It's quite common to need to connect a new computer or smartphone to an existing wireless printer, but the network password is lost or forgotten. Users often confuse the router's Wi-Fi password with the security code generated by the HP printer for a direct connection or to protect the device's configuration. Understanding this difference is the first step to successfully resolving the issue.
In most modern models Hewlett-Packard technology is used Wi-Fi Direct, which allows devices to connect directly, bypassing the router. This connection often requires a unique code, which is hidden or randomly generated by default. In other cases, you may need to regain access to the printer's web interface to change the wireless network settings.
There are several proven methods for finding or restoring the necessary data. We'll cover methods that work for both new models with touchscreens and budget devices with minimal buttons. It's important to follow a consistent approach to avoid resetting your current network settings.
Finding factory data on the device body
The easiest and most reliable way to find the original (factory) connection data is to physically inspect the printer itself. Manufacturers often place unique identifiers and security codes on special labels. Pay attention to the rear panel, front panel, or the area under the cartridge compartment.
You will need to find a sticker with the inscription Wi-Fi Direct or Wireless DirectThe default password is usually located next to these markings. If the sticker is worn off or missing, try looking for a QR code, which may also contain encrypted network information.
Please note that on some models, such as the series LaserJet Pro or OfficeJetThe password may be hidden under a protective layer that must be carefully scraped off. This is done to ensure security during transportation and storage of the device in the store.
⚠️ Attention: Never use sharp objects like knives to scrape off the protective layer on the sticker located near the electronic contacts. This may damage the printed circuit board or the ribbon cable itself, which will render the device inoperable.
If you find a code consisting of 8-12 characters, try entering it when searching for a network on your computer. Standard passwords often have a format where some letters are uppercase and others lowercase, so be sure to match the case of the characters.
Printing a network configuration report
If the label is illegible or has been removed, the most informative source of data is the printer's internal report. HP allows you to print a configuration page, which contains complete information about the current network status, IP addresses, and security settings.
To start printing, you usually need to press and hold the button Wireless communication (antenna icon) for 3-5 seconds. On models with a menu screen, navigation looks different: go to the section Settings → Net → Print report.
In the printed document, find the section Wi-Fi DirectThe network name (SSID) and password will be displayed there. If the password field is empty or contains dashes, this means the direct connection feature is disabled and must be enabled through the device menu.
What to do if the report does not print?
If the printer doesn't respond to a report print command, check that there's paper in the tray and there are no cartridge errors. Also, make sure the device isn't in deep sleep mode—press the power button once to wake it up.
This method is especially useful when you need to know not only the password but also the printer's IP address to access its web interface (EWS). Knowing the IP allows you to manage the device through a browser, even if the drivers aren't installed.
Using WPS technology to connect
When it is not possible to find out the password visually or through a report, technology comes to the rescue WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This protocol allows devices to connect to the network without entering complex character codes, using either a PIN or a physical button.
The push-button method is the fastest. You need to press the WPS button on your router, then activate the same function on your HP printer within 2 minutes. This usually requires holding the wireless button on the control panel.
- 🔘 Press the WPS button on the router and wait for the indicator to blink.
- 🖨️ On the printer, press and hold the wireless button until the indicator light starts pulsating.
- 🔄 Wait until the printer indicator turns solid, indicating a successful connection.
- 💻 Now your computer or phone connected to the same Wi-Fi network will automatically see the printer.
It's important to understand that WPS doesn't reveal the password itself, but uses it for automatic authentication. This is ideal if your goal is simply to start printing, rather than learning a specific character combination.
⚠️ Attention: The WPS protocol is considered less secure than connecting using a complex password (WPA2/WPA3). If you are working on a corporate network with high security requirements, use the manual configuration method via the web interface.
Reset network settings to factory defaults
If the previous methods didn't work, the network settings may have been changed by the previous owner or corrupted by a software glitch. In this case, a complete reset of the HP printer's network settings is the solution.
This procedure will reset all wireless connection settings to their default state. After the reset, the device will create a new Wi-Fi Direct network with the default password, which can again be found on the sticker or in the configuration report.
☑️ Checklist before resetting the network
To perform a reset on most HP models, you need to hold down the buttons simultaneously. Wireless communication And Cancel (cross) for 3-5 seconds. On touchscreen devices, the path will be as follows: Settings → Net → Restore network settings.
After rebooting, the printer will search for the network again. You will need to reconnect to your router using the standard setup methods via the app or software.
Working with the web interface (EWS)
For advanced users, access to the Embedded Web Server (EWS) offers extensive management capabilities. Using a browser, you can not only view the password but also set a static IP address or update the firmware.
To access the interface, enter the printer's IP address into your browser's address bar. If you don't know the address, you can find it by printing a configuration report, as described above. The address often looks like this: 192.168.1.XX.
In the window that opens, go to the tab Net (Networking). Here, in the security or wireless 802.11 settings section, you can view the current status and, on some models, change the Wi-Fi Direct password.
| Parameter | Description | Where to find |
|---|---|---|
| SSID Direct | Network name for direct connection | Network tab -> Wi-Fi Direct |
| Security Key | Password to connect to the printer | Network tab -> Wi-Fi Direct |
| IP Address | The device's address on the local network | Home Page or Report |
| Firmware Ver. | Software version | Home or System tab |
The EWS interface may require an administrator password to make changes. By default, it is often empty or set to adminIf the password has been changed and lost, you will need to reset the printer itself.
Setup via the HP Smart mobile app
The most modern and convenient way to control peripherals is to use the official application HP SmartIt's available for iOS and Android and allows you to see all your connection parameters without having to print reports or search for stickers.
After adding the printer to the app (this usually happens automatically if the devices are on the same network), go to the settings for the specific device. In the section Wireless network settings The network name and sometimes the password are displayed (in the form of dots that can be hidden/showed).
The app also allows you to generate a QR code for guests to quickly connect. You can display this code on your smartphone screen, and guests can scan it with their camera to connect to the printer.
The app's functionality is constantly being updated, so the interface may differ on different OS versions. However, the operating logic remains the same: the control center is located in the device's main menu.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where can I find the Wi-Fi Direct PIN if it's not on the sticker?
If there's no PIN on the sticker, print a network configuration report from the printer menu. The code will be listed in the Wi-Fi Direct section. If this section is also empty, the code may be the standard "12345678" or the same as the device's serial number.
Is it possible to change the Wi-Fi Direct password on an HP printer?
Yes, you can do this through the web interface (EWS) or the HP Smart app. Go to network settings, select Wi-Fi Direct, and set a new password. Be sure to save your changes.
What should I do if my HP printer can't see my Wi-Fi network?
Make sure your printer and router support the same frequency standard (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz). Most older HP printers only operate in the 2.4 GHz band. Try temporarily separating the networks on your router or moving the printer closer.
Will a hard reset of the printer reset the Wi-Fi password?
A cold reset will return all settings, including network settings, to factory defaults. The Wi-Fi Direct password will be reset to the one on the sticker. However, your home Wi-Fi network settings will be erased, and the printer will need to be set up again.
How to find out the IP address of a printer without printing a report?
Press and hold the wireless button on the printer. The light may blink a specific number of times, corresponding to the address octet. Or, use the HP Smart app, which displays the IP address in the device properties.