What To Know
- This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of how to factory reset HP LaserJet Pro M404n, ensuring you get your printer back to its original settings and hopefully resolve any issues you’re encountering.
- If you’re planning to sell or give away your printer, a factory reset ensures the new owner starts with a clean slate and doesn’t inherit any of your previous settings.
- If the previous method doesn’t work for you, or you prefer a more detailed approach, you can use the Embedded Web Server (EWS) to perform a factory reset.
Are you experiencing issues with your HP LaserJet Pro M404n printer? Maybe it’s printing errors, network connectivity problems, or even just a general slowness that’s driving you crazy. Whatever the reason, a factory reset might be the solution you need. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of how to factory reset HP LaserJet Pro M404n, ensuring you get your printer back to its original settings and hopefully resolve any issues you’re encountering.
Understanding the Importance of a Factory Reset
Before we dive into the steps, let’s understand why a factory reset is sometimes necessary. Think of it as a fresh start for your printer. Here’s why you might consider a factory reset:
- Troubleshooting Issues: A factory reset can help resolve a wide range of printer problems, including connectivity errors, paper jams, printing errors, and more. By returning the printer to its default settings, you can eliminate any configurations or settings that might be causing the issue.
- Resolving Software Conflicts: If you’ve installed new software or drivers that are causing conflicts with your printer, a factory reset can help resolve these issues.
- Preparing for Sale or Transfer: If you’re planning to sell or give away your printer, a factory reset ensures the new owner starts with a clean slate and doesn’t inherit any of your previous settings.
- Forgotten Password: If you’ve forgotten your printer’s password, a factory reset will allow you to regain access to the printer’s settings.
Method 1: Factory Reset Using the Printer Control Panel
This is the most common and straightforward method for performing a factory reset on your HP LaserJet Pro M404n. Here’s how to do it:
1. Power On: Ensure your HP LaserJet Pro M404n printer is powered on and ready.
2. Access the Menu: Locate the “Menu” button on your printer’s control panel. Press it to access the printer’s settings.
3. Navigate to “Settings”: Use the navigation buttons to scroll through the menu options until you find “Settings” or a similar option. Select it.
4. Find “Restore Factory Defaults“: Within the “Settings” menu, look for an option labeled “Restore Factory Defaults,” “Reset,” or something similar. Select it.
5. Confirm the Reset: The printer will likely prompt you to confirm the factory reset. Select “Yes” or “Confirm” to proceed.
6. Wait for the Reset: The printer will take a few minutes to complete the reset process. During this time, the printer might display a message indicating that it’s resetting.
7. Power Cycle: Once the reset is complete, power off your printer and unplug it from the power outlet. Wait for a few seconds, then plug it back in and power it back on.
Method 2: Factory Reset Using the Embedded Web Server (EWS)
If the previous method doesn’t work for you, or you prefer a more detailed approach, you can use the Embedded Web Server (EWS) to perform a factory reset. Here’s how:
1. Find Your Printer’s IP Address: To access the EWS, you need to know your printer’s IP address. You can usually find this on the printer’s control panel display or by printing a network configuration report.
2. Open a Web Browser: On your computer, open a web browser (like Chrome, Firefox, or Edge).
3. Enter the IP Address: In the address bar of the web browser, type in your printer’s IP address. Press Enter.
4. Access the EWS: You should be redirected to your printer’s Embedded Web Server.
5. Navigate to “Settings”: Look for a section labeled “Settings,” “Administration,” or something similar. Click on it.
6. Locate “Factory Reset”: Within the settings section, you should find an option labeled “Factory Reset,” “Restore Defaults,” or something similar. Click on it.
7. Confirm the Reset: The EWS will likely prompt you to confirm the factory reset. Click “Yes” or “Confirm” to proceed.
8. Wait for the Reset: The printer will take a few minutes to complete the reset process. You might see a message on the EWS indicating that it’s resetting.
9. Power Cycle: Once the reset is complete, power off your printer and unplug it from the power outlet. Wait for a few seconds, then plug it back in and power it back on.
Method 3: Factory Reset Using HP Print and Scan Doctor
HP Print and Scan Doctor is a free utility that can help diagnose and fix various printer problems, including performing a factory reset. Here’s how to use it:
1. Download HP Print and Scan Doctor: Visit the HP website and download the HP Print and Scan Doctor utility for your operating system.
2. Run the Utility: Once downloaded, run the HP Print and Scan Doctor utility.
3. Select Your Printer: Choose your HP LaserJet Pro M404n printer from the list of connected devices.
4. Troubleshoot: The utility will attempt to diagnose any issues with your printer.
5. Factory Reset Option: If a factory reset is recommended, the HP Print and Scan Doctor utility will provide an option to perform it.
6. Follow Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the factory reset process.
Important Notes and Considerations
- Backup Your Settings: Before performing a factory reset, consider backing up any important printer settings or configurations you might want to restore later.
- Network Settings: After a factory reset, you’ll likely need to reconnect your printer to your network. Refer to your printer’s manual or the HP website for detailed instructions.
- Software and Drivers: You might need to reinstall your printer’s software and drivers after a factory reset. You can download the latest versions from the HP website.
- Paper and Toner: Make sure you have paper loaded in the paper tray and toner installed before you use your printer after a factory reset.
The Final Reset: Rebooting Your Printer’s Performance
By following these steps, you’ve successfully performed a factory reset on your HP LaserJet Pro M404n. This process helps clear any accumulated issues and gives your printer a fresh start. Now, you can enjoy a printer that runs smoothly and reliably.
Answers to Your Questions
Q1: Will a factory reset erase my printer’s memory?
A1: Yes, a factory reset will erase all settings, configurations, and saved information from your printer’s memory. This includes network settings, custom paper sizes, and any saved documents.
Q2: Will a factory reset void my printer’s warranty?
A2: No, a factory reset will not void your printer’s warranty. It’s a standard troubleshooting step that is often recommended by HP support.
Q3: What if my printer still has problems after a factory reset?
A3: If you’re still experiencing issues after a factory reset, there might be a more serious hardware problem. Contact HP support or a qualified technician for further assistance.
Q4: Can I factory reset my printer remotely?
A4: Unfortunately, you cannot directly factory reset your HP LaserJet Pro M404n remotely. You’ll need to physically access the printer’s control panel or use the Embedded Web Server (EWS) if you’re connected to the same network.
Q5: How often should I factory reset my printer?
A5: There’s no set schedule for factory resets. You should only perform a factory reset when necessary, such as when troubleshooting issues or preparing the printer for sale or transfer.
