One of the easiest ways to connect your HP DeskJet printer to a wireless network is through Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS). This method simplifies the process and ensures a secure connection. If you are new to WPS or can't find the WPS PIN on your HP DeskJet printer, this blog will walk you through the various ways to find it and provide tips for troubleshooting common problems.
What Is WPS?
Before we delve into how to find your WPS PIN, let’s take a quick look at what WPS is and why it’s so important.
Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) is a network security standard that allows users to easily connect devices to a wireless network without having to enter complex passwords. It provides a simple way to securely connect devices using either a PIN or a push-button method.
For HP DeskJet printers, WPS provides a convenient way to join a wireless network by entering the PIN displayed on the printer or using the push-button feature on your router. This ensures that your printer can securely communicate with the network, protecting your data from unauthorized access.
Where to Find WPS PIN on HP DeskJet Printer
1. Using the Printer’s Control Panel
One of the most direct methods to locate the WPS PIN is through your HP DeskJet printer’s control panel. If your model features a display screen, follow these steps:
Access the Wireless Menu:
Turn on your HP DeskJet printer and navigate to the control panel. Look for a button or menu option labeled “Wireless” or “Network.” This is usually indicated by a wireless icon or network symbol.
Find WPS Settings:
Once you’re in the wireless or network menu, look for an option called “Wi-Fi Protected Setup” or “WPS.” The exact terminology may vary depending on your printer model.
Display the WPS PIN:
Select the WPS option, and your printer should display the WPS PIN on the screen. This PIN is typically a series of 8 digits.
If your HP DeskJet model does not have a display screen or if you cannot find the WPS option, you may need to explore alternative methods to locate the PIN.
2. Printing a Network Configuration Page
If you’re unable to find the WPS PIN through the control panel, printing a network configuration page can be a helpful alternative. This page provides a comprehensive overview of your printer’s network settings, including the WPS PIN if available.
Access the Setup Menu:
On your printer’s control panel, navigate to the “Setup” or “Tools” menu. Look for an option labeled “Network Configuration” or “Print Network Configuration Page.”
Print the Configuration Page:
Select the option to print the network configuration page. The printer will produce a document that includes various network settings.
Locate the WPS PIN:
Examine the printed page for a section detailing WPS or network security. The WPS PIN, if available, will be listed here.
The network configuration page provides not only the WPS PIN but also other valuable information such as IP address and network status, which can be useful for troubleshooting.
If the above methods do not yield the desired results, there are advanced techniques to find the WPS PIN on your HP DeskJet printer. These methods involve using software tools or accessing the printer’s web interface.
3. Using the HP Smart App
The HP Smart app is a versatile tool for managing your HP printers, and it can also help you find the WPS PIN. Follow these steps to locate the PIN using the app:
Download and Install the HP Smart App:
If you haven’t already, download the HP Smart app from the App Store (for iOS devices) or Google Play Store (for Android devices). Install the app on your smartphone or tablet.
Connect to Your Printer:
Open the HP Smart app and follow the prompts to connect it to your HP DeskJet printer. Ensure that both your printer and mobile device are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
Access Printer Settings:
Once connected, tap on the printer’s icon within the app to access its settings. Look for a section labeled “Network” or “Wireless.”
Find the WPS PIN:
Within the network settings, the WPS PIN may be displayed if it’s available. The app provides a user-friendly interface to manage and view your printer’s network settings.
4. Using the Printer’s Embedded Web Server (EWS)
If your HP DeskJet printer is connected to your network, you can access its Embedded Web Server (EWS) through a web browser on your computer. Here’s how to locate the WPS PIN using the EWS:
Find the Printer’s IP Address:
Print a network configuration page from the printer to obtain its IP address. Alternatively, check the IP address through the printer’s control panel under network settings.
Open a Web Browser:
On a computer connected to the same network, open a web browser and enter the printer’s IP address into the address bar. Press Enter to access the EWS.
Navigate to Wireless Settings:
Within the EWS, look for tabs or sections related to “Network” or “Wireless.” The layout may vary, but you should find options related to WPS or security settings.
Locate the WPS PIN:
Search for a section detailing WPS or security information. The WPS PIN, if configured, will be displayed here.
The EWS provides a comprehensive view of your printer’s settings and can be a powerful tool for managing network configurations.
Alternative Methods for Connecting Your HP DeskJet Printer
If locating the WPS PIN proves challenging or if your network setup does not support WPS, there are alternative methods to connect your HP DeskJet printer to your wireless network.
1. Using a WPS Push Button
If your router supports the WPS push-button method, you can use it to connect your printer without needing a PIN:
Locate the WPS Button on Your Router:
Find the WPS button on your wireless router. It’s usually labeled “WPS” or marked with a WPS symbol.
Activate WPS on the Printer:
On your HP DeskJet printer, access the wireless settings menu and select the WPS push-button option.
Press the WPS Button:
Press the WPS button on your router within two minutes of selecting the WPS option on your printer. The devices should automatically connect to each other.
2. Manual Wireless Setup
For a more traditional approach, you can manually connect your HP DeskJet printer to your wireless network:
Access Wireless Setup Wizard:
On the printer’s control panel, navigate to the wireless setup wizard or network setup menu.
Select Your Network:
Choose your wireless network from the list of available networks and enter the network password when prompted.
Complete the Setup:
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the connection process. Your printer should now be connected to your Wi-Fi network.
Conclusion
Whether you use the control panel, print a network configuration page, or access advanced methods such as the HP Smart app or embedded web server, this guide provides detailed instructions to help you find the WPS PIN efficiently. With these tips and tricks, you should be well on your way to setting up your HP DeskJet printer and enjoying seamless wireless printing.
