Re: Printer won't work, can't reset or do anything because of control panel lock

Hi @MadreQP 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

It sounds like your printer's control panel is locked, which can happen if the printer settings are accidentally changed or if a password was set without you realizing. Here are a few troubleshooting steps to unlock the control panel and get your printer working again:

1. Reset the Printer to Default Settings

Some printers have an option to reset to the factory default settings, which will remove any locks or passwords.

• HP Printers (general instructions):
  1. Turn off the printer.
  2. Press and hold the # and 6 buttons on the printer's control panel.
  3. While holding those buttons, turn the printer back on.
  4. Continue holding the buttons until the control panel screen resets or displays a message confirming the reset.
  5. This will reset the printer to factory settings, and the control panel lock should be removed.

2. Try Default Passwords

If there is a password set but you don’t know it, try common default passwords that printers sometimes use:

• 1234
• 0000
• admin
• 000000 (six zeros)
• If these work, make sure to change the password to something you can remember.

3. Check the Printer’s Manual

If the above reset doesn't work, consult your printer's user manual. Most HP printers have specific steps for unlocking the control panel. Look for a section about resetting or unlocking the control panel or changing the password.

4. Try Resetting the Printer via the HP Smart App (If Installed)

If you have the HP Smart app installed on your computer or phone, you can try using it to reset or manage the printer settings remotely:

1. Open the HP Smart app.
2. Select your printer.
3. Look for any option to reset settings or manage the control panel lock.

I hope this helps.

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