Forgetting your HP printer WiFi password can be frustrating, especially when you need to print something urgently. Your WiFi password is essential to connect your HP printer to your network, enabling wireless printing from your device. If this happens to you, don’t worry. This blog will guide you through the steps to recover or reset your HP printer WiFi password.
I Forgot My HP Printer WiFi Password
Your WiFi password is the key that connects your HP printer to your network. Without it, your printer will not be able to communicate with your device, making wireless printing impossible. There are a few reasons why this could happen:
You may have misplaced the original document containing your default WiFi password.
The password may have been changed but not updated in your records.
You may have recently moved or set up a new network without writing down the new credentials.
Whatever the reason, not being able to connect your printer to WiFi can seriously disrupt your workflow.
How to Fix: I Forgot My HP Printer WiFi Password
1. Checking Your Documentation
Before delving into more complex solutions, it's worth checking any existing documentation you may have.
Original Packaging or Manual
The default WiFi password is often included in the user manual or printed on a sticker on the printer or original packaging. Here's how to check:
Find the original box: Find the original box or packaging of your HP printer. Look for stickers or labels on the box.
Check the user manual: If you kept your user manual, it may contain the default WiFi password. Look for a section titled "Network Setup" or "WiFi Setup."
Check the sticker on the printer: Some HP printers have stickers on the device itself, usually on the bottom or back. These stickers often contain important information, such as the default WiFi password, serial number, and other credentials.
Personal Notes or Digital Documents
Sometimes, we store passwords in digital documents or physical notes.
Check your password manager: If you use a password manager, check if you have saved your WiFi password there.
Search your digital notes: Check any digital notes or documents on your computer or smartphone where you may have saved your passwords.
Check your physical notes: If you have a habit of writing down passwords, check any notebooks, sticky notes, or other physical records where you may have written down your WiFi passwords.
2. Router Login
This is also a good way to find your HP WiFi password. If your printer has been connected to the network before, you can retrieve the password by logging into the router's settings page. Here's how:
Find Your Router’s IP Address: This is usually printed on a sticker on the router. Common IP addresses include 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1.
Access the Router’s Settings: Open a web browser and enter the IP address in the address bar. This will take you to the router’s login page.
Log In: Use the admin credentials to log in. If you haven’t changed them, the default username and password can also be found on the router or in the manual.
Navigate to WiFi Settings: Once logged in, look for the “Wireless” or “WiFi” section. Here you can view the current WiFi password.
3. Using HP Smart App
You can also solve it through the HP Smart app. The HP Smart app is designed to simplify printer management and can help you connect the printer to WiFi.
Download and Install the HP Smart App
- For iOS Users: Go to the App Store, search for “HP Smart,” and tap the download button to install the app. For Android Users: Go to the Google Play Store, search for “HP Smart,” and tap the install button.
- Launch the App: Once installed, open the HP Smart app on your device.
Open the App and Select Your Printer
- Sign In or Create an HP Account: If you don’t already have an HP account, you’ll need to create one. Follow the on-screen instructions to sign in or sign up.
- Ensure Printer is On: Make sure your HP printer is turned on and within range of your WiFi network.
- Add Your Printer: The app should automatically detect your printer. If not, tap the “+” button to add a new printer. Follow the prompts to locate and select your printer from the list.
Navigate to WiFi Settings
- Access Printer Settings: Once your printer is connected, tap on the printer icon or name to open its settings.
- Open Network Settings: Look for an option like “Network Settings” or “WiFi Settings.” This is where you can manage the printer’s WiFi connection.
- View or Change WiFi Settings: Depending on your printer model, you may be able to view the current WiFi password directly from the app. If not, you can reset the network settings and enter a new password.
Reconnect the Printer to the WiFi
- Select Your Network: If you need to reconnect the printer, select your WiFi network from the list of available networks.
- Enter New Password: Enter the WiFi password when prompted. Make sure you enter it correctly to avoid any connection issues.
- Complete the Setup: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup process. Your printer should now be connected to your WiFi network.
4. Resetting Your Printer’s Network Settings
If you still can't retrieve your password, you may need to reset your printer's network settings. This will clear all stored WiFi information and allow you to start over. Please follow these steps:
Locate the Reset Button: Depending on your printer model, the reset button might be on the back or under a panel. Refer to your user manual if you’re unsure.
Press and Hold the Button: Typically, you need to press and hold the reset button for about 5-10 seconds. Some models might have a combination of buttons to press for the reset.
Reconfigure Network Settings: After resetting, your printer will revert to its default network settings. Use the HP Smart app or the printer’s control panel to reconnect to your WiFi network using the default credentials provided in the manual or packaging.
5. Using the Printer’s Control Panel
Many HP printers come with a built-in control panel that allows you to manage various settings, including network configuration. In addition to the above methods, you can also use the control panel to recover or reset your WiFi password.
Access the Control Panel: Ensure your printer is turned on. Navigate to the control panel, which might be a touchscreen or a series of buttons, depending on your model.
Menu Navigation Instructions: Use the navigation buttons to go to the “Setup” or “Network” menu. The exact steps can vary, so refer to your printer’s manual if necessary.
Locate Network Settings: Within the network settings, look for an option like “Wireless Setup Wizard” or “WiFi Settings.”
Retrieve or Reset the Password: Some models allow you to view the current WiFi password, while others may require you to reset it and enter a new one.
Want to completely reset your HP printer? Check out our blog How to Reset HP Printer to learn more.
6. Contacting HP Support
If all else fails, it's time to contact HP Support. You can contact the HP Support team via phone, community Q&A chat, and email to help you fix your password.
Conclusion
Forgetting your HP printer WiFi password can be a hassle, but with the right steps, you can quickly recover or reset your password. Start by checking existing documentation or using tools like the HP Smart app. If needed, reset your printer's network settings. As a last resort, contacting HP support can get you the help you need.
