Factory Reset Your HP LaserJet Pro M201dw: Essential Tips & Tricks

Are you experiencing issues with your HP LaserJet Pro M201dw printer? Perhaps it’s printing errors, network connectivity problems, or even just a stubborn printer that refuses to cooperate. A factory reset might be the solution you need. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps on how to factory reset your HP LaserJet Pro M201dw, effectively restoring it to its original factory settings.

Understanding Factory Reset

A factory reset on your HP LaserJet Pro M201dw printer essentially erases all user-defined settings, configurations, and stored data. This includes:

• Network settings: Wi-Fi passwords, network configurations, and printer names.
• Print settings: Paper sizes, print quality, and other customized settings.
• Saved documents: Any documents stored in the printer’s memory will be deleted.
• Installed cartridges: The printer will recognize the cartridges as new after a factory reset.

When to Consider a Factory Reset

While a factory reset can solve many printer problems, it’s not a solution for every issue. Consider a factory reset when:

• Your printer is experiencing frequent errors or malfunctions.
• You’re unable to connect to your printer’s network.
• You’re experiencing problems with print quality.
• You’re preparing to sell or donate your printer.
• You’re trying to troubleshoot a specific problem.

Method 1: Factory Reset Using the Control Panel

This method is the most straightforward way to factory reset your HP LaserJet Pro M201dw. Follow these steps:
1. Power on your printer: Ensure the printer is powered on and ready.
2. Access the control panel: Locate the control panel on your printer, which usually features a small LCD screen and buttons.
3. Navigate to the settings menu: Use the control panel buttons to navigate to the printer’s settings menu. This might be labeled “Setup,” “Settings,” or “Menu.”
4. Find the “Factory Reset” option: Scroll through the settings menu until you find the “Factory Reset” or “Reset to Defaults” option.
5. Confirm the factory reset: You’ll likely be asked to confirm the factory reset. Proceed with caution, as this will erase all your settings.
6. Wait for the reset to complete: The printer will take a few minutes to complete the factory reset. Do not interrupt the process.

Method 2: Factory Reset Using the HP Printer Assistant Software

If you have the HP Printer Assistant software installed on your computer, you can also factory reset your printer through the software. Here’s how:
1. Open the HP Printer Assistant software: Locate and open the HP Printer Assistant software on your computer.
2. Select your printer: Choose your HP LaserJet Pro M201dw from the list of available printers.
3. Navigate to the settings or troubleshooting section: The software’s interface may vary, but you should find a settings or troubleshooting section.
4. Find the “Factory Reset” option: Look for the “Factory Reset” or “Reset to Defaults” option within the settings or troubleshooting section.
5. Confirm the factory reset: The software will likely ask you to confirm the factory reset. Proceed with caution, as this will erase all your settings.
6. Wait for the reset to complete: The software will guide you through the process, and the printer will take a few minutes to complete the factory reset.

Method 3: Factory Reset Using the Embedded Web Server (EWS)

The Embedded Web Server (EWS) provides a web-based interface to manage your printer’s settings. Here’s how to factory reset using the EWS:
1. Find your printer’s IP address: You can find the IP address on the printer’s control panel display or on the network configuration page printed from the printer.
2. Open a web browser: On your computer, open a web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, etc.).
3. Enter the IP address: In the address bar of your web browser, type the IP address of your HP LaserJet Pro M201dw printer and press Enter.
4. Login to the EWS: You may need to enter the printer’s default username and password, which are usually “admin” and “admin” or “1111.”
5. Navigate to the settings or troubleshooting section: The EWS interface may vary, but you should find a settings or troubleshooting section.
6. Find the “Factory Reset” option: Look for the “Factory Reset” or “Reset to Defaults” option within the settings or troubleshooting section.
7. Confirm the factory reset: The EWS will likely ask you to confirm the factory reset. Proceed with caution, as this will erase all your settings.
8. Wait for the reset to complete: The printer will take a few minutes to complete the factory reset.

Re-configuring Your Printer After a Factory Reset

After the factory reset is complete, you’ll need to reconfigure your HP LaserJet Pro M201dw printer. This includes:

• Connecting to your network: Set up the Wi-Fi connection or connect to your network via Ethernet.
• Installing the printer drivers: Reinstall the HP printer drivers on your computer.
• Setting up your preferred print settings: Customize your paper size, print quality, and other settings.
• Installing cartridges: If you had previously installed cartridges, you’ll need to reinstall them.

Final Thoughts: Restoring Your HP LaserJet Pro M201dw

A factory reset can be a powerful tool for restoring your HP LaserJet Pro M201dw printer to its original state. While it might seem daunting, the process is relatively straightforward. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively reset your printer and resolve any persistent issues. Remember to reconfigure your printer after the reset, and your printer will be back in working order.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: What happens to my printer’s warranty after a factory reset?
A: A factory reset does not affect your printer’s warranty. It simply restores the printer to its original settings.
Q: Can I factory reset my HP LaserJet Pro M201dw without a computer?
A: Yes, you can factory reset your printer using the control panel, as explained in Method 1. You do not need a computer for this method.
Q: Will a factory reset fix any hardware problems with my printer?
A: A factory reset will not fix any hardware problems with your printer. If your printer is experiencing hardware issues, you may need to contact HP support or a qualified technician for repair.
Q: How often can I factory reset my HP LaserJet Pro M201dw?
A: You can factory reset your printer as often as needed. However, it’s generally recommended to avoid frequent factory resets, as it can be time-consuming to reconfigure your printer each time.
Q: Will a factory reset erase the printer’s firmware?
A: No, a factory reset will not erase the printer’s firmware. Firmware is the software embedded in the printer’s hardware, and it is not affected by a factory reset.