, so this step cannot be ignored. In this article, we'll examine all available methods, from software utilities to physically manipulating the buttons on the device.
It should be noted right away that the methods may differ depending on whether your model has LaserJet A display with a menu or just two buttons. For devices without a display, procedures often rely on a sequence of presses that can be easily missed if you act too quickly. Let's look at the main solutions.
Search for information on the case and in the documentation
The first step should always be a visual inspection of the device, as manufacturers often place basic connection information directly on the device. This information can be found on the back or side of the printer. HP There is usually an information sticker containing the serial number, model, and initial setup information. Look for the box labeled Wi-Fi Direct or WPS Pin, which can serve as a key for direct connection without a router.
It's important to understand the difference between the web interface administrator password and the Wi-Fi network password. The sticker may contain a code for Wi-Fi Direct, which allows you to print directly from your smartphone, bypassing your home network. This code often consists of 8 characters and is factory default unless you've previously changed it through the device settings.
⚠️ Note: If the printer has previously connected to a different Wi-Fi network, the factory password on the sticker may not work to connect to the current router, as the device stores the new network settings in its memory.
If the sticker is worn off or missing, you should refer to the original box or instructions, if you still have them. In some cases, they may contain a separate sheet with unique registration information, although this applies to budget models. LaserJet This is rare. Most often, they only contain a generic template password that only works until it's first configured.
Printing a network configuration report
The most reliable way to find out current settings, including the IP address and connection status, is to print a special report directly from the device. This feature is built into the firmware of most models. HP LaserJet and doesn't require a computer. The report contains detailed information about the network adapter, including the security type and, in some cases, password hints if it was saved in a certain format.
For models without a screen, such as the series M15 or M28The procedure involves pressing buttons sequentially. You need to press the "Cancel" button (the cross) and the "Wireless" button simultaneously, holding them for about 3 seconds. The wireless indicator will begin flashing, after which the printer will print a page with technical information.
For owners of devices with a display and navigation buttons, such as the series LaserJet Pro MFP, you need to proceed through the menu. Go to "Settings," then select "Report" or "Information," and find the line "Configuration Report" or "Network Configuration." After confirmation, the printer will display a document where you need to look for the section Wireless.
What to do if the report does not print?
If the printer remains silent after attempting to print a report, check the paper tray and the toner level. It's also possible that the printer's network module is frozen. In this case, simply unplugging the device from the power outlet for 10-15 seconds will help.
In the received document, pay attention to the line SSID (network name) and connection status. If it says "Connected," it means the printer remembers your network password. The password itself is usually not written in plain text in the report for security reasons, but the report will give you an idea of which network the device is connected to.
Using the WPS button to connect
If you cannot find out your password using traditional methods, you can bypass the need to enter it using technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method allows the printer and router to exchange encryption keys automatically when buttons on both devices are pressed. This is especially useful for office equipment, where entering complex characters on the printer keyboard is difficult.
On the body of your router, find the button with the inscription WPS or the two arrows icon. On the printer HP LaserJet You need to press and hold the wireless button until the indicator light starts flashing. This usually takes about 5-7 seconds. Then, within 2 minutes, you need to press the WPS button on the router.
☑️ WPS connection algorithm
The devices will begin searching for each other and automatically configure security. At this point, the printer's lights will flash rapidly, indicating data exchange. Once the connection is established, the wireless network indicator will turn solid blue or green, indicating successful access rights.
⚠️ Note: The WPS method will not work if this feature is disabled in the router's security settings or if you are using a corporate network with complex authentication (Enterprise).
The advantage of this method is that you don't need to know the password itself. The printer receives it from the router in encrypted form and stores it in its non-volatile memory. You can then connect other devices to the same network, knowing that the printer is already a full member.
Reset network settings to factory defaults
When the previous methods fail, a radical but effective step remains: a complete reset of the printer's network settings. This will return the Wi-Fi module to its "fresh" state, deleting all saved network profiles and passwords. After the reset, you can set up the connection again using your router's current password.
For most models HP LaserJet Without a screen, there's a universal combination: press and hold the "Wireless" and "Cancel" buttons simultaneously for 15-20 seconds. All indicators should flash simultaneously, confirming the reset process has begun. The device will reboot the network module.
If you have a model with a color touchscreen, the process will be different. Go to the "Settings" menu (gear icon), select "Network" or "Wireless," then select "Restore settings" or "Reset network settings." You'll be asked to confirm this action, as this will disconnect your current connection.
| Printer model | Reset method | Success indicator | Retention time |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP LaserJet M15/M28 | Wi-Fi + Cancel button | All lights flashing | 5-7 seconds |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28 | Menu Settings -> Network | Confirmation sound | Tapping on the screen |
| HP LaserJet 107w/137fw | Wi-Fi + Cancel button | Indicator pulsation | 10 seconds |
| HP LaserJet Pro M404 | Menu -> Network -> Reset | Restart the screen | Tapping on the screen |
After the reset, the printer will enter setup mode. A new device, often with a prefix, will appear in the list of available networks on your computer or smartphone screen. hp-setup or model name. Once connected, you'll be able to launch the setup wizard and enter a new password.
Setup via the HP Smart app
Modern printers HP designed to work with the proprietary application HP Smart, which is available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. This software can find printers on the local network and transfer new Wi-Fi settings to them, even if the printer itself isn't yet connected to the internet, but is connected to the computer via USB.
The process begins by connecting the printer to your computer via a USB cable. In the HP Smart app, select "Add Printer" and follow the on-screen instructions. The app will automatically scan available Wi-Fi networks and prompt you to select yours. You'll only need to enter your router password once in the app interface.
HP Smart The printer will automatically transfer this data to the printer via a USB connection. After receiving the settings, the printer will disconnect the USB data channel and attempt to connect to the router over the air. This is the easiest way to set a new password without fiddling with the buttons on the printer.
It is important to note that the application may require an account to function. HPThis is a company requirement for accessing advanced print management features. If you don't have an account, you'll need to register one, which takes a couple of minutes.
Connect via USB to transfer password
If wireless methods seem too complicated or unstable, a classic wired connection remains the most reliable initial setup option. Using a USB Type-B cable (square connector), you create a direct connection between your computer and printer, eliminating router signal issues.
After connecting the cable and installing the drivers (if they didn't install automatically), open the printer's control panel via "Devices and Printers" in Windows or "Printers & Scanners" in macOS. The device's properties often include an "Options" or "Port Configuration" tab, where you can launch the wireless connection wizard.
The wizard will prompt you to select your network from the list and enter the password. The computer will transmit this information to the printer, which will save it in its memory. After a successful connection check, the system will prompt you to disconnect the USB cable, as further printing will be done over the network.
⚠️ Important: Make sure your computer and printer are on the same private network profile (Home or Private), otherwise Windows Firewall may block the transfer of settings.
This method is especially useful for older models. LaserJet, which may not support modern WPS 2.0 encryption standards or have problems automatically searching for networks in setup mode.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where can I find the Wi-Fi Direct PIN on my HP printer?
The Wi-Fi Direct PIN code is usually found on an information sticker on the printer. If the sticker is unreadable, print a network configuration report: on models without a display, press the "Cancel" and "Wireless" buttons simultaneously. In the report, look for the Wireless Direct section and the PIN Code field.
What should I do if my HP printer can't see my Wi-Fi network?
Make sure your router is broadcasting in the 2.4 GHz band, as many older models HP LaserJet They don't support 5 GHz. Also, check if the network name (SSID) is hidden in the router settings. Try moving the printer closer to the signal source.
Is it possible to find out the Wi-Fi password through the printer's web interface?
No, for security reasons, the printer's web interface (EWS) displays the current connection status and IP address, but hides the saved wireless network password. You can only change it, but you won't see the current one in plain text.
How do I reset network settings on an HP LaserJet M15?
For the M15 model, press and hold the Wireless and Cancel buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds until all indicators flash. This will reset the network settings to factory defaults.
Why is the wireless light orange?
An orange Wi-Fi indicator usually means the module is enabled, but the printer isn't connected to the network or has lost its connection. You should check the password entered correctly or reconfigure it via WPS or USB.