Changing your wireless network password or replacing your router often leads to a situation where HP printer The device stops responding to print commands. The device simply loses connection to the access point, and new authorization information must be entered to resume operation. This process can be confusing, especially if the device doesn't have a full-sized display.
There are several proven ways to restore the connection, each of which depends on the specific models Your computer's hardware and operating system. We'll cover all current methods, from using the WPS button to manually entering settings through the control panel menu. Understanding these algorithms will allow you to quickly resolve connection issues in the future.
It is important to note that wireless connection Requires an exact match between network security settings and the parameters stored in the printer's memory. Even a single character or encryption error will result in printer failure. Therefore, carefully follow the instructions specific to your interface type.
Preparing to change network settings
Before starting the procedure, make sure you have access to router and you know the new Wi-Fi network password. Without this information, setup will be impossible, as the printer needs up-to-date credentials to authenticate on the local network. Also, make sure the printer is turned on and within range of a strong signal.
If you plan to use a computer for setup, make sure it is connected to the same network you want to connect to. MFPThis is especially important when using software utilities such as HP Smart or HP Utility. In some cases, a temporary connection via USB cable, although modern models often allow for complete over-the-air configuration.
⚠️ Attention: Before you begin, make sure your router is broadcasting in the 2.4 GHz band. Most HP office and home models do not support the 5 GHz band, and attempting to connect to it will result in an error, even if the password is entered correctly.
It's recommended to write down your new password on a piece of paper or save it in a notepad beforehand to avoid searching for it while typing. A common mistake is confusing letter case or symbols that look similar (for example, zero and the letter O). Being accurate at this stage will save you time on repeated entry attempts.
WPS method: quick connection without entering a password
The easiest way to change your Wi-Fi password is HP printer — Use WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method allows you to transfer network information automatically, without having to manually enter a complex security key. It's ideal for models without a keyboard or touchscreen.
First, locate the WPS button on your router. It may be separate or combined with the reset button. Press and hold it for 2-5 seconds until the WPS indicator starts blinking. This indicates that the router has entered pairing mode.
Within two minutes of activating the mode on the router, press and hold the button Wireless or Wi-Fi on the printer's control panel. If your device has a display, select "Wi-Fi Setup" or "Wi-Fi Protected Setup." The wireless light on the printer will blink, waiting for a connection.
The automatic configuration process may take up to two minutes. During this time security protocol The encryption key will automatically be transferred from the router to the printer. Once successfully completed, the wireless network indicator will stop flashing and turn solid blue, indicating a stable connection.
Using the touchscreen control panel
Owners of modern models of the series HP OfficeJet Pro or HP Envy Users can change network settings directly from the color touchscreen. This interface is particularly user-friendly, allowing users to visually select the desired network and enter the password using a virtual keyboard.
Click on the wireless icon or Ethernet at the top of the screen. In the menu that opens, select "Network Settings" or "Wireless Settings." Then, go to the "Wireless Setup Wizard," which will scan for available networks within range.
Find your network name (SSID) from the list and tap it. If the network is hidden, select "Enter network name manually." Once selected, a password field will appear. Use the keyboard that appears to enter the security key, paying attention to the capitalization.
☑️ Checking the connection via the screen
After entering the password, click "OK" or "Done." The printer will attempt to obtain an IP address from the router's DHCP server. A successful connection will be confirmed by a message on the screen and the appearance of a signal icon in the status bar. If the connection is not established, check that the password entered is correct. security key.
Setting up models with a push-button interface and a monochrome display
For models HP LaserJet or DeskJet With a small monochrome screen and navigation buttons, the process is different. There's no full keyboard, so navigation is done through the menu. Press the "Settings" button (the gear icon) or the right arrow key to access the main menu.
Using the arrow keys, scroll to "Network" and press OK. Next, select "Wireless" and confirm. In the next menu, find "Wireless Setup Wizard" and enable it.
The printer will begin searching for networks. When your network name appears on the screen, select it. If a password is requested, you will need to enter it using the navigation buttons to select characters. This may take some time, as each character is selected one at a time from a list of available characters.
| Printer model | Interface type | Availability of WPS | Input complexity |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP LaserJet Pro M404 | Monochrome LCD | Eat | High |
| HP DeskJet 2700 | Buttons + LED | Eat | Low (via app) |
| HP OfficeJet 8020 | Touch color | Eat | Low |
| HP LaserJet M110 | One button | No | Average (via PC) |
After entering all the characters of the password, confirm the action. The printer will attempt to connect. If an error message appears on the screen, you may have entered one of the characters incorrectly. In this case, you will need to repeat the entry process, carefully checking each character. display.
Resetting the printer's network settings to factory defaults
If the printer has "remembered" the old password and refuses to connect to the new network, or if you can't find it in the list of devices, reset the network settings. This will restore Wi-Fi module to its original state, deleting all saved network profiles.
On models with a display, go to "Settings" (gear icon) → "Network Settings" → "Restore Network Settings." Confirm the action by selecting "Yes." On models without a display, find the button combination: usually, it's pressing the "Wireless" button and the "Cancel" button (the cross) simultaneously for 3-5 seconds.
What happens when you reset your settings?
When you reset your network settings, your printer forgets your Wi-Fi network name and password. However, it doesn't reset print settings such as paper size or quality. You'll need to reconnect it to the router using any of the methods described.
After the reset, the wireless indicator will start flashing blue, indicating it's ready for setup. You can now rerun the setup wizard or use WPS to connect to the router with the new password. This often resolves issues with the network module freezing.
Using the HP Smart app for configuration
The modern and most convenient way to change your Wi-Fi password is to use an app HP Smart on your smartphone or PC. It automatically detects your printer and helps you reconfigure it. Download the app from the Microsoft Store, App Store, or Google Play and launch it.
If the printer has already been added to the app but isn't connected to the network, tap its icon. The app will prompt you to "Set up a new device" or "Change Wi-Fi settings." Follow the on-screen instructions: the app will automatically transfer information about the current Wi-Fi network (the one your phone is connected to) to the printer.
For models without a display, the app may ask you to temporarily connect the printer to your computer via USB or use Bluetooth for the initial settings transfer. After receiving network data, mobile device will transfer them to the printing machine, and it will connect automatically.
⚠️ Attention: The HP Smart app interface may be updated. If you don't see the familiar buttons, look for the "Printer Settings" or "Advanced Settings" section. The logic remains the same: the app acts as a bridge between the router and the printer.
This method is especially useful because it eliminates the need to manually enter a password on the printer's small keypad. The HP Smart app handles this process for you, minimizing the risk of error. Once setup is complete, you can print documents directly from your phone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do if my HP printer can't see my Wi-Fi network?
Make sure the printer and router are in the same room for setup. Check that the network name (SSID) isn't hidden in the router settings. Also, make sure the router is operating in the 2.4 GHz band, as older HP models don't detect 5 GHz networks. Try rebooting the router.
Is it possible to change a Wi-Fi password without a computer?
Yes, this can be done through the printer's control panel (if it has a screen and buttons) or using WPS technology. You can also use the HP Smart mobile app, which allows you to set up a network via your smartphone.
The printer connects, but prints with a delay or does not print at all.
This may indicate a weak Wi-Fi signal or an IP address conflict. Try moving the printer closer to the router. Also, reset the printer's network settings and reconnect it to obtain a fresh IP address from the router.
How to find out the printer's IP address after changing the password?
Press the Wireless button or the Information button (i) on your printer. It will print a network configuration report, which will show your current IP address. You can also find this information in the HP Smart app under Device Settings.