The question of which password to use to connect an HP printer to a wireless network often confuses users due to a confusion of terminology. Many confuse the password for the Wi-Fi network itself, the device administrator password, and the special PIN required for WPS pairing. Understanding the difference between these access keys is the first step to successfully setting up the equipment without the help of specialists.
In most modern models of the brand Hewlett-Packard And HP Inc. An automatic security key generation system is used, which is tied to a specific device serial number. However, there are universal factory combinations and alternative authorization methods that bypass the standard procedures for entering complex characters. Below, we will discuss all possible options and how to use them.
If you have just unpacked your device, please note that The standard PIN for WPS is often the same as the first 8 digits of the serial number (SN), printed on a sticker on the back or under the scanner. This feature is applicable to many DeskJet, Envy, and OfficeJet series models released in recent years and significantly simplifies initial configuration.
Factory default passwords and their locations
Finding the correct credentials usually begins with a physical inspection of the device itself. Company engineers place information stickers in easily accessible locations so users can quickly find the necessary data. Depending on the form factor of your MFP, the sticker may be located on the rear panel, under the lift-up scanner, or even inside the cartridge compartment.
On the label you are interested in the field marked as Pin Code or simply WPS PinThis is an eight-digit numeric code required when connecting via WPS. It's important not to confuse it with the MAC address or model number, as they have different formats. For older models, where the sticker may have worn off, a universal code sometimes works. 00000000, but this is rather the exception than the rule.
There is also the concept of a password for logging into the web interface (EWS), which by default can be empty or equal to adminHowever, this password is not used for wireless connection to the router. Wireless Direct, direct connection technology, often requires entering a code, which is also indicated on the sticker, but can be changed by the user through the device menu.
⚠️ Caution: If the factory data sticker is damaged or missing, do not attempt to guess the password using brute force. This may lock the setup interface. In this case, you will need to perform a factory reset to restore the network settings to their default values.
WPS method: connection without entering a password
Technology Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) was developed specifically to simplify the process of connecting peripherals to a home network. Instead of entering a complex alphanumeric password for the router on a small printer screen or via a computer, you can use secure pairing. This is especially useful for devices without a display, such as many models in the HP DeskJet.
To implement this method, your router must also support WPS and have a corresponding physical button or software option in the web interface. The process is as follows: press the WPS button on the router, then activate search mode on the printer within two minutes. The devices exchange encryption keys automatically.
If your router doesn't have a physical button, you can use the PIN method. The printer generates a random code (or you enter it from a sticker), which you enter into the router settings. This creates a secure tunnel for transmitting network data.
☑️ WPS connection algorithm
It's worth noting that some modern routers may have WPS disabled by default for security reasons. In this case, you'll need to access the router settings via a browser and manually enable the protocol before pairing.
Using the HP Smart app to set up
The most modern and reliable way to configure is to use proprietary software. HP SmartThis app is available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It takes care of all the work of finding the device on the network and providing it with the necessary credentials, eliminating the need to manually enter passwords.
When you first launch the app, you'll be prompted to add a new printer. If the device is in setup mode (the blue wireless network indicator is blinking), the app will detect it automatically. You'll only need to select your Wi-Fi network from the list and enter the password once on your smartphone or PC.
During setup, the app may ask you to confirm (by flashing the printer's indicator) or to move closer to the device to activate Bluetooth pairing. This is necessary for the initial handshake between the device and the MFP.
What should I do if HP Smart doesn't see my printer?
Make sure Bluetooth and location services are enabled on your phone. Also, check that the printer is in setup mode (the wireless indicator is blinking). If the indicator is solid, reset the network settings by holding down the Wireless and Cancel buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds.
An important advantage of using HP Smart is the ability to update the firmware during the setup process. Current software Fixes many known connectivity bugs and improves connection stability, which is especially important for older models that may not work well with new router encryption standards.
Reset network settings to factory defaults
If the previous owner changed the settings or you moved to a new office with a different router, the printer may attempt to connect to the old network, ignoring the new commands. In this case, a full reset of the network settings is required. This does not affect other device settings, such as print quality or calibration.
Most non-touchscreen models have a universal key combination. Typically, you need to simultaneously press and hold the wireless button (Wireless) and the cancel button (Cancel(marked with a red cross) and hold them for about 3-5 seconds. The power indicator should blink, indicating a reset.
For models with touch screen such as HP OfficeJet Pro or HP Envy, the procedure is performed through the menu. The path usually looks like this: Settings (gear icon) → Network settings → Reset network settingsAfter confirming the action, the device will restart the network module and enter connection standby mode.
| Printer series | Reset method (buttons) | Success indicator | Additional action |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP DeskJet 2xxx, 3xxx | Wireless + Cancel (3 sec) | The Wireless indicator is flashing | Launch HP Smart |
| HP LaserJet MFP | Settings → Network → Reset | The screen turns off and on | Check IP address |
| HP Envy Photo | Wireless + Info (i) | Both indicators are flashing | Connect to HP Setup |
| HP OfficeJet Pro | Menu → Network Reset | Sound signal | Rebooting the router |
⚠️ Important: After resetting your network settings, your printer will no longer be visible on the network. You'll need to repeat the setup process as if you just took the device out of the box. Make sure you know your Wi-Fi password.
Problems with 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies
One of the most common reasons why a printer won't connect even with the correct password is frequency band incompatibility. The vast majority of HP printers only support the standard Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz, while modern routers often combine 2.4 and 5 GHz networks under one name (Band Steering technology).
In this situation, the printer may become "lost" or not see the network at all. The solution is to separate the networks in the router settings. You need to give them different names, for example, HomeWiFi And HomeWiFi_5GAfter this, when setting up the printer, select a network without a 5G adapter.
It's also worth checking the security type. HP printers work correctly with the protocols. WPA2-Personal (AES). If you have legacy WEP or, conversely, the newer WPA3 in "only" mode, the device may reject the password even if it is entered correctly. It is recommended to use mixed WPA2/WPA3 mode or pure WPA2.
Signal range also plays a role. At 2.4 GHz, the signal penetrates walls better but is susceptible to interference from microwaves and Bluetooth devices. If your printer is located far from the router, try moving it closer during setup to eliminate signal strength issues.
Setting up a static IP and direct connection
In corporate networks or networks with complex configurations, manual IP address assignment is sometimes required. This is done through the embedded web server (EWS). To access it, you need to know the printer's current IP address, which can be found by printing a configuration report (usually by pressing Information or i).
By entering the IP address in the browser address bar, you will be taken to the control menu. In the section Network → IPv4 You can set a static address so that the printer is always accessible via the same path. This eliminates problems when, after rebooting the router, the computer "loses" the printer due to a change in the dynamic address.
There is also a mode Wi-Fi Direct, which allows you to connect to the printer directly, without a router. In this case, the connection password (WPA2 key) is generated by the printer itself. You can find it by printing a configuration report or viewing the device's screen in the Wi-Fi Direct menu.
Using a direct connection is convenient when you need to quickly print a document from your phone while visiting a friend or in an office where connecting to the company's local network is prohibited. However, data transfer speeds in this mode may be lower than through a full-fledged router.
Diagnostics and common connection errors
Even if you know the correct password, you may encounter the "Unable to connect" error. Often, the problem lies not with the password, but with the drivers or operating system cache. Windows may store old device profiles that conflict with the new connection attempt.
It is recommended to completely remove the old printer from the system before trying again. In Windows, this is done via Settings → Devices → Printers & ScannersAfter removing the device and its drivers (via Print Server Properties), restart the computer and start the setup again.
Antivirus software and firewalls can also block the printer's discovery process on the network. Try temporarily disabling your third-party antivirus software during setup. If this helps, add the HP app and printer port to the exceptions.
Why doesn't the printer see the 5 GHz network?
Most HP printers are equipped with Wi-Fi modules that operate only in the 2.4 GHz band. They physically cannot "see" the 5 GHz network. You need to ensure that your router is broadcasting the 2.4 GHz network and that the network name is not hidden.
What is the PIN code on the screen when installing drivers?
This is a security code that the Windows or macOS operating system requests to confirm that you really want to allow the computer access to the printer. This code is displayed on the printer screen or printed as a report.
Is it possible to connect an HP printer to a phone without a router?
Yes, using Wi-Fi Direct technology. In this case, the phone connects directly to the Wi-Fi signal broadcast by the printer itself. The password for this connection is provided in the configuration report or on the device's sticker.
Where can I find a driver if I don't have a disk?
Driver discs often contain outdated versions. It's best to download the latest software from the official HP website in the support section, specifying the exact model of your device. The HP Smart app will also automatically download the necessary components.