WPS on your printer stands for Wi-Fi Protected Setup. It’s a handy feature that lets you connect your printer to your wireless network without needing to enter the network name (SSID) and password. This can be especially useful if you can’t remember your Wi-Fi password or don’t want to type it on the printer’s small screen.
What is WPS?
Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) is a technology that simplifies connecting devices to a Wi-Fi network. It uses two main methods: push button configuration and PIN mode.
How Does WPS Work?
There are two ways in which WPS works:
Push Button Configuration
This is the most common method for printers. With WPS, your router and printer both need to have WPS enabled. You simply press a button on your router labeled “WPS” or with a WPS icon, and then press a button on your printer within a specific time frame (usually around two minutes). This initiates a secure connection between your router and printer.
PIN Mode
In PIN mode, your printer generates an eight-digit PIN that you can enter on your computer or the printer’s control panel during the setup process. This PIN acts like a password to connect the printer to your Wi-Fi network.
Types of WPS Connection for Printers
Most printers with WPS support push button configuration. Some may also offer PIN mode for additional flexibility.
Finding Your Printer’s IP Address and WPS PIN
Here are the different ways of finding the IP address and WPS PIN:
Windows
You have to navigate to the “Control Panel”, and select “Network and Sharing Center”. Next, select “Change adapter settings”, right-click on your Wi-Fi connection and select “Properties.” Look for “IPv4 Address” – that’s your printer’s IP address.
Mac
Go to “System Preferences” > “Network.” Select your Wi-Fi connection and click “Advanced.” Under the TCP/IP tab, look for “IPv4 Address.”
Mobile App
Many printer manufacturers offer mobile apps for setup and management. Check your printer’s app to see if it displays the IP address.
Printer Display
Some printers show their IP address on the built-in display. You can consult the printer’s manual for detailed instructions.
What is the WPS PIN Used For?
The WPS PIN is an alternative way to connect your printer using WPS if your router doesn’t have a WPS button or the push button method fails.
How to Find the WPS PIN for Your Printer?
The location of your WPS PIN can vary depending on your printer model. Look for a sticker on your printer or consult your printer’s manual. It might also be displayed on the printer’s settings menu.
How to Connect Your Printer Using WPS?
Here are the two most common ways to connect your printer using WPS:
WPS Push Button Method
Make sure your router and printer have WPS enabled. Press the WPS button on your router and hold it for a few seconds (refer to your router’s manual for exact timing). Wait for two minutes, and then press the WPS button present on your printer. The printer will try to establish a connection to your Wi-Fi network. You should see a confirmation message being displayed on the printer once successful.
HP Printer WPS Setup
HP printers might have slightly different steps for WPS setup. Refer to HP’s support website for your specific model for detailed instructions.
Troubleshooting WPS Connection Issues
Common issues with WPS and here’s how to solve them:
- Connection fails: Double-check if WPS is enabled on both your router and printer. Ensure you press the buttons within the time limit. You have to restart your router and printer and go through the same process again.
- Incorrect PIN: Verify you entered the correct WPS PIN displayed on your printer.
Conclusion
WPS offers a quick and easy way to connect your printer to your Wi-Fi network without needing a password. However, it’s not the most secure method. In case the WPS connection fails, you can also try restarting your router and printer before attempting WPS again.
FAQs about WPS and Printer Connectivity
How to Disable WPS?
For instructions on disabling WPS, you can consult your router’s manual. It’s generally found in the router’s security settings.
Is WPS Safe?
While convenient, WPS has some security concerns. The eight-digit PIN can be vulnerable to brute-force attacks compared to a strong Wi-Fi password. If security is a major concern, consider connecting your printer using the standard Wi-Fi setup method with your network password.
How Many Digits are in a WPS PIN Code?
A WPS PIN code is always eight digits long.