Changing the wireless network password on a printing device often becomes necessary when the default factory settings are no longer satisfactory or when enhanced security measures are required. Many office equipment owners mistakenly believe that network settings are tied exclusively to the router, but modern HP, Canon, Epson, and Brother models have their own module. Wi-Fi Direct, which operates autonomously. This communication channel, which allows printing without a router, requires separate authorization.
The process for updating your credentials can vary significantly depending on the device's touchscreen, firmware version, and brand. In some cases, simply pressing a combination of buttons is enough, while in others, access to a hidden area is required. Embedded Web ServerUnderstanding these differences will help you avoid mistakes and quickly restore your connection from your computer or smartphone.
Before changing settings, make sure the device is turned on and ready. Incorrect actions can lead to a disconnected connection, so it's important to carefully follow the steps appropriate for your model. Below, we'll cover the basic methods for managing network security for your printing equipment.
Differences between a network password and Wi-Fi Direct
There's often confusion between the password for the home Wi-Fi network your printer is connected to and the printer's direct connection password. When you change your router password, you need to reconnect the printer to the new network through the settings menu. However, if the function is Wi-Fi Direct, the printer itself emits a signal, and the password is stored in its internal memory. This is the code most often needed to be changed to restrict unauthorized access.
Wi-Fi Direct technology allows for a direct connection between the device and the printer without an access point. This is convenient for printing from guest phones or in offices where connecting corporate equipment to the public network is prohibited. However, the default factory password, often printed on a sticker, is widely known, creating a vulnerability. Changing this code to a unique one is a basic step. cybersecurity periphery.
It's important to understand that changing the Wi-Fi Direct password doesn't affect the printer's connection to the internet or local network via the router. These two channels operate in parallel. If you reset the network settings, the printer may no longer be visible to computers on the shared network, but the direct printing feature will remain accessible with the new access code.
⚠️ Please note: After changing the Wi-Fi Direct password, all previously connected mobile devices will lose connection to the printer. You will need to re-enter the new code on each smartphone or tablet.
Using the Embedded Web Interface (EWS)
The most versatile and functional way to manage settings is to use the embedded web server. This method is suitable for most HP, Samsung, and Kyocera network models. First, you need to know IP address printer address, which is typically displayed on the device's screen or can be printed as a report sheet. Enter this address into the address bar of a browser on a computer on the same network.
Once the EWS interface is open, go to the tab Network or NetHere you will find the section responsible for wireless connections. Depending on the model, the item you are looking for may be called Wi-Fi Direct Settings, Wireless Direct or simply Wireless networkThis menu contains hidden security settings, including encryption type and passphrase.
What should I do if the web interface doesn't open?
If the page isn't loading, check whether your firewall is blocking access to local addresses. Also, make sure your computer and printer are on the same subnet. Clearing your browser cache or using incognito mode can sometimes help.
In the menu that opens, find the field Wi-Fi Direct Password or Security KeyDelete the old value and enter a new character combination. We recommend using complex passwords of at least 8 characters, including numbers and uppercase and lowercase letters. After making changes, be sure to click the Apply or Apply at the bottom of the page to save the configuration.
☑️ Configuration via web interface
Setting up via the printer control panel
Devices equipped with a color touchscreen allow you to change settings directly on the device, without using a computer. This method is suitable for modern HP OfficeJet Pro, Canon PIXMA, and Epson EcoTank series devices. Menu navigation is performed using the touchscreen or arrow buttons, making the process quite intuitive, although it does require some attention.
To get started, click on the wireless network icon or select Settings (Settings) on the home screen. In the list that opens, look for the section related to network connections. It may be called Network Setup, Wireless Menu or Network settings. Within this section, find the subsection responsible for direct connection - Wi-Fi Direct.
Once you select the desired item, you will see the current status and network name. Click on the option Password or PasswordThe on-screen keyboard will allow you to enter a new combination. Once entered, confirm the action. Some models may require a reboot for the changes to take effect, and a notification will appear on the display.
| Brand | Menu path (approximate) | Peculiarities |
|---|---|---|
| HP | Settings (gear) → Network → Wi-Fi Direct | Confirmation by pressing OK is often required. |
| Canon | Menu → Device Settings → LAN Settings | It may be called Direct Wireless. |
| Epson | Wi-Fi Settings → Wi-Fi Direct → Settings | There is a simple connection mode |
| Brother | Network → Wireless → Wi-Fi Direct | Sometimes hidden in deep menus |
Mobile apps for print management
Modern manufacturers are actively developing smartphone ecosystems, allowing printer control through proprietary apps. This is a convenient way to change the password if you don't have a computer at hand and the printer menu is too complex. For HP, this app HP Smart, for Canon - Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY, for Epson - Epson iPrint.
The process usually looks like this: After adding the printer to the app, select your device from the list. Go to the device settings section (often a gear icon or sliders). Find the section Wireless Direct or Wi-Fi settingsThe option to change your password will be available here. The mobile app interface is often more user-friendly and intuitive than the web interface.
It's worth noting that to change settings through the app, your phone must be connected to the printer either via a USB cable (rare), via the same Wi-Fi network, or directly via Wi-Fi Direct. After changing the password, the app may lose connection and ask you to reconnect, which is a normal security feature.
Reset network settings to factory defaults
If you've forgotten your current password, or your device isn't working properly after multiple changes, the most reliable solution is a full network reset. This will restore all settings, including the Wi-Fi Direct password, to the factory defaults found on the device's label. This is a "core" solution that resolves 99% of software connection issues.
To perform a reset on most models, you need to hold down a certain combination of buttons. Often, this is the button Wireless and a button Cancel (cross), which are held simultaneously for 3-5 seconds until the indicators flash. On models with a screen, the path may lie through Settings → Service → Restore factory settings.
⚠️ Note: Resetting network settings does not delete your personal files scanned to the printer's memory, but it does reset all connection settings to the router. You will need to re-enter your home Wi-Fi password.
After the procedure, reboot the device. Now you can use the standard code from the label to connect. This is especially useful if you bought a used printer and don't know what settings the previous owner had set. A clean boot ensures there are no configuration conflicts.
Problems and their solutions
Users often encounter a situation where a new password isn't accepted or the device doesn't detect the change. Often, the issue lies in the browser's DNS cache or the printer hasn't had time to apply the new settings. In such cases, simply power cycling the router and printer can resolve the issue.
Another common mistake is using special characters that the printer doesn't support. Try to use only Latin letters and numbers. Some older models don't handle spaces or punctuation marks in the password field. If the button Apply is inactive, please check if your password is too short (less than 8 characters).
If all else fails, check your firmware version. Outdated software may contain bugs that prevent the Wi-Fi module from working properly. Updating the firmware via USB or network often resolves hidden security protocol errors.
Is it possible to remove the Wi-Fi Direct password completely?
Technically, some models allow you to set the device to "Open" mode (without a password), but this is highly discouraged. Anyone within range will be able to print documents or, worse, access scanned documents. It's safer to leave the protection enabled.
Where can I find my IP address if I don't have a screen?
On printers without a display, you can find the IP address by printing a network configuration report. This usually involves pressing and holding the wireless button or the "Report" button for a few seconds. Look for the IPv4 Address line in the report.
Does changing the printer password affect print speed?
No, the password itself doesn't affect speed. However, if you choose an overly complex encryption method that the printer's processor processes slowly, a micro-delay is theoretically possible when establishing a connection, but not when transferring data.
What should I do if I forgot my web interface password (admin)?
The EWS settings password (often admin/the password is blank or on a sticker) and the Wi-Fi password are different. If you can't access the EWS settings, try resetting the printer's network settings using the buttons, as described in the section above.
Do I need internet access to change my Wi-Fi Direct password?
No, internet access is not required. Wi-Fi Direct is a local technology. You change the settings within the device. However, if you use the web interface, your computer must be connected to the printer via a network (either local or direct), but external network access is not required.