How to reset settings for HP printer?
Resetting your HP printer settings can solve a wide range of issues—from connectivity problems and print errors to slow performance and misconfigured settings. Whether you want to do a soft reset, network reset, or a full factory reset, this guide walks you through the entire process.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to reset settings on an HP printer, including step-by-step instructions, common use cases, and troubleshooting tips.
🔄 Types of HP Printer Resets
Before diving in, it's important to understand the different types of resets available:
Soft Reset – A simple restart of the printer, like turning it off and on.
Network Settings Reset – Restores just the Wi-Fi or Ethernet settings to default.
Factory Reset / Full Reset – Erases all settings, preferences, and personal data, returning the printer to its original state.
Each reset has a purpose, and the method may vary based on your HP printer model (e.g., HP DeskJet, Envy, OfficeJet, LaserJet).
⚙️ 1. Soft Reset (Basic Restart)
A soft reset is the easiest way to fix minor glitches or freezing:
How to Perform a Soft Reset:
Turn off the printer using the power button.
Unplug it from the wall and wait about 60 seconds.
Plug it back in and turn it on.
This doesn’t delete any settings—it simply refreshes the printer’s system.
📡 2. Reset Network Settings (Wi-Fi or Ethernet)
If your printer has trouble connecting to Wi-Fi or you want to link it to a new network, resetting network settings can help.
Steps for HP Printers with Touchscreen:
From the home screen, tap the Wi-Fi icon or Settings gear.
Navigate to Settings > Restore Network Settings or Network > Restore Defaults.
Tap Yes or OK to confirm.
For HP Printers Without a Touchscreen:
Press and hold Wi-Fi and Cancel buttons together (for about 5–10 seconds) until the power light blinks.
Release the buttons. This resets the network settings.
What Happens Next?
The printer disconnects from the current Wi-Fi.
You’ll need to set it up again using the HP Smart app or your computer.
🏭 3. Factory Reset (Restore All Settings to Default)
A full factory reset is useful if:
You're giving away or selling your printer
You want to clear all personal settings and stored data
You’re troubleshooting stubborn errors
Warning: This erases all stored Wi-Fi credentials, custom settings, and user data.
For HP Touchscreen Printers:
Go to the Home screen, tap the Settings or Setup icon.
Navigate to Printer Maintenance or Service > Restore or Reset.
Tap Restore Factory Defaults or Reset All Settings.
Confirm by tapping Yes or OK.
For HP Printers Without a Touchscreen:
Here’s a universal method that works for many models:
Turn off the printer.
Press and hold a specific button combination while turning the printer back on. Common combos include:
Cancel + Wireless
Power + Resume
Power + Cancel
(Exact combo varies by model—check the manual or support site for your printer.)
Hold the buttons until you see lights blink or hear a beep.
Release and allow the printer to reboot.
🖥️ Resetting via HP Smart App (Optional)
If you're using the HP Smart app, you can often initiate resets from your connected device:
Open the HP Smart app
Select your printer
Go to Advanced Settings
Open the Embedded Web Server (EWS)
Click on Settings > Restore Defaults
This is available mostly for HP printers on the same network as your computer or mobile device.
🔍 Example: Resetting HP DeskJet 2700 or 4100 Series
For popular models like the HP DeskJet 2700 or 4100 series:
To Restore Network Defaults:
Hold Wireless and Cancel buttons until the Power light blinks.
To Restore Factory Settings:
Turn off the printer
Press and hold Power + Cancel + Resume together for 10–15 seconds
Release the buttons and wait for the printer to reset
The lights will blink, and the printer may restart several times during this process.
🛠️ Troubleshooting After a Reset
If your printer still doesn't behave properly after a reset, try the following:
1. Reinstall the Printer Driver
Go to https://support.hp.com and download the latest drivers for your model.
2. Use the HP Print and Scan Doctor
HP offers a free diagnostic tool that detects and fixes many problems.
Download it here:
👉 https://support.hp.com/us-en/topic/diagnostics
3. Set Up the Printer Again Using HP Smart
Resetting network or factory settings removes connections. Use the HP Smart app to set it up again:
Download from HP Smart App (available on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android)
Follow the on-screen instructions to reconnect your printer
🧾 When to Reset Your HP Printer
You may want to reset your HP printer when:
You can’t connect to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
You’re getting persistent error messages
The printer is stuck in an offline or paused state
You want to wipe it before giving it to someone else
You’re troubleshooting a failed print job or queue error
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🧠 Final Tips and Considerations
Not all reset steps work for every model. For best results, refer to your user manual or search your printer model at support.hp.com.
Always try a network reset before doing a full factory reset, unless you're changing ownership or clearing everything.
If you’re still having trouble after a reset, it may be a hardware issue—contact HP Support for further help.
📞 Need Help? How to Contact HP Support
If resetting didn’t solve your issue:
Go to https://support.hp.com/contact
Select your printer model
Use live chat or phone support (available for most regions)
By understanding the reset process, you can fix common issues and restore your HP printer’s performance. Whether you need a quick network reset or a full factory reset, these steps will help you start fresh and troubleshoot more effectively.