Wireless printing has become a standard in today's environment, but users often face a situation where they need to connect a new device, and Wi-Fi network password The printer's code is lost or never installed. This is a common problem, especially if the equipment has been sitting idle for a long time or was purchased second-hand. Finding the right combination of characters can be a daunting task if you don't know where to look.
There are several proven ways to restore access to your MFP's wireless settings. The methods vary depending on the manufacturer and model, but the general principles are similar. In this article, we'll discuss how to find your printer's Wi-Fi password using built-in tools, software, and the physical buttons on the printer's housing.
Before you take any action, it's important to understand the difference between the password for logging into the device's web interface and the security key for the wireless network itself. Wi-Fi Direct Connecting to a router requires different approaches. We'll cover all the details so you can quickly set up printing from any device.
Finding the password on the sticker and in the documentation
The easiest and fastest way to find the factory connection data is to inspect the device's case. Manufacturers often place all the necessary information on special stickers. These are usually located on the back panel, side, or under the removable paper tray cover. You need to find the field marked as WPS PIN, Password or Security Key.
If the sticker is worn off or missing, refer to the original packaging or user manual. In some cases, it may contain a separate card with a unique code for initial setup. However, keep in mind that if the password has been changed previously, this information will no longer be valid.
It's important to note that not all models have a unique default password. A standard combination is often used, which can be easily found online if you know the device model. However, for security reasons, it's best to immediately change the factory settings to a personalized one.
Using the WPS button to connect
Technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) Allows you to connect devices to the network without manually entering a complex password. This method is ideal if you don't know the security key but have physical access to the router. Most modern printers have a dedicated button with a corresponding icon or it's combined with the wireless button.
The connection process is as follows: press the WPS button on the router, then do the same on the printer within two minutes. The devices automatically exchange encryption keys, and printing becomes possible.
- 🔘 Find the button with two arrows or the Wi-Fi icon on the printer body.
- 📡 Make sure your router supports WPS technology and it is activated.
- ⏱ Observe the time interval: you have about 120 seconds after activation on the router.
- 🔌 If your router doesn't have a WPS button, this method won't work.
It's worth noting that some security system vendors recommend disabling WPS due to potential protocol vulnerabilities. If your network is configured with increased security requirements, this method may be blocked by your network administrator.
Printing a network configuration report
Most office and home MFPs have the ability to print system status reports. These documents contain detailed technical information, including the current Wi-Fi status, IP address, and, in some cases, security settings. This is one of the most reliable ways to obtain data if the device is missing a screen.
To get a report, you usually need to press a specific key combination. For example, on HP models, you often need to hold down the "Wireless" and "Cancel" buttons simultaneously for several seconds. On Canon or Epson devices, the sequence may differ, so it's worth checking the manual for your specific model.
Example of a combination for printing a report:
Menu → Settings → Report → Network Report → Print
In the received document, look for the section Wireless or Network StatusIt may indicate the security type and, less commonly, the password itself if it was stored in plaintext on the device. However, most often, it only displays the network's SSID and connection status.
What to do if the report does not print?
If the printer isn't responding to report printing commands, check the paper tray and ink levels. It's also possible that the report printing feature has been blocked in the security settings by your network administrator.
Setup via USB cable and utility
If wireless methods don't work, a wired connection is the most effective solution. Using a USB cable, you can transfer Wi-Fi settings from your computer to the printer. This requires installing the full software from the manufacturer's official website.
During the driver installation process, the setup wizard will prompt you to select a connection type. If you select wireless, the program will ask you to enter your Wi-Fi network password. Once you enter the password, your computer will transfer it to the printer via a USB cable, and the device will connect to the router.
| Manufacturer | Name of the utility | Peculiarities |
|---|---|---|
| HP | HP Smart / HP Utility | Automatic device search |
| Canon | Canon IJ Network Tool | Advanced network settings |
| Epson | EpsonNet Config | Works even without drivers |
| Brother | Brother iPrint&Scan | Mobile platform support |
| HP | HP Smart | Intuitive interface |
| Canon | Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY | Convenience for photo printers |
| Epson | Epson iPrint | Printing from cloud services |
This method ensures that you're entering the correct password, as the computer is already connected to the network. Typing errors are eliminated if you copy the key from Windows or macOS settings.
Logging into the printer's web interface (EWS)
Advanced users can configure the printer via the device's built-in web server. If the printer is already connected to the network (either via a cable or a previously configured Wi-Fi connection), you can manage its settings through a browser. To do this, enter the device's IP address in the address bar.
You can find the IP address by printing a configuration report (as described above) or by looking at the network settings on the device itself. A section called Networking or Wireless, which displays your current security settings and sometimes allows you to change your Wi-Fi Direct password.
⚠️ Attention: To access the web interface, you may need an administrator login and password. By default, the login is often
adminand the password field is left empty, or specifiedadminIf the data was previously changed and forgotten, a reset will be required.
Interfaces vary greatly between manufacturers. For HP, this might be a "Network" tab, while for Canon, it's "LAN settings." The interface may be in English, even if the drivers are localized in Russian. Be careful when changing settings to avoid disrupting the device's functionality on the corporate network.
Reset network settings to factory defaults
If none of these methods work, or you can't remember the password you changed earlier, there's a radical but effective solution: resetting your network settings. This will return your wireless settings to the factory defaults listed on the sticker.
It's important to understand that this step doesn't delete your personal files on your computer, but the printer will "forget" all known Wi-Fi networks. You'll have to go through the connection process again, just like when you first purchased the device.
☑️ Checklist before resetting settings
The reset procedure is often performed through the menu: Settings → Network → Restore network settingsOn models without a display, you may need to hold down the wireless button and the print cancel button simultaneously for 15-20 seconds until the lights flash.
⚠️ Attention: After resetting the settings, the Wi-Fi Direct network name (if used) will return to the factory default, for example, HP-Print-xx-ModelMake sure you don't confuse it with a neighbor network with a similar name.
Frequently asked questions and connection problems
Even following the instructions, users may encounter unexpected difficulties. Often, the problems stem not from the printer itself, but from router settings or driver issues. Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions to help you troubleshoot.
Please remember that printer software is updated regularly. Menu interfaces may change, and older reset methods may no longer work. Always check the latest documentation on the manufacturer's website for your model.
What should I do if the printer doesn't see the Wi-Fi network?
Make sure the printer and router are within range of a strong signal. Check if the network is operating in the 2.4 GHz band, as many older printer models do not support 5 GHz. Also, try temporarily disabling MAC address filtering on your router.
Is it possible to find out the Wi-Fi password from a smartphone screen?
For security reasons, it's impossible to directly access the password for the network your printer is connected to via your phone. However, if you're using Wi-Fi Direct, the password is often displayed on the printer's screen or printed in a report.
How do I change the Wi-Fi Direct password on my printer?
This can be done through the device menu: go to the Wireless or Network section, select Wi-Fi Direct Settings, and find the Change Password option. Enter the new password and save the changes.
Why is the wireless light orange?
A blinking or solid orange light usually indicates a connection error or low signal strength. Try moving the printer closer to the router or rebooting both devices. If the problem persists, check your router's security settings.