WPS PIN Printer Setup: Where to Find the PIN

Updated 7 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

If you’re setting up a wireless printer and the router asks for a WPS PIN, you’ll find it on a sticker on the printer itself, usually on the back, bottom, or inside the toner/ink access door. The PIN is an 8-digit number, often labeled “WPS PIN” or “Wireless PIN,” and it’s unique to your printer model.

What Is WPS and Why Does the Printer Use It?

WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) is a network security standard that simplifies connecting devices to a wireless network. Instead of typing a long Wi-Fi password, WPS lets devices authenticate with a PIN or a button press. Many printers support WPS PIN mode, where the printer generates a temporary 8-digit PIN that you enter into your router’s configuration page. This is different from the WPS button method, which requires pressing a physical button on both the router and the printer.

Where to Look for the WPS PIN

Because the PIN is generated by the printer, it’s not printed on a permanent label—it changes each time you start a WPS session. However, the printer’s manual or a sticker on the device may show a default PIN that works for the first connection. Here’s where to check:

On the printer’s display: Many modern printers show the 8-digit PIN on the LCD screen when you select “Wi-Fi Setup” or “Wireless Setup” in the menu.
On the printer’s control panel: Look for a “Wireless” or “Network” button, then choose “WPS PIN” or “PIN Code.”
On the printer’s information sheet: Some models print a network configuration page when you press and hold the “Cancel” or “Resume” button for a few seconds. This page lists the current WPS PIN.
On the printer’s web interface: If the printer is already connected to your network, you can access its built-in web page by entering its IP address in a browser. The WPS PIN is usually under “Network” or “Wireless” settings.

How to Use the WPS PIN to Connect Your Printer

Once you have the PIN, the setup process is straightforward:

On the printer, navigate to the wireless setup menu and select “WPS PIN” or “PIN Code.” The printer will display an 8-digit number.
On your computer or router, open the Wi-Fi settings or router’s web interface. Look for a “WPS” or “Wi-Fi Protected Setup” section.
Choose “Enter PIN” and type the 8-digit number from the printer.
Wait for the printer to connect. The router and printer will exchange security keys automatically.
Once connected, the printer’s display will show a confirmation, and you can install the printer driver on your computer.

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

If the WPS PIN doesn’t work, try these troubleshooting steps:

Check the PIN length: It must be exactly 8 digits. If you see a 4-digit number, that’s the printer’s default PIN, but WPS PIN mode requires 8 digits.
Restart the WPS session: The PIN expires after a few minutes. Go back to the printer’s wireless menu and generate a new PIN.
Make sure the router supports WPS: Some older routers or those with WPS disabled won’t accept a PIN. You may need to use the WPS button method or connect manually with the Wi-Fi password.
Move the printer closer to the router: WPS requires a strong signal. If the printer is too far, the connection may fail.
Update the printer’s firmware: Outdated firmware can cause WPS errors. Check the manufacturer’s website for updates.

Alternatives to WPS PIN Setup

If you can’t find the PIN or WPS isn’t working, you have other options:

WPS Button: Press the WPS button on your router, then press the WPS button on the printer (or select “WPS Push” on the printer’s display). This is often easier than entering a PIN.
Wi-Fi Password: Most printers let you manually enter your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password. Go to the printer’s wireless setup menu, choose “Manually Connect,” and type the password using the printer’s keypad or touchscreen.
USB Connection: For initial setup, you can connect the printer to your computer with a USB cable, run the setup software, and then switch to wireless. This is the most reliable method if WPS is problematic.
Wi-Fi Direct: Some printers support Wi-Fi Direct, which creates a direct connection between the printer and your computer or phone without a router. Check your printer’s manual for this feature.

Security Considerations with WPS

WPS has known security vulnerabilities. The PIN method can be brute-forced because the last digit is a checksum, and the first four digits are checked separately. This means an attacker could guess the PIN in about 11,000 attempts. For this reason, many security experts recommend disabling WPS on your router after you’ve connected your printer. If your router allows you to turn off WPS, do so after the setup is complete. The printer will stay connected, but new devices won’t be able to use WPS to join your network.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the WPS PIN on an HP printer?

On HP printers, the WPS PIN is usually displayed on the printer’s control panel when you select “Wireless” or “Network Setup” and then choose “Wi-Fi Protected Setup.” It’s an 8-digit code that appears on the screen. Some HP models also print it on a network configuration page (press and hold the “Cancel” or “Resume” button for a few seconds).

Why does my printer show a 4-digit PIN instead of 8 digits?

A 4-digit PIN is typically the printer’s default PIN for connecting to a computer via USB, not for WPS. For WPS, the printer generates an 8-digit PIN that changes each time you initiate the setup. Look for the option that says “WPS PIN” or “PIN Code” in the wireless menu.

Can I use the WPS PIN for a printer that’s already connected?

No, the WPS PIN is only used during the initial connection. Once the printer is on your network, you don’t need the PIN. If you need to reconnect, you can generate a new PIN by starting the WPS setup again.

What if my router doesn’t have a WPS option?

If your router doesn’t support WPS, you’ll need to connect the printer manually. Use the printer’s wireless setup menu to select your network and enter the Wi-Fi password. Alternatively, use a USB cable for the initial setup and then switch to wireless.

Is WPS PIN safe to use?

WPS PIN has security weaknesses, as mentioned above. It’s safer to use the WPS button method or manual Wi-Fi password entry. If you must use WPS PIN, consider disabling WPS on your router after the printer is connected to reduce the risk of unauthorized access.

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.