Revolutionize Your Printing Experience: How to Factory Reset HP LaserJet Pro M201dw

Are you experiencing issues with your HP LaserJet Pro M201dw printer? Is it printing blank pages, displaying error messages, or just behaving erratically? A factory reset might be the solution you need. This process essentially erases all settings and configurations, returning your printer to its original state. This can be helpful in resolving various printer problems and can even be necessary if you’re planning to sell or donate your printer.
This guide will walk you through the process of how to factory reset your HP LaserJet Pro M201dw printer, step by step.

Understanding the Importance of a Factory Reset

Before we dive into the steps, let’s understand why a factory reset might be necessary:

• Troubleshooting Issues: If your printer is exhibiting strange behavior, a factory reset can help eliminate software glitches, incorrect settings, or network configuration problems.
• Resolving Print Quality Issues: If you’re experiencing blurry or faded prints, a factory reset can restore the default print settings, potentially resolving the issue.
• Removing Previous User Settings: A factory reset clears all user-defined settings, including network configurations, custom paper sizes, and saved print jobs. This is helpful if you’re selling or donating your printer.
• Preparing for a Firmware Update: Sometimes, a factory reset is recommended before updating your printer’s firmware. This ensures a clean slate for the new firmware installation.

Method 1: Resetting Through the Control Panel

This is the most common and straightforward method for factory resetting your HP LaserJet Pro M201dw:
1. Power On Your Printer: Ensure your printer is turned on and ready to use.
2. Access the Menu: On your printer’s control panel, navigate to the “Settings” or “Menu” option. You may need to press the “OK” button or a specific menu button to access the settings.
3. Locate the Reset Option: Look for a “Reset” or “Factory Reset” option within the settings menu. Depending on your printer model, this option might be located under “System Settings,” “Network Settings,” or “Utilities.”
4. Confirm the Reset: You will likely be prompted to confirm the reset. Select “Yes” or “Confirm” to proceed.
5. Wait for Completion: The printer will take a few minutes to complete the factory reset process. During this time, it may power off and on again.
6. Reconnect to the Network: Once the reset is complete, your printer may need to be reconnected to your network. Follow the on-screen prompts or refer to your printer’s manual for instructions.

Method 2: Resetting Using the HP Printer Assistant

If you have the HP Printer Assistant software installed on your computer, you can use it to factory reset your printer:
1. Open HP Printer Assistant: Launch the HP Printer Assistant software on your computer.
2. Select Your Printer: Choose your HP LaserJet Pro M201dw from the list of connected devices.
3. Access Printer Settings: Locate the “Printer Settings” or “Device Settings” section within the HP Printer Assistant.
4. Find the Reset Option: Look for a “Reset” or “Factory Reset” option within the settings menu.
5. Confirm the Reset: You will likely be prompted to confirm the reset. Select “Yes” or “Confirm” to proceed.
6. Wait for Completion: The printer will take a few minutes to complete the factory reset process. During this time, it may power off and on again.
7. Reconnect to the Network: Once the reset is complete, your printer may need to be reconnected to your network. Follow the on-screen prompts or refer to your printer’s manual for instructions.

Method 3: Resetting Through the Embedded Web Server (EWS)

This method involves accessing your printer’s embedded web server, which provides a web-based interface for managing your printer:
1. Find your Printer’s IP Address: You can find your printer’s IP address by printing a network configuration report or by checking your router’s connected devices list.
2. Open a Web Browser: Open a web browser on your computer.
3. Enter the IP Address: In the address bar, type your printer’s IP address and press Enter.
4. Login to the EWS: You may need to enter a username and password. If you haven’t set up any login details, you can usually access the EWS without a password.
5. Locate the Reset Option: Navigate through the EWS to find the “Reset” or “Factory Reset” option. It’s typically located under “Settings,” “Administration,” or “Utilities.”
6. Confirm the Reset: You will likely be prompted to confirm the reset. Select “Yes” or “Confirm” to proceed.
7. Wait for Completion: The printer will take a few minutes to complete the factory reset process. During this time, it may power off and on again.
8. Reconnect to the Network: Once the reset is complete, your printer may need to be reconnected to your network. Follow the on-screen prompts or refer to your printer’s manual for instructions.

Important Considerations

• Back Up Your Data: Before performing a factory reset, it’s always a good idea to back up any important data you might have stored on your printer, such as custom paper sizes or saved print jobs.
• Network Settings: After a factory reset, you’ll likely need to reconfigure your printer’s network settings. Make sure you know your network’s name (SSID) and password.
• Printer Driver: You may need to reinstall the printer driver after a factory reset, especially if you’re using a wired connection or if the driver was corrupted.
• Security Settings: After a factory reset, you might need to reconfigure your printer’s security settings, such as password protection or firewall settings.

What to Do After a Factory Reset

Once the factory reset is complete, you’ll need to set up your printer again. Here are the essential steps:
1. Connect to the Network: Connect your printer to your network, either wirelessly or via an Ethernet cable.
2. Install the Printer Driver: Install the latest printer driver from HP’s website or from the installation disc that came with your printer.
3. Configure Settings: Configure your printer’s settings, including paper size, print quality, and other preferences.
4. Test Printing: Print a test page to ensure everything is working correctly.

Beyond the Reset: Troubleshooting Persistent Issues

If you’ve performed a factory reset and are still experiencing issues with your HP LaserJet Pro M201dw, here are some additional troubleshooting steps:

• Check for Paper Jams: Paper jams can cause various printing problems. Carefully inspect the printer for any jammed paper and clear any obstructions.
• Update the Firmware: Outdated firmware can sometimes cause issues. Check for firmware updates on HP’s website and install any available updates.
• Check the Toner Cartridge: Make sure the toner cartridge is installed correctly and has enough toner. If it’s low, replace it with a new cartridge.
• Clean the Printer: Dust and debris can accumulate inside the printer, affecting print quality. Clean the printer’s rollers, paper path, and other components.
• Contact HP Support: If you’ve tried all of these troubleshooting steps and still can’t resolve the issue, contact HP support for assistance.

Resetting Your HP LaserJet Pro M201dw: A Fresh Start

A factory reset can be a powerful tool for resolving printer issues and restoring your HP LaserJet Pro M201dw to its optimal performance. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily reset your printer and get back to printing without hassle.

Questions You May Have

Q: Will a factory reset delete my printer’s warranty?
A: No, a factory reset will not affect your printer’s warranty. It simply resets the printer’s settings to their default values.
Q: Can I factory reset my printer without a computer?
A: Yes, you can usually factory reset your HP LaserJet Pro M201dw directly from the printer’s control panel using the steps outlined in Method 1.
Q: What if I forget the password for my printer’s EWS?
A: If you forget the password for your printer’s EWS, you may need to contact HP support for assistance in resetting it.
Q: Will a factory reset erase my saved print jobs?
A: Yes, a factory reset will erase all saved print jobs and other user-defined settings.
Q: Is it safe to perform a factory reset on my printer?
A: Yes, performing a factory reset on your printer is generally safe. Just make sure to follow the steps outlined in this guide carefully.