It's quite common to need to connect a new device to a printer but have lost or never written down the Wi-Fi Direct password. Many users forget that their printer creates its own wireless network for direct document transfer from a smartphone or tablet. Factory-set passwords are often hidden, changed, or require a reset to reactivate the feature.
Restoring access to Wi-Fi Direct Requires an understanding of how your model stores credentials. Unlike home routers, where the password is often located on a sticker on the bottom, printers may have dynamic passwords or be hidden deep within the menu. In this article, we'll explore all possible access methods, from simple methods of viewing the sticker to complex network resets.
It is worth noting right away that HP, Canon And Epson Different mobile devices use different approaches to security. Some have a static code printed on the device, while others generate it randomly each time it's turned on. Understanding these nuances will save you time and frustration when trying to print an important document from a mobile device.
Finding the password on the device's case and labels
The simplest and most often overlooked method is a physical inspection of the device. Electronics manufacturers are required to provide the user with the initial connection information. Carefully inspect the front panel, the back panel, and the inside of the paper tray. This is where the information sticker is most often located.
Look for a line containing the phrase Wi-Fi Direct Password or WPS PIN. In some models, especially in the series HP DeskJet or Canon PIXMAThis code may be listed as a "WPS PIN code." This eight-digit number is sometimes used as a temporary password during initial pairing. If the sticker is worn off or missing, proceed to software methods.
- 🔍 Carefully inspect the area around the paper tray—small fonts are often hidden there.
- 🔍 Check the inner cover that opens when replacing cartridges.
- 🔍 Look for a combination of numbers next to the Wi-Fi logo or the word Direct.
⚠️ Please note: If the sticker with the factory password is damaged or illegible, it is impossible to restore this specific code using software. In this case, the only solution is a full network settings reset, which we'll discuss below.
It is important to distinguish WPS PIN and the Wi-Fi Direct password. The PIN is often used for quick connections through the Windows or Android menu, while the password is the standard string entered in the wireless network settings. Be careful not to confuse these two when entering them.
Printing a network configuration report
If a physical inspection is inconclusive, the printer can provide you with the necessary information. Most modern models have the ability to print service reports. These documents contain comprehensive technical information, including the current connection status and security settings.
Getting a report usually requires pressing a specific combination of buttons on the control panel. For example, on devices HP Often you need to press the "Wireless" and "Information" buttons at the same time. On models Brother or Canon The procedure may vary and require menu navigation using the arrow keys.
Examples of combinations for different brands
HP: Wireless + Information (i) button. Canon: Menu → Device Settings → Report → LAN Report. Epson: Menu → Wi-Fi → Print Network Status Report.
After printing, find the section Wi-Fi DirectThe SSID (network name) and current password will be listed. Please note that if you've previously changed the settings manually, the report will display the latest data. If the device has never been configured, it may display the factory code.
| Brand | Act 1 | Act 2 | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP | Press (i) | Click Wi-Fi | Page with IP and password |
| Canon | Menu | Device Settings | Printing a list of settings |
| Epson | Wi-Fi button | Hold for 7 seconds | Print network status |
| Brother | Menu | Print Reports | WLAN Report |
Using the Web Interface (EWS)
If your printer is already connected to your local network (even if you don't know its Wi-Fi Direct password, it may be connected to your main router), you can access its settings through a browser. This is called Embedded Web Server or EWS.
First, find out the printer's IP address. You can find it by printing a network report (as described above) or by looking in the list of connected devices on your router. Enter this address (e.g., 192.168.1.45) in the address bar of a browser on a computer that is on the same network.
The device management page will open. Go to the tab Net or Networking, then select Wi-Fi DirectHere you will not only see your current password, but also be able to change it to a more convenient one. Interfaces HP And Canon The web menu looks almost identical to the settings of regular routers.
Please note that some sections of EWS may require an administrator password to access them. By default, this is often blank or set to adminIf you previously installed protection on the web interface, use your credentials.
Reset network settings to factory defaults
If none of the above methods work, or the password has been changed and forgotten, and reports cannot be printed, a radical but effective solution remains: a reset. This will return all network settings, including the Wi-Fi Direct password, to the factory defaults indicated on the sticker.
The reset procedure varies depending on the model. On touchscreen devices, this is done through the menu. Settings → Net → Restore network settingsOn models without a display, you often need to hold down a combination of buttons (such as "Wireless" and "Cancel") for 15-20 seconds until the lights start flashing.
☑️ Checklist before resetting the network
⚠️ Please note: After resetting your network settings, your printer will "forget" your home Wi-Fi router. You will need to reconnect the printer to the internet if you use it to print from a PC or via cloud services.
After rebooting the device, the password will return to the default one. This the only guaranteed way Gain access if the previous owner or you yourself changed the code and forgot it. Write down the new (old) data immediately after recovery.
Configuration via the manufacturer's mobile app
Modern ecosystems allow you to control your printer directly from your smartphone. Apps HP Smart, Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY or Epson iPrint They can often automatically read network parameters or help change them without having to delve into the complex menus of the device itself.
Connect your phone to the same Wi-Fi network as your printer (if possible), or connect to the printer via Bluetooth (if supported). In the device settings section of the app, you'll often find a "Wi-Fi Direct Settings" option. Here you can view the current code or set a new one.
- 📱 Download the official app for your printer brand.
- 📱 Register your device in the app (if you haven't already).
- 📱 Go to your device's settings and find the wireless section.
The app is especially convenient to use because its interface is adapted for mobile screens and often includes tooltips. Furthermore, the app HP Smart and similar devices can automatically update the password on the phone when it is changed on the printer, eliminating the need for manual entry.
Security issues and password changes
Using the factory password is risky. Default combinations are often known and easily guessed by attackers within range. If you use the Wi-Fi Direct If you are in an office or apartment building, we strongly recommend changing the code to a unique one.
Changing your password is done through the web interface (EWS) or the printer menu itself. Create a complex combination, but one you can remember or store securely. Avoid using birthdays or simple sequences like 12345678.
Keep in mind that changing your Wi-Fi Direct password doesn't affect your main home network password. These are two different security systems. However, if someone gains access to your printer, they could theoretically intercept documents being printed, so security is important.
What should I do if the Wi-Fi button on my printer is not lit?
If the wireless indicator is not active, the Wi-Fi module may be disabled in the settings or the device may be in deep sleep mode. Try pressing the wireless button once. If that doesn't work, unplug the printer for 30 seconds and then plug it back in. In rare cases, a firmware update may be required.
Is it possible to connect a printer without a password?
Technically, some older models allow you to connect in WPS mode by pressing a button on the router and printer without entering a code. However, modern security standards require authentication. Fully open Wi-Fi Direct networks on printers are almost never found on devices manufactured after 2015.
How many characters are in a Wi-Fi Direct password?
Typically, the factory password consists of 8 characters (numbers and letters). When configured manually via the web interface, most printers support passwords between 8 and 63 characters long, which complies with the WPA2 standard.