You’re ready to set up your HP printer wirelessly, but the WPS PIN isn’t working. You enter the 8-digit code, and nothing happens. No connection, no confirmation, just frustration. Many users face this issue when trying to link their HP printer via Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS). The good news? Most WPS PIN problems can be resolved quickly with the right steps.
This guide shows you exactly why your HP printer PIN is not working, how to fix it, and what to do when WPS fails. You’ll learn how to generate a valid PIN, avoid common setup mistakes, and use the HP Smart app as a reliable alternative. Whether you’re setting up a new printer or reconnecting after a network change, these troubleshooting steps will get your HP printer online.
Where to Find the WPS PIN
Before troubleshooting, confirm you’re using the correct WPS PIN from the start.
Check the Printer Display
On most HP printers, the WPS PIN lives in the wireless settings menu:
– Press the Wireless or Settings button on the control panel.
– Navigate to Network Setup or Wireless Settings.
– Select WPS PIN and choose Display WPS PIN.
– An 8-digit number appears on screen.
🔍 Visual cue: The PIN is only valid for 90 seconds. Have your device ready before generating it.
Print a Network Configuration Page
If the screen is unresponsive, print the details:
1. Hold the Wireless and Cancel buttons for 3 seconds.
2. The printer outputs a configuration page.
3. Find the WPS PIN section, usually near the bottom.
⚠️ Warning: Do not use the MAC address or serial number as the PIN. The WPS PIN is always 8 digits and changes each time it’s generated.
Why the HP Printer PIN Isn’t Working
Several common issues cause the HP printer PIN to fail during setup.
PIN Expired After 90 Seconds
The WPS PIN is temporary. If you wait too long to enter it:
– The code becomes invalid.
– The setup process times out before the connection completes.
✅ Fix: Generate a new PIN right before entering it on your device.
Entered PIN on Wrong Device or Network
Mistakenly entering the PIN:
– On a different Wi-Fi network.
– Into the router’s admin panel instead of your device.
– On a device not initiating the connection.
✅ Fix: Start setup from your phone, tablet, or computer. Select the printer’s temporary network (such as HP-ENVY-6400) and enter the PIN only when prompted.
Interference from Firewalls or Security Software
Antivirus programs, firewalls, or parental controls may block the WPS handshake between devices.
✅ Fix: Temporarily disable firewall or security apps during setup. Re-enable them after the printer connects successfully.
Fix WPS PIN Connection Failures
Follow these steps to resolve PIN entry issues and complete your wireless setup.
Restart Printer and Router
A simple reboot clears temporary glitches that block WPS connections.
- Turn off the printer and unplug it for 30 seconds.
- Power off your router and modem.
- Plug in the router, wait 1 minute, then restart the printer.
- Try generating a new WPS PIN.
️ Time estimate: 3–5 minutes. This often resolves connection timeouts.
Re-Generate the WPS PIN
Expired or used PINs won’t work, so always start fresh.
- On the printer control panel, go to Settings > Network > Wireless Setup Wizard > WPS PIN.
- Select Generate New PIN.
- Enter it on your device within 60 seconds.
✅ Pro tip: Do not navigate away from the PIN screen until setup completes.
Ensure 2.4 GHz Network Compatibility
WPS only works on 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, not 5 GHz networks.
If your router broadcasts a combined network, confirm:
– The printer connects to the 2.4 GHz band.
– 5 GHz is temporarily disabled if needed.
📶 Check: Look at your device’s Wi-Fi list. If you see HomeNetwork_2G and HomeNetwork_5G, connect to the 2G version.
Bypass WPS: Use HP Smart App Instead
If the PIN keeps failing, skip WPS entirely and use the HP Smart app.
Download HP Smart App
The app avoids manual PIN entry and walks you through setup:
1. On your smartphone or tablet, open the App Store or Google Play.
2. Search for HP Smart and install it.
3. Open the app and tap Add Printer.
Connect Printer via App
- Make sure the printer is on and near the router.
- The app detects your printer in setup mode automatically.
- Follow prompts to enter your Wi-Fi name and password directly.
- The app handles authentication, so no PIN is needed.
✅ Advantage: HP Smart supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks and works even when WPS is disabled.
Set Up on a Computer
For desktop setup, use the HP setup portal:
1. Visit 123.hp.com in your browser.
2. Download and run the HP Setup Assistant.
3. Follow the guided steps to connect your printer.
Advanced Fixes for Persistent PIN Errors
When basic steps fail, try these deeper solutions for stubborn WPS errors.
Reset Network Settings on Printer
Clearing corrupted network data often restores WPS function:
1. On the control panel, go to Settings > Network > Restore Network Settings.
2. Confirm the reset when prompted.
3. Re-run the wireless setup wizard afterward.
🔄 Result: The printer forgets saved networks, giving you a clean slate.
Update Printer Firmware
Outdated firmware can cause WPS bugs and connection failures:
1. Connect the printer via USB or use a temporary network.
2. Open HP Smart or HP Printer Assistant on your computer.
3. Check for updates under Printer Maintenance or Tools.
4. Install any available firmware updates.
✅ Benefit: Firmware updates patch known connectivity issues in older printer models.
Disable WPS on Router (If Needed)
Some routers have WPS turned off by default for security.
Check Router Settings:
- Open a browser and enter your router’s IP address (commonly 192.168.1.1).
- Log in with admin credentials.
- Navigate to Wireless > WPS or Security.
- Ensure WPS is enabled, including PIN and Push Button modes.
⚠️ Note: If WPS is disabled, the printer cannot use PIN mode. Enable it temporarily during setup.
Common Mistakes That Break WPS Setup
Avoid these frequent errors that make the PIN seem “not working.”
Using the Same PIN Twice
WPS PINs are one-time use only. Reusing an old code fails every time.
✅ Fix: Always generate a fresh PIN during each setup attempt.
Typing Errors During Entry
An 8-digit code is easy to mistype. Common confusions include:
– 0 vs. 8
– 1 vs. 7
– Missing a digit
✅ Fix: Double-check each number. Use copy-paste if the interface allows it.
Printer Too Far from Router
Weak signals disrupt the WPS handshake between devices.
✅ Fix: Place the printer within 6 feet of the router during setup. You can move it back to its usual spot afterward.
When All Else Fails: Manual Wi-Fi Setup
Skip WPS entirely and connect directly using your network credentials.
Use Printer Control Panel
- Go to Settings > Network > Wireless Setup Wizard.
- The printer scans for available networks.
- Select your Wi-Fi name (SSID) from the list.
- Enter your Wi-Fi password using the on-screen keyboard.
- Tap OK to confirm and connect.
Time: 2–3 minutes. This is the most reliable method when WPS fails.
Connect via USB for Initial Setup
A USB cable can complete wireless setup even when WPS is broken:
1. Connect the printer to your computer with a USB cable.
2. Run HP Setup Assistant.
3. Choose Wireless connection and enter Wi-Fi details.
4. The printer saves the network and disconnects from USB.
✅ Works even if WPS is broken, making it ideal for stubborn cases.
Prevent Future PIN Issues
Keep your printer connected and avoid recurring setup problems.
Keep Firmware Updated
Enable automatic updates in HP Smart or check monthly for new releases.
Label Your Network Correctly
Use a simple SSID without special characters:
– ❌ Home@Network!2.4G
– ✅ HomeNetwork2G
Special characters confuse printer keyboards and can cause entry errors.
Avoid Frequent Network Changes
Each router reset or password change forces re-setup. Keep your network settings stable to minimize disruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions About HP Printer PIN Not Working
Why Is My HP Printer WPS PIN Not Working?
The WPS PIN may have expired after 90 seconds, been entered incorrectly, or used on the wrong device. Generate a fresh PIN and enter it immediately on the device initiating the connection.
Where Do I Find the WPS PIN on My HP Printer?
Find it on the printer’s control panel under Wireless Settings or Network Setup. Select WPS PIN and choose to display it. The PIN also appears on the network configuration page if your printer prints one.
How Long Does the WPS PIN Stay Valid?
The WPS PIN is valid for 90 seconds. If you don’t enter it in time, generate a new one from the printer’s control panel.
Can I Set Up My HP Printer Without the WPS PIN?
Yes. Use the HP Smart app or visit 123.hp.com to set up your printer without entering a WPS PIN. Manual Wi-Fi setup through the control panel also works.
Does WPS Work on 5 GHz Networks?
No. WPS only works on 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks. If your router broadcasts both bands, connect your printer to the 2.4 GHz network.
What Should I Do If WPS Keeps Failing?
Switch to the HP Smart app or manual Wi-Fi setup. You can also reset the printer’s network settings, update firmware, or check that WPS is enabled in your router’s settings.
Key Takeaways for Fixing HP Printer PIN Issues
If your HP printer PIN is not working, start by generating a new WPS PIN and entering it within 90 seconds on the correct device. Make sure your printer connects to a 2.4 GHz network, since WPS does not support 5 GHz. Restart your printer and router to clear temporary glitches that block the connection.
When WPS continues to fail, skip it entirely. The HP Smart app or manual Wi-Fi setup through the control panel offers faster, more reliable results. Keep your firmware updated and use a simple network name to prevent future setup problems.
For ongoing support, visit 123.hp.com or use the troubleshooting tools built into the HP Smart app. Your printer is designed to work seamlessly once the initial setup hurdle is cleared.
