Your Guide to Laptop Confidence.

How to Factory Reset HP LaserJet Pro M404N: Save Time and Effort Today!

Summary

  • This method is the most common and straightforward way to perform a factory reset on your HP LaserJet Pro M404n.
  • If you have the HP Printer Assistant software installed on your computer, you can use it to perform a factory reset.
  • You can typically find the IP address on the printer’s control panel display or by looking at the network settings on your computer.

Are you experiencing issues with your HP LaserJet Pro M404n printer? Perhaps it’s acting up, printing errors, or you simply want to start fresh. A factory reset can often be the solution. This guide will walk you through the process of how to factory reset HP LaserJet Pro M404n, offering clear instructions and helpful tips.

Understanding Factory Resets

Before diving into the steps, let’s understand what a factory reset actually does. Essentially, it restores your printer to its original settings, as if it were brand new. This means:

  • All saved settings are deleted: This includes network configurations, custom paper sizes, and any personalized print settings.
  • All stored documents are erased: This includes scanned documents, saved fax numbers, and any other data stored on the printer’s memory.
  • The printer returns to its default language: This might be English, but it can vary depending on your region.

When to Consider a Factory Reset

A factory reset can be a useful tool in various situations:

  • Troubleshooting printer problems: If your printer is experiencing recurring errors, a factory reset can often resolve them.
  • Preparing for a new owner: If you’re selling or giving away your printer, a factory reset ensures the new owner starts with a clean slate.
  • Reversing unintended changes: If you’ve made changes to your printer settings that you regret, a factory reset can undo them.
  • Resetting network connectivity: If your printer is having trouble connecting to your network, a factory reset can help re-establish the connection.

Method 1: Factory Reset Using the Control Panel

This method is the most common and straightforward way to perform a factory reset on your HP LaserJet Pro M404n. Here’s how:
1. Power on your printer: Ensure the printer is powered on and ready to use.
2. Access the control panel: Locate the control panel on your printer, which typically includes buttons and a small display screen.
3. Navigate to the settings menu: Use the control panel buttons to navigate to the settings menu. This might be labeled “Setup,” “Options,” or something similar.
4. Find the “Factory Reset” option: Scroll through the menu until you find the option to perform a factory reset. It might be labeled “Restore Defaults,” “Reset to Factory Settings,” or something similar.
5. Confirm the reset: You’ll likely be prompted to confirm the reset. Double-check that you want to proceed, as this will erase all data and settings.
6. Wait for the reset to complete: The printer will take a few minutes to complete the reset process. Do not interrupt the process or turn off the printer.
7. Reconnect to your network: Once the reset is complete, you may need to reconnect your printer to your network. Follow the on-screen instructions or refer to your printer’s manual for guidance.

Method 2: Factory Reset Using the HP Printer Assistant

If you have the HP Printer Assistant software installed on your computer, you can use it to perform a factory reset. Here’s how:
1. Open the HP Printer Assistant: Launch the HP Printer Assistant software on your computer.
2. Select your printer: Choose your HP LaserJet Pro M404n from the list of connected printers.
3. Access the printer settings: Look for an option to access the printer settings or “Device Settings.”
4. Find the “Factory Reset” option: Navigate through the settings menu until you find the “Factory Reset” option.
5. Confirm the reset: You will be prompted to confirm the reset. Make sure you want to proceed, as this will erase all data.
6. Wait for the reset to complete: The printer will take a few minutes to complete the reset process. Do not interrupt the process or turn off the printer.
7. Reconnect to your network: Once the reset is complete, you may need to reconnect your printer to your network. Follow the on-screen instructions or refer to your printer’s manual for guidance.

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

This method is best suited for users who are familiar with navigating web interfaces.
1. Find your printer’s IP address: You can typically find the IP address on the printer’s control panel display or by looking at the network settings on your computer.
2. Access the EWS: Open a web browser on your computer and type the printer’s IP address into the address bar.
3. Navigate to the settings menu: The EWS will open, and you’ll need to navigate to the settings menu. This might be labeled “Settings,” “Administration,” or something similar.
4. Find the “Factory Reset” option: Look for the “Factory Reset” option within the settings menu.
5. Confirm the reset: You’ll likely need to confirm the reset. Make sure you want to proceed, as this will erase all data and settings.
6. Wait for the reset to complete: The printer will take a few minutes to complete the reset process. Do not interrupt the process or turn off the printer.
7. Reconnect to your network: Once the reset is complete, you may need to reconnect your printer to your network. Follow the on-screen instructions or refer to your printer’s manual for guidance.

Tips for a Successful Factory Reset

  • Backup any important data: Before performing a factory reset, make sure to back up any important documents or settings that you want to retain.
  • Consult your printer’s manual: If you’re unsure about any of the steps, refer to your HP LaserJet Pro M404n’s manual for detailed instructions.
  • Turn off the printer during the reset: It’s important to avoid turning off the printer during the reset process. Doing so could interrupt the reset and cause problems.
  • Reconnect to your network: After the reset, you’ll likely need to reconnect your printer to your network. Follow the on-screen instructions or refer to your printer’s manual for guidance.

Reinstalling Drivers and Software

Once the factory reset is complete, you’ll need to reinstall the necessary drivers and software. This will allow your computer to communicate with the printer and enable printing functionality.

  • Download the latest drivers: Visit the HP website and download the latest drivers for your HP LaserJet Pro M404n model.
  • Install the drivers: Follow the on-screen instructions to install the downloaded drivers.
  • Install any additional software: If you require specific software, such as HP Printer Assistant, download and install it from the HP website.

The Last Step: Putting Everything Back Together

After reinstalling drivers and software, you’ll need to configure your printer settings. This includes tasks like:

  • Connecting to your network: If you haven’t already, connect your printer to your Wi-Fi network.
  • Setting up your preferred paper sizes: Choose the paper sizes you use most frequently.
  • Setting up your preferred print settings: Customize your print settings, such as print quality, paper type, and color options.

Final Thoughts: A Fresh Start for Your Printer

By following these steps, you can successfully factory reset your HP LaserJet Pro M404n printer, restoring it to its original state. This can be a valuable tool for troubleshooting problems, preparing for a new owner, or simply starting fresh with your printer. Remember to backup any important data and consult your printer’s manual for detailed instructions.

Q: What happens to my printer’s warranty after a factory reset?
A: A factory reset does not affect your printer’s warranty.
Q: Does a factory reset delete my printer’s ink levels?
A: No, a factory reset does not delete your printer’s ink levels.
Q: Can I factory reset my HP LaserJet Pro M404n without a computer?
A: Yes, you can factory reset your printer using the control panel.
Q: What if my printer is still experiencing problems after a factory reset?
A: If your printer is still experiencing problems after a factory reset, you might need to contact HP support for further assistance.
Q: Does a factory reset affect the printer’s firmware?
A: A factory reset does not affect the printer’s firmware.

Was this page helpful?No
D
About the Author
Davidson is the founder of Techlogie, a leading tech troubleshooting resource. With 15+ years in IT support, he created Techlogie to easily help users fix their own devices without appointments or repair costs. When not writing new tutorials, Davidson enjoys exploring the latest gadgets and their inner workings. He holds...