HP 6978 printer is locked

[jo46032]

Hello, 

I have just moved and need to re-set up wireless on my 6978 printer. All needed functions seem to be blocked and I am thinking I may have originally had my MAC connected and that's why everything is locked for me using my new laptop? Is it possible to provide instructions for a factory reset to override the lock? I have had this printer for over 5 years and have never encountered this issue-thanks for any help!

[Raj_05]

Hi @jo46032,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It sounds like your HP OfficeJet Pro 6978 printer might be locked due to the previous configuration, possibly linked to the wireless settings or a previous device like your Mac.

Here’s how you can perform a factory reset to unlock the printer'

Factory Reset for HP OfficeJet Pro 6978:

Turn off the printer: Press the power button to switch it off if it's on.

Disconnect the power cable: Unplug the power cord from the back of the printer and from the power outlet.

Wait 60 seconds: Let the printer fully power down.

Reconnect the power cable: Plug the power cord back into the printer and the wall outlet.

Turn on the printer: Press the power button to turn it back on.

Access the Reset Menu:

• On the printer's home screen, tap the "Wireless" or "Network" icon.
• Go to Settings (usually a gear icon).
• Scroll down and select Restore Network Defaults. Confirm if prompted.

Re-establish the wireless connection: After the reset, you will need to reconnect your printer to the wireless network by using the wireless setup wizard:

• Go to the Wireless menu.
• Select Wireless Setup Wizard and follow the on-screen instructions to reconnect your printer to your new Wi-Fi network.

If resetting the network doesn't solve the lock issue and you're unable to access other features, a full factory reset may be required:

Full Factory Reset:

1. On the home screen, touch Settings.
2. Scroll down and touch Printer Maintenance.
3. Select Restore and then choose Restore Factory Defaults.
4. Confirm the action to reset the printer to its original factory settings.

Once the reset is complete, you can set up the printer again on your new laptop.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4

HP Support