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The printer detects the wireless network (SSID) but fails to connect and displays an"Invalid WPA Passphrase" error message even when the correct wireless password is entered. This issue commonly occurs after replacing or upgrading a wireless modem/router.
Printer detects the wireless network name.
"Invalid WPA Passphrase" message appears when entering the wireless password.
Printer cannot complete the wireless setup.
Wireless printing fails after changing internet service equipment or router settings.
Printer works through USB but cannot connect wirelessly.
Cause
Incorrect wireless security configuration on the router.
Incompatible router or gateway settings.
Printer attempting to connect to an unsupported wireless band.
Corrupted wireless settings stored on the printer.
Router security mode conflicts.
Gateway/modem compatibility issues.
Troubleshooting Steps
1: Restore Network Defaults on the Printer
From the printer control panel, navigate to Network Settings.
Select Restore Network Defaults.
Allow the printer to restart.
Re-run the wireless setup process.
This clears previously stored wireless credentials and network settings.
2: Run the Wireless Setup Wizard
On the printer control panel, open:
Setup
Network Setup
Wireless Setup Wizard
Select the correct wireless network.
Carefully enter the WPA/WPA2 password.
Confirm and attempt the connection.
If the printer does not have access to wireless setup options, temporarily connect the printer using a USB cable and configure the wireless connection from HP software.
3: Verify the 2.4 GHz Wireless Network
Many HP printers support only the 2.4 GHz wireless band.
Log in to your router settings.
Verify that the 2.4 GHz band is enabled.
Assign a unique network name (SSID) to the 2.4 GHz band if both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks are enabled.
Connect the printer specifically to the 2.4 GHz network.
4: Configure a Fixed Wireless Channel
HP recommends avoiding automatic channel selection when troubleshooting wireless communication issues.
Access the router administration page.
Change the wireless channel from Auto to:
Channel 1
Channel 6
Channel 11
Test connectivity after each change.
5: Verify Wireless Security Settings
Temporarily disable wireless security on the router.
Attempt to connect the printer to the wireless network.
If the printer connects successfully:
Re-enable wireless security.
Set security mode to WPA2-AES.
Re-enter the wireless password on the printer.
Successful connection without security enabled indicates a router security configuration issue.
6: Verify Printer and Router Placement
Place the printer and router at least 5 feet (1.5 meters) apart.
Avoid placing the printer near:
Cordless phones
Microwave ovens
Bluetooth devices
Metal cabinets
Wireless interference can prevent successful authentication.
7: Disable IPv6 on the Printer
Open the printer's network settings.
Locate IPv6 Settings.
Disable IPv6.
Restart the printer.
Retry the wireless connection.
8: Test Alternate Wireless Security Modes
If WPA2 continues to fail:
Change the router security mode temporarily to WPA.
Attempt printer connection.
If successful, review router firmware and compatibility settings.
This step helps identify router authentication compatibility problems.
9: Evaluate Router or Gateway Compatibility
If all troubleshooting steps fail:
Verify whether the modem/router is a combined gateway device.
Test with an alternate router if available.
Place the gateway into bridge mode and connect a dedicated router.
