🖨️ How to Reset HP Printer to Factory Settings 

Over time, HP printers can run into problems like network issues, unresponsive settings, or persistent error messages. If regular troubleshooting doesn't work, the best solution is to reset HP printer to factory settings. This process erases all custom settings, including Wi-Fi, print preferences, and saved data, returning the printer to its original default configuration. In this article, you’ll learn how to do a factory reset on your HP printer—whether it’s a touchscreen model or a non-touchscreen device.

🔧 How to Factory Reset HP Printer: Step-by-Step

1. 📱 For HP Printers With a Touchscreen Display

Steps:

1. On the printer home screen, tap the Settings or Setup icon (gear symbol).

2. Navigate to:
   Printer Maintenance > Restore > Restore Factory Defaults

3. Confirm the reset when prompted.

✅ The printer will restart and return to its default factory state.

2. 🕹️ For HP Printers Without a Touchscreen (Buttons Only)

Steps:

1. Turn ON the printer if it's off.

2. Press and hold the Cancel and Wireless buttons together for 5–10 seconds, or until the wireless light starts blinking.

3. Release the buttons. The printer will reboot and reset itself.
   
   

✅ On some models, this process may take a minute.

3. 🌐 Resetting Network Settings Only (Wi-Fi Reset)

Steps:

• Go to Settings > Network Setup > Restore Network Settings
  
  

• Or, for button-only printers, press and hold Wireless + Cancel for 5 seconds.
  
  

✅ This clears only the wireless configuration—ideal if you're switching routers.

🧠 Important Tips Before Resetting

Before you perform a factory reset, keep these key points in mind:

1. Backup Settings (if needed): If your printer is used in an office with specific scan-to-email or fax settings, write them down.
   
   

2. Reconnect After Reset: You will need to reconnect the printer to Wi-Fi and reinstall it on your PC or mobile device after the reset.
   
   

3. Update Software: After the reset, check HP’s official website for the latest firmware or driver updates.
   
   

4. Reset Doesn’t Fix Hardware Issues: A factory reset won’t fix problems like paper jams, empty cartridges, or hardware malfunctions.
   
   

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Will resetting delete my scanned files or printed documents?
👉 No. Scanned files stored on your computer or cloud accounts are not affected. Only settings stored inside the printer will be deleted.

Q2: Can I reset the printer from my computer?
👉 Yes. If your HP printer is connected via USB or network, you can use the HP Smart App or HP Printer Assistant to access settings and perform a reset.

Q3: How long does a factory reset take?
👉 Usually between 1–3 minutes. The printer will automatically restart after the reset is complete.

Q4: Is it safe to reset my HP printer frequently?
👉 Factory resets should be used only when necessary, as they erase all preferences. Frequent soft resets or reboots are safe for regular use.

Q5: After reset, my printer is not detected by the computer. What should I do?
👉 Reinstall the printer driver from https://support.hp.com or use the HP Smart App to reconfigure your printer connection.

✅ Conclusion

Resetting your HP printer to factory settings is a powerful way to clear up long-standing errors, connectivity issues, or prepare the device for a fresh start. Whether your printer has a touchscreen, physical buttons, or you're dealing only with a network problem, the reset process is simple and effective. Make sure to back up any important settings if needed, and remember to reconnect the printer after the reset is complete.