Where to Find WPS Pin on HP Printer – Quick & Easy Guide

Where to Find WPS Pin on HP Printer (Solved in 30 Seconds!)

Where to Find WPS Pin on HP Printer (Fast Fix!)

Ever stared at your HP printer, desperately searching for the WPS PIN like it’s a hidden treasure? You’re not alone! Over the past decade, I’ve helped hundreds of frustrated users—from home offices to corporate setups—locate their elusive WPS PIN (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) and get their wireless printing back on track.

A missing or incorrect WPS PIN can grind your workflow to a halt, leaving you stuck between a printer that won’t connect and a deadline that won’t budge. But here’s the good news: finding your WPS PIN on an HP printer is easier than you think—if you know where to look.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly where to find the WPS PIN on your HP printer, whether it has a touchscreen, a basic display, or no screen at all. I’ll also share insider tricks I’ve picked up from years in the field, like what to do if the WPS PIN isn’t showing or the WPS button isn’t working.

By the end, you’ll be able to connect your HP printer wirelessly in minutes—no more guesswork, no more frustration. Let’s dive in!

To understand how wireless setup works, check out our What is a WPS PIN on a Printer – Easy Setup Guide for a clear explanation and step-by-step instructions.

What is a WPS PIN & Why Do You Need It?

Before we hunt down that elusive code, let’s answer a fundamental question: What exactly is a WPS PIN, and why does your HP printer need it?

WPS PIN Explained

A WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) PIN is an 8-digit numeric code that acts like a secure handshake between your HP printer and wireless router. Instead of manually typing in a long Wi-Fi password, WPS lets devices connect with just this short PIN—making setup faster while maintaining security.

“Technology is best when it brings people together.” — Matt Mullenweg
This quote perfectly captures WPS’s purpose: simplifying connections so you can focus on printing, not network headaches.

When You’ll Need Your HP Printer’s WPS PIN

From my experience, these are the most common situations where that WPS PIN becomes crucial:

• First-time wireless setup (especially for older HP LaserJet or OfficeJet models)
• Reconnecting after changing routers or network settings
• Troubleshooting when the “HP printer WPS button not working” error appears
• Security resets where the default WPS PIN needs verification

How WPS Works (The Behind-the-Scenes Magic)

Here’s the simple breakdown:

1. You enter the WPS PIN (found on your printer) into your router’s admin panel
2. The two devices authenticate securely
3. Your HP printer joins the network without ever exposing your main Wi-Fi password

Pro Tip: Many HP printers (like Envy and DeskJet models) generate a unique WPS PIN each time, while some older units may use a default WPS PIN like 1234—always check your manual first!

Where to Find the WPS Pin on Your HP Printer

Now that we understand why the WPS PIN matters, let’s get to the heart of the matter: where exactly is it hiding? Depending on your HP printer model, the WPS PIN can be found in a few different places. I’ll walk you through every possible method—so whether you have a fancy touchscreen model or an older printer with just a few buttons, you’ll track it down in no time.

Method 1: On the Printer’s Screen (For Touchscreen Models)

If your HP printer has a display (like many OfficeJet or PageWide models), finding the WPS PIN is straightforward:

1. Tap Settings (or the gear icon).
2. Navigate to Wireless > WPS PIN.
3. Your 8-digit code will appear—write it down immediately!

   Pro Tip: Some printers time out and hide the PIN after 30 seconds. If this happens, check the HP Smart App (more on that below) or restart the WPS process.

Method 2: Printed Configuration Sheet (For Non-Touchscreen Models)

Older HP printers (like many DeskJet and LaserJet models) don’t have screens—but they can print the WPS PIN on demand. Here’s how:

1. Press and hold the Wireless button + Cancel button simultaneously for 3 seconds.
2. The printer will spit out a Network Configuration Page.
3. Look for “WPS PIN” under the Wireless Settings section.

   Real-World Note: I’ve seen cases where the WPS PIN prints in tiny font—grab a magnifier if needed! This method works for most HP Envy, DeskJet, and older OfficeJet models.

Method 3: Via the HP Smart App

If your printer supports it, the HP Smart App (iOS/Android) can reveal the WPS PIN digitally:

1. Open the app and select your printer.
2. Tap Printer Settings > Advanced Settings > WPS PIN.
3. The app displays the current PIN—no paper needed!

   Bonus Hack: If the app says “WPS PIN not available,” ensure your printer is connected to Wi-Fi first. Sometimes, a quick reboot fixes this.

Troubleshooting WPS PIN Issues: When Things Go Wrong

Even with the right steps, sometimes technology has other plans. Over my decade in printer support, I’ve seen every WPS hiccup imaginable. Let’s tackle the most common issues—and more importantly, how to fix them.

Problem 1: “WPS PIN Not Showing on HP Printer”

Symptoms: Blank screen where PIN should appear, or missing from network report

What I Do First:

1. Power cycle everything – Turn off printer & router for 30 seconds
2. Check for firmware updates – Outdated software often causes this
3. Alternative access – Try the HP Smart App if the physical display fails

“Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” – Seneca
(Translation: Having these troubleshooting steps ready is your best preparation!)

Problem 2: “WPS PIN HP Printer Not Working”

Symptoms: PIN is rejected or connection fails repeatedly

Field-Proven Solutions:

• Temporarily disable firewalls/antivirus (they often block WPS requests)
• Reset network settings on the printer (found in Wireless > Restore Network)
• Try WPS Push Button method instead if available

  Industry Insight: According to HP’s 2023 Connectivity Report, 42% of WPS failures stem from router compatibility issues

Problem 3: “WPS PIN Timeout”

Symptoms: PIN disappears before you can use it

My Technician’s Toolkit:

1. Speed is key – Have your router admin page open before generating PIN
2. Re-generate the PIN via:
   » Printer menu (Settings > Wireless > Regenerate PIN)
   » HP Smart App (Printer Settings > Advanced)
3. Extend timeout – Some routers allow adjusting WPS window in admin settings

How to Connect Your HP Printer Using WPS PIN

Now that you’ve found your WPS PIN, let’s put it to work! Connecting your HP printer via WPS is usually a quick process, but there are some nuances I’ve learned from hundreds of installations. Here’s my foolproof method:

Step-by-Step Connection Guide

1. Prepare Your Router
   » Locate the WPS button (usually on back/side of router)
   » Press and hold for 2-3 seconds until the WPS light blinks
   » Pro Tip: Some ISPs disable WPS by default – check your router admin panel if the button doesn’t respond

2. Enter the WPS PIN
   » Touchscreen Models: Go to Settings > Wireless > Enter WPS PIN
   » Non-Touchscreen: Press (i) or Wireless button + enter PIN via numbered keys
   » Via HP Smart App: Select “Connect via WPS PIN” in network settings

3. Complete the Handshake
   » Wait 1-2 minutes for the connection to establish
   » Look for solid wireless lights on both router and printer
   » Print a test page to confirm success

Special Case: HP LaserJet & Older Models

For printers like HP LaserJet that use default PINs:

• Common defaults: 1234, 0000, or the last 4 digits of the serial number
• Always change these afterward in printer security settings

Advanced Tips & Security Notes for WPS PINs

Now that you’re connected, let’s talk about keeping your wireless printing both smooth and secure. Through years of servicing HP printers in corporate and home environments, I’ve gathered some critical insights about WPS that most users never hear about.

1. Changing Default WPS PINs (Essential Security Step)

Many don’t realize: Your HP printer’s WPS PIN can (and should) be changed periodically – especially on office networks. Here’s how I do it for clients:

• For Touchscreen Models:
  Settings > Security > Change WPS PIN
• Via HP Smart App:
  Printer Settings > Advanced > Security > Reset WPS PIN
• For Older Printers:
  You may need to access the embedded web server (type printer’s IP into a browser)

Why this matters: Default PINs like “1234” are shockingly common in HP MFP printers (multi-function models) – a major security risk for businesses.

2. The WPS Security Paradox

While convenient, WPS has known vulnerabilities. Here’s my professional recommendation:

✔ Do use WPS for:

• Initial setup
• Temporary guest network access

✖ Disable WPS after setup for:

• Office environments
• Printers handling sensitive documents
• Networks with multiple users

“There are two types of companies: those that have been hacked, and those that don’t know they’ve been hacked.” – Former FBI Director Robert Mueller
This applies perfectly to printer security – I’ve seen countless breaches originate from overlooked WPS settings.

3. Special Considerations for Screenless Printers

For models without displays (HP LaserJet, older DeskJets), use these secure alternatives:

1. Print Network Reports Regularly
   Wireless Button + Cancel (shows current WPS status)
2. Use WPS Push Button Method
   (More secure than PIN method)
3. Enable HP Secure Printing
   (Requires authentication before printing)

Wrapping Up: Your Complete WPS PIN Solution

After walking through all these methods and troubleshooting tips, you’re now equipped to handle any WPS PIN challenge your HP printer throws at you. Let’s recap the key takeaways:

Quick Recap

✔ Where to Find It:

• Printer touchscreen (Settings > Wireless)
• Printed network configuration sheet
• HP Smart App (for digital access)

✔ Special Cases:

• HP Neverstop printers: Check under “Network Settings” in the toner replenishment menu
• Manual references: Your model’s manual (often downloadable from HP’s site) contains PIN specifics

✔ When Things Go Wrong:

• Reset network settings for persistent HP printer WPS PIN errors
• Update firmware if the PIN won’t generate

One Last Pro Tip

Bookmark this guide! Even after hundreds of installations, I still reference my own notes when encountering rare models or unique errors. Technology changes, but these core principles remain constant.

Need More Help?

If you’re still facing issues (especially with older models or enterprise setups), drop a comment below with:

1. Your exact printer model
2. The specific error message
3. What you’ve tried so far

I check these regularly and will help troubleshoot personally—just like I do for my corporate clients.

Final Thought:
Remember what we learned earlier—“Technology is best when it brings people together.” Now that your printer’s connected, go print something wonderful!

WPS PIN FAQ – Your Quick Troubleshooting Guide

Q1: Where is the WPS PIN on an HP Envy printer?
For HP Envy models, you’ll typically find it either:

• On the touchscreen: Settings > Wireless > WPS PIN
• Printed via: Wireless button + Cancel (network report)
• In the HP Smart App under Printer Network Settings

Q2: Why won’t my HP printer accept the WPS PIN?
From my repair logs, top causes are:

• Router WPS disabled (check admin settings)
• PIN expired (must be entered within 2 minutes)
• Firewall blocking connection (temporarily disable to test)

Try resetting network settings if the issue persists.

Q3: How do I print the WPS PIN from my HP printer?

For non-touchscreen models (like many HP PageWide printers):

1. Press and hold Wireless + Cancel for 3 seconds
2. Look for “WPS PIN” on the printed network report

Q4: The WPS PIN isn’t showing on my HP printer—what now?
First steps I recommend:

1. Reboot printer and router
2. Check for firmware updates
3. Try generating via HP Smart App
   If still missing, your model may require WPS push-button method instead.

Q5: Is “1234” the default WPS PIN for HP printers?
Only on some older:

• LaserJet models
• OfficeJet Pro 8000 series
  Always check your manual first—never assume defaults!

Didn’t see your question?
Drop it in the comments—I monitor these daily and will add helpful answers to this living FAQ!