Finding the WPS PIN on an HP printer lets you connect securely to Wi‑Fi without typing a complex password on the device. This guide walks you through several reliable methods to locate or generate the WPS PIN on popular HP LaserJet and DeskJet models.
If the printer control panel shows a PIN, it is usually an 8‑digit number required for WPS push‑connect from your router or laptop.
| Method | When to Use | Where to Find | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Control Panel | Printer is on and connected to the same network | Network or Wi‑Fi menu in the printer menu | Often labeled WPS PIN or Wi‑Fi Protected Setup |
| Embedded on Label | Initial setup before network connection | Back or side label of the printer | Usually not the WPS PIN; check documentation instead |
| HP Smart App | Printer added via mobile, but PIN not visible on device | Printer settings under Wi‑Fi or Network | Shows or generates the PIN for WPS on the router |
| Embedded System Web | Need to view network settings from a PC | Embedded web server (EWS) at printer IP address | Advanced; requires accessing internal pages safely |
Access WPS PIN from the Printer Control Panel
Use the printer menu when the device is already powered on and connected to your local network.
Navigate to Network Settings
Open the Home or Setup menu, then select Network or Wi‑Fi. Look for WPS or Wi‑Fi Protected Setup and choose Show WPS PIN if available.
Confirm the 8‑Digit Code
Write down the displayed code exactly; you typically have two minutes to enter it on your router or computer before it changes.
Generate WPS PIN Through the HP Smart App
The HP Smart App provides a clear view of the current WPS PIN even when the printer screen does not show it.
Open Printer Settings
Select your HP printer in the app, go to Settings, then Network or Wi‑Fi. The WPS PIN is usually listed or can be regenerated with a button.
Regenerate if Necessary
If the router rejects the old code, tap Regenerate PIN in the app, then enter the new one on the router within the time limit.
Using the Embedded Web Server (EWS)
Advanced users can access internal printer pages to locate or refresh the WPS PIN.
Find the Printer IP Address
Print a network report from the printer or check Devices & Printers in Windows, the printer Properties, or the HP Smart App for the current IP.
Open the EWS Securely
Enter http://printer-ip or https://printer-ip in a browser, log in with embedded credentials if prompted, and navigate to Wi‑Fi or WPS settings to view or reset the PIN.
Router and Computer WPS Methods
Once you know the PIN, you can complete the connection from the router or a PC.
Push Button on Router
Some routers support entering the PIN directly; if not, use the router admin page and paste the HP printer WPS PIN to initiate pairing.
PIN Method on Windows or Linux
In Wi‑Fi settings, choose WPS PIN, enter the 8‑digit code from your HP printer, and wait for the system to confirm a successful connection.
Key Takeaways for HP Printer WPS PIN Access
- Control Panel: Check Network → Wi‑Fi → WPS to view the current PIN.
- HP Smart App: View or regenerate the PIN quickly from your phone.
- Embedded Web Server: Access advanced settings using the printer IP for precise control.
- Router Integration: Enter the 8‑digit PIN on your router within the time window to complete pairing.
- Security: Regenerate the PIN periodically and avoid sharing it publicly.
FAQ
Reader questions
Why does my HP printer not show a WPS PIN on the display?
The printer may be disconnected from the network or the menu path differs by model; use the HP Smart App or Embedded Web Server to retrieve it, or ensure Wi‑Fi is enabled and the network is stable.
What should I do if the WPS PIN keeps changing?
Each time you regenerate the PIN in the HP Smart App or EWS, the previous code becomes invalid; enter the new PIN into your router or PC immediately to avoid connection failures.
Can I use a WPS PIN for an Ethernet connection?
No, WPS is designed only for wireless setups; for Ethernet, assign a static IP or rely on DHCP, and do not expect WPS functionality over wired links.
Is it safe to share the WPS PIN with others?
Treat the WPS PIN like a network password; sharing it allows others to join your Wi‑Fi, so disclose it only to trusted users and regenerate it if you suspect unauthorized access.