The situation when HP printer The problem of the router no longer being detected or losing connection to the computer is familiar to many users of office equipment. Often, the cause is a change in the home network password, an upgrade of the provider's equipment, or a simple glitch in the device's software. In such cases, standard reconnection methods may not work, and the only effective solution is a complete disconnect. reset network settings to factory values.
This procedure returns network adapter Resetting the printer to its original state deletes all saved Wi-Fi profiles, static IP addresses, and port configurations. After the reset, the device will begin searching for available networks again, allowing you to configure it as if it were fresh out of the box. It's important to understand that this process doesn't affect your personal documents in the print queue or scanner settings unless they are tightly bound to network settings.
In this guide, we'll detail various methods for restoring network configuration on models with and without a display. We'll cover both software methods via the built-in menu and hardware button combinations that work even if the interface freezes. Resetting network settings does not delete fax settings or sent fax history unless you select the option to completely reset all settings. Please be prepared to re-enter your Wi-Fi router password after the procedure.
Preparing to restore network settings
Before you begin any active steps, you need to make sure you have all the necessary information for subsequent setup. You will definitely need SSID (your wireless network name) and its current password. If you've changed your router, make sure the new router is broadcasting in the range supported by your printer (usually 2.4 GHz, as many older models HP LaserJet or DeskJet do not see 5 GHz networks).
It's also worth checking whether the Wi-Fi module itself is enabled on the device. On some models, activating the wireless module requires physically pressing the button with the antenna icon or selecting the corresponding option in the menu. If the wireless indicator isn't lit or flashing, the reset may not initiate correctly.
It's recommended to keep the computer or smartphone you plan to use for configuration handy. Sometimes, after a reset, a quick response is required to connect via WPS or enter data on the monitor screen. Make sure the printer is within range of a strong signal to avoid errors during reconfiguration.
☑️ Preparing for a network reset
It's important to distinguish between a simple device restart and a factory reset. Turning the device off and on with the power button does not clear the network card's memory. Deleting saved profiles requires a specific sequence of steps, described below. Don't confuse these concepts to avoid wasting time.
Resetting Network Settings on HP Touchscreen Printers
Models of the series HP OfficeJet Pro, ENVY and modern LaserJet Devices with a color display allow you to reset them through a graphical interface. This is the safest and most intuitive method, eliminating input errors. Menu navigation may vary slightly depending on the firmware version, but the logic remains the same for most devices.
To get started, find the icon on the home screen that resembles an antenna, cable, or gear. Typically, the path to the desired function looks like this: Settings (gear icon) → Network → Network Settings → Restore Network SettingsIn some software versions, this option may be called "Restore factory network settings."
⚠️ Attention: Selecting "Restore Factory Defaults" (without specifying "network") may reset the printer not only Wi-Fi but also language settings, paper size, and system parameters. Be careful when selecting this menu item.
After confirming the action, the device will reboot the network module. The screen may go dark for a few seconds and then turn back on. The wireless indicator will begin flashing, indicating the printer is in search mode and ready to pair.
What if the menu is in a foreign language?
If the printer interface is in a language you don't understand, look for an icon with a globe or the letter "A" with the language symbol. The network reset option is often indicated by an antenna icon with a down arrow or a cross. Try navigating by the icons: Gear -> Antenna -> Back/Refresh Arrow.
If there's no explicit "Reset" option in the menu, try looking for the "Advanced" section within the network settings. These often contain options for resetting the TCP/IP stack or clearing the DNS cache, which can also resolve the connection issue without a full reset.
Using the Wireless Button and Cancel Button to Reset
For non-touch screen models such as many HP DeskJet or HP LaserJet MFP With a monochrome display, there's a tried-and-true hardware combination. This method is universal and works on most devices that have a dedicated Wireless button and a Cancel button with a red X icon.
The procedure is as follows: Make sure the printer is turned on and ready. Simultaneously press and hold two buttons for 5 seconds: Wireless (antenna) and Cancel (cross). You need to hold them until the power indicator and the wireless network indicator start blinking simultaneously.
This combination forcibly clears the network adapter's memory. After you release the buttons, the indicators may flash for about a minute while the device restores factory network settings. Do not unplug the printer during this time.
- 📶 Find the button with the image of an antenna (Wireless).
- ❌ Find the button with a red cross (Cancel).
- ⏱️ Press and hold both buttons simultaneously for 5-7 seconds.
- 💡 Wait until the power and Wi-Fi indicators flash simultaneously.
There is an alternative method for some models HP Smart Tank or Ink TankIf the Cancel button combination doesn't work, try holding down the "Wireless" button and the "Information" button (the "i" icon) for 5 seconds. The device will respond the same way—resetting network settings.
Secret key combination for models without a screen (laser printers)
Laser printers series HP LaserJet Pro M15w, M28w and similar compact models often lack a full menu or even a Wi-Fi button on the case. They have a special hidden reset procedure, activated via the Resume button.
To reset such devices, you must turn off the printer. Then press and hold the button. Continue (triangle in a circle) and simultaneously turn on the power. Hold the button for about 10-20 seconds until all the indicators light up or start flashing in a specific sequence.
After releasing the button, the printer will perform a cold boot of the network module. This action may also initiate WPS mode, so be prepared to quickly connect via your computer if the device enters pairing mode.
| Printer model | Button combination | Retention duration | Success indicator |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP DeskJet (2600, 3700 series) | Wireless + Cancel | 5 seconds | Antenna and power blinking |
| HP LaserJet M15w / M28w | Resume (when turned on) | 10-20 seconds | All indicators are on |
| HP OfficeJet (with screen) | Menu → Network → Reset | Tapping on the screen | Restart the screen |
| HP Smart Tank (500, 600 series) | Wireless + Info (i) | 5 seconds | Network indicator blinking |
If none of the methods produce the desired result, it is possible that the device has Energy Saving Mode (Power Saving Mode), which locks some button functions. Try waking the printer by pressing the power button first, and only then perform the combination.
Setting up Wi-Fi after a reset
After a successful reset, the printer enters setup mode. The wireless indicator will typically blink blue, indicating the device is discoverable. Now you need to pair it with your router.
The easiest way is to use technology WPSIf your router has a WPS button, press it, then within 2 minutes, press and hold the Wireless button on the printer (or the button with the antenna icon) until it starts blinking. The printer will automatically receive the network information and password.
If WPS isn't available, use a computer or smartphone. Connect to the printer's temporary network (usually named "HP-Setup-xxx" or "Direct-xx-HP-Printer"). Once connected, open your browser; it should automatically redirect you to the setup page, where you'll need to select your home network and enter the password.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure your smartphone or PC you're using to set up the printer is connected to a 2.4 GHz network. Printers rarely support the 5 GHz standard, and if your phone operates on the 5 GHz band, it may simply not see the printer in setup mode.
An alternative option is to use an app HP SmartDownload it to your smartphone, tap "Add Printer," and follow the on-screen instructions. The app will automatically find the device in reset mode and transfer the saved Wi-Fi passwords to it.
Troubleshooting and connection diagnostics
Even after a proper reset, difficulties may still occur. If the printer won't connect, check if your router is blocking new devices. Modern routers often have filtering enabled. MAC addressesIf you have this type of protection, add the printer's MAC address (found on the sticker on the back) to the list of allowed addresses.
Another common issue is a hidden SSID. If your network name is hidden, the printer won't be able to find it automatically. You'll need to temporarily make the network visible in your router settings, connect the printer, and then hide the SSID again if necessary.
- 🚫 Check if "Airplane Mode" is enabled on your router.
- 🔒 Make sure the encryption type is WPA2-AES (older printers do not support WPA3).
- 📶 The distance between the router and the printer should not exceed 10 meters indoors.
- 🔄 Try setting a static IP address if your router's DHCP server is overloaded.
Sometimes updating the printer firmware helps. Connect the device to your computer via USB, go to the official HP support website, download the latest firmware for your model, and update the device. This may fix network module software errors.
What should I do if the printer sees the network but doesn't connect?
The problem is most likely with the password or encryption type. Try simplifying your router password, using only numbers and Latin letters, without special characters. Also, check if there's a limit on the number of connected devices in your router settings.
Is it possible to reset the settings via the web interface (EWS)?
Yes, if the printer still has an IP address and is accessible on the network. Enter the printer's IP address in the browser's address bar, go to the "Networking" tab, select "Wireless," and click "Restore Factory Defaults."
Will the page counter reset after resetting Wi-Fi?
No, resetting network settings does not affect the Total Page Count in any way. This setting is stored in the main controller's non-volatile memory and is not affected by resetting the network adapter.
The printer stopped responding after a reset, what should I do?
Perform a full power cycle: turn off the printer, unplug the power cord for 60 seconds, then turn it back on. If this doesn't help, a full system reset may be necessary via the service menu, but this is a risky operation for the average user.