Owners of office and home equipment often face a situation where they need to connect a new device to an existing network, but access to it is protected, and password lost or forgotten. In the case of printers of the series HP DeskJet This is especially relevant since many models lack a full-fledged display for data entry. Users are looking for a way to retrieve or view the saved access key directly from the printer's memory.
However, the technical implementation of security in modern gadgets is designed differently. The printer doesn't store the router password in clear text, which could be easily read and copied. It uses hashed data or temporary tokens for authorization. Therefore, there is no standard "view password" menu option in the printing interface.
However, there are several effective ways to resolve the connection issue. You can print a special configuration report, use the WPS for automatic synchronization or perform a complete reset of network settings. Below, we'll cover each of these methods in detail so you can restore your connection with minimal effort.
Why can't I just view the saved password?
Many users mistakenly believe that the printer works like a browser, storing passwords in plain text. In fact, after a successful connection to Wi-Fi networksThe device stores an encrypted security key. This is done specifically to protect your data: even if an attacker gains physical access to the printer's memory, they won't be able to easily extract the key from your home network.
In models HP DeskJet Without a touchscreen, the menu is often limited to basic functions. There's no "Show Password" option, as this violates security protocols. WPA2/WPA3Instead of searching for a way to extract data, it's more effective to use alternative authorization methods offered by the manufacturer.
⚠️ Caution: Attempts to hack the printer firmware or use third-party software to extract passwords may result in the device being locked or the warranty being voided. Use only HP's proprietary methods.
It's also worth keeping in mind that control interfaces may vary depending on the model year. If you're using a very old device, some modern methods may not work. Always check feature compatibility on the official support website.
Method of printing wireless network report
The most reliable way to get information about the current connection status is to print configuration reportAlthough the password itself won't be displayed there (for security reasons), you will see IP address The printer and the network name it's connected to. This is critical for further configuration via the web interface.
To start printing on most models HP DeskJet You need to perform a certain sequence of actions with the buttons. Usually, you need to press and hold the button Wireless communication (antenna icon) together with the "Cancel" button (cross) for 3-5 seconds. The device will begin printing.
In the received document, find the section WirelessThe connection status will be displayed there. If the status is "Connected," then the printer already knows the password and is working successfully. If you need to connect a computer, knowing the IP address, you can enter it in the browser to access EWS (Embedded Web Server).
☑️ Checking the print status
Sometimes it's impossible to print a report if the paper tray is out of paper or the cartridges are empty. Make sure the printer is ready to print. Also, please note that on some budget models, the report may be abbreviated and lack detailed technical information.
Using WPS technology to connect
If you don't know the Wi-Fi password but have physical access to the router, the ideal solution is a technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)It allows devices to exchange encryption keys automatically at the press of a button. You don't need to enter any characters manually.
The process is as follows: find the button on the router body WPS and press it. Then, within two minutes, press and hold the wireless button on the printer. HP DeskJet until the indicator starts blinking. The device will automatically "negotiate" with the router.
This method is especially convenient when the router is installed complex password, consisting of numerous characters that are difficult to enter using the printer's buttons. However, it's important to remember that WPS only works if both devices support this standard and it's enabled in the router's settings.
| Method | Password needed | Access to the router is required | Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manual input | Yes | No | High |
| WPS Push | No | Yes | Low |
| USB cable | No | No | Average |
| HP Smart App | Yes (automatically) | No | Low |
Some modern routers disable the WPS feature by default for security reasons. If the button on the router doesn't respond, you may need to enable it through the router's web interface. Check the documentation for your internet equipment.
What to do if WPS doesn't work?
If WPS doesn't activate, check if MAC address filtering is enabled on your router. Also, try moving the printer closer to the signal source, as a stable connection is required during initial pairing. In rare cases, rebooting the router before attempting to connect may help.
Resetting the printer's network settings
If the printer has “remembered” the wrong password or you have changed the router and cannot connect the device, the easiest way is to reset network settingsThis will reset the Wi-Fi module to its factory default state, deleting all old connection profiles.
For models HP DeskJet with the display the procedure is performed through the menu: Settings (gear icon) → Net → Restore network settingsOn models without a screen, you usually need to press and hold the buttons simultaneously. Wireless communication And Cancel for 3 seconds until the indicators flash.
After the reset, the wireless indicator will start flashing blue. This means the printer has entered setup mode and is ready to reconnect. You can now use the app. HP Smart or the driver installation wizard to transfer new network data.
⚠️ Note: Resetting network settings does not affect print settings or page counters, but you will need to reconnect the printer to all computers if they were using a direct Wi-Fi connection.
It's important to understand that after the reset, the printer will no longer automatically connect to the previous router. Make sure you have the current Wi-Fi password handy before beginning the recovery process.
Setup via USB cable and HP Smart app
The modern and most convenient way to "tell" the printer a new password is to use a computer or smartphone as an intermediary. You connect the printer to the PC via USB cable, and the installation program transmits Wi-Fi data to the device's wireless modules.
Download and install the application HP Smart (Available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS). Start the printer addition process. Once the program detects the USB device, it will prompt you to set up a wireless connection. The system will automatically take the password from the Wi-Fi network your computer or phone is connected to.
This method eliminates human error: you won't be able to make a mistake when entering characters or mix up the letter case. The program will automatically transmit the necessary information. network parameters to the printer. After successful data transfer, the cable can be disconnected.
In some cases, your antivirus or firewall may block the transfer of network settings. If the process gets stuck during the setup phase, try temporarily disabling your security software. Be sure to re-enable your security software after setup is complete.
Wi-Fi Direct mode as an alternative
If you can’t connect to your main router, you can use the technology Wi-Fi DirectIn this mode, the printer automatically creates an access point to which you connect directly, bypassing your home router. The password for this network is usually printed on a label on the printer case.
Find the logo sticker Wi-Fi Direct On the front panel or inside the cartridge compartment. The SSID (network name) and PIN will be listed there. By connecting to this network from your phone, you can print documents without internet access.
This mode is convenient in offices or locations where connecting new devices to the corporate network is prohibited. However, it's important to remember that when Wi-Fi Direct is enabled, the printer may not have internet access, limiting the ability to update firmware or print via cloud.
Switching between modes is often automatic, but sometimes manual intervention is required via the menu or a button on the device. Make sure the Wi-Fi Direct indicator is on if you plan to use this method.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is the wireless button on an HP DeskJet?
On most models, it's located on the control panel and is indicated by an antenna icon. On models with a touchscreen, the icon may be in the top corner or in the "Network Settings" menu.
Is it possible to find out the Wi-Fi password if the printer is already connected?
No, the printer doesn't allow you to display or print the saved password for security reasons. You must use the WPS method or find the password on your router or in your phone settings.
What should I do if the Wi-Fi indicator is blinking blue?
A blinking blue light means the printer is in setup mode and waiting for a connection. If it stays solid blue, the connection has been established successfully. If it's blinking, try resetting the network settings.
Does my HP 5GHz printer support Wi-Fi?
Most budget models HP DeskJet Only support the 2.4 GHz band. If your router broadcasts networks with the same name (Smart Connect), the printer may not see the network. Separate the networks in the router settings.
How to print a configuration page without a computer?
Press and hold the Cancel button (the cross) for 3 seconds. On some models, you may need to press the Wireless button and the Information button (the "i" icon) simultaneously.