how to reset hp printer

To reset an HP printer, you can perform either a **soft reset** or a **factory (hard) reset** depending on the issue:

– **Soft reset:** Turn off the printer, unplug it from power, wait about 30 to 60 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on. This helps clear minor jams or temporary errors[1][2][4].

– **Factory (hard) reset:** This restores the printer to its original factory settings and may erase customized settings like Wi-Fi configurations. You can do this:

1. **Via the printer control panel:** Navigate to Settings or Setup > General or Printer Maintenance > Restore > Restore Factory Defaults, then confirm[1][3].

2. **Via the Embedded Web Server (EWS):** Access your printer’s IP address in a web browser, log in as admin, go to the General tab, and choose “Restore Factory Settings” or “Reset Firmware”[1][2].

3. **Via the HP Smart app:** Open the app, go to Advanced or Printer Settings, select Factory Reset or Restore Defaults, and confirm the action[1][3].

– **Hard reset for locked printers:** Turn off and unplug the printer, then hold down the Wi-Fi button and Cancel/Back button simultaneously while plugging back in and powering on. Release the buttons when the printer restarts, clearing passwords and settings[3].

Soft resets are recommended first as a quick fix. Factory resets should be used when problems persist or prior to transferring ownership[1][2][3][4]. After a factory reset, you will need to set up your printer again, including network settings[3][4].

For specific models like the HP DeskJet 2842e/2855e, a Wi-Fi reset can be done by holding the Wi-Fi and Cancel (X) buttons simultaneously until the power light blinks, placing the printer in pairing mode for reconnection[5].