Admin PW Forgotten

[William_PNG]

Hi,

I have a HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw Printer and have forgotten the admin password. Attempts to utilize factory reset has been to no avail as the options for factory reset requiring admin credentials which do not work. Additionally, when attempting to utilize the PIN on the printer the error shows of incorrect password.

Please assist.

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @William_PNG,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I understand how frustrating this is. HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP printers lock down most settings behind the admin password, and if that’s forgotten, even factory reset options can be restricted. Don’t worry, there are a few methods to regain access.

Why Factory Reset Didn’t Work

On newer HP LaserJet models, the Factory Reset option is protected by the admin password to prevent unauthorized changes. The PIN you tried is usually for Wi-Fi Direct or HP Smart setup, not for admin login.

HP Solutions

Option 1: Use the Embedded Web Server (EWS)

1. Print a Configuration Page from the printer: 
   • Setup > Reports > Configuration Report.
2. Find the printer’s IP address.
3. On your computer, open a browser → enter that IP.
4. If you can access EWS without admin login, go to: 
   • General > Restore Defaults.
   • Perform Reset Security Settings (sometimes available without a password).

Option 2: Perform a Full NVRAM Reset

This clears all settings, including the admin password:

1. Power OFF the printer.
2. Press and hold the Cancel (X) and Right Arrow buttons.
3. While holding, power ON the printer.
4. Keep holding until Permanent Storage Init or NVRAM Reset appears.
5. Release buttons and let the printer reboot.

(On some models, the combination is Cancel + Back Arrow or OK + Back Arrow.)

Option 3: HP Support Secure Reset

If the above doesn’t work, HP requires a special reset file generated for your printer’s serial number:

• Contact HP Support and request a Secure Admin Password Reset.
• They will verify ownership and provide instructions.

🔗 HP Official YouTube Guide: Restore Factory Defaults | HP LaserJet Pro Printers | HP Support

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!

Regards,

VikramTheGreat