Enabling HP Printer Secure Scan to Network Folder on Windows allows you to scan documents directly from your HP printer to a shared folder on your Windows PC. This feature is especially useful for offices and home users who want secure, organized digital copies of scanned files.
What is HP Printer Secure Scan to Network Folder?
HP Secure Scan to Network Folder is a feature available in many HP printers, including models like HP LaserJet Pro MFP M428fdw and HP OfficeJet Pro 9025, that allows users to:
- Scan documents directly to a shared network folder
- Secure scans with login credentials
- Protect sensitive documents
- Automatically save files in PDF, JPEG, or TIFF format
This feature uses Windows file sharing (SMB protocol) to securely transfer scanned files to a designated folder.
Requirements Before Enabling HP Secure Scan
Before setup, ensure you have:
- A Windows 10 or Windows 11 PC
- HP printer connected to the same network
- Administrator access on Windows
- Printer IP address
- Latest HP printer drivers installed
You can download drivers from HP Inc. official support tools installed on your PC.
Step 1: Create a Shared Network Folder on Windows
To enable HP Secure Scan, you first need to create and share a folder.
Create the Folder
- Right-click on Desktop
- Select New > Folder
- Name it:
HP Scans
Share the Folder
- Right-click the folder → Select Properties
- Go to Sharing tab
- Click Advanced Sharing
- Check Share this folder
- Click Permissions
- Allow Full Control
- Click Apply → OK
Note the Network Path
Click on the Sharing tab and copy the Network Path, which looks like:
\\YourComputerName\HP Scans
You will need this for HP printer setup.
Step 2: Find HP Printer IP Address
To configure Secure Scan, access the printer’s Embedded Web Server (EWS).
- On printer control panel
- Go to Network Settings
- Find and note the IP Address
Example:
192.168.1.25
Step 3: Access HP Embedded Web Server (EWS)
- Open browser on Windows PC
- Enter printer IP address in address bar: http://192.168.1.25
- Press Enter
This opens the HP printer’s web configuration page.
Step 4: Configure Secure Scan to Network Folder
Inside the HP Embedded Web Server:
- Go to Scan tab
- Select Scan to Network Folder
- Click Add Folder
Enter Required Details:
- Display Name: HP Secure Scan
- Network Path:
\\ComputerName\HP Scans - Username: Windows username
- Password: Windows login password
Select:
- File type (PDF recommended)
- Scan resolution
- Security options if available
Click Test to verify connection.
If test succeeds → Click Save and Apply
Step 5: Enable Login Authentication (Optional Security Setup)
For added security:
- Go to Security Settings in EWS
- Enable Access Control
- Configure user authentication
- Set scan permissions per user
This ensures only authorized users can scan documents.
How to Download and Install HP Printer Software for Secure Scan
If Secure Scan option is missing, install full HP software.
Download HP Printer Software
- Visit HP Support Assistant (pre-installed in many systems)
- Search your printer model
- Download Full Feature Driver Package
- Install and restart PC
This ensures scan drivers and network scanning features are enabled.
How to Activate HP Secure Scan on Printer Control Panel
After setup:
- Go to printer touchscreen
- Select Scan
- Choose Network Folder
- Select saved folder name
- Place document
- Press Scan
Your document will be saved directly to the Windows shared folder.
HP Secure Scan to Network Folder Not Working – Troubleshooting Guide
If HP Secure Scan is not working, try these fixes:
1. Check Network Connection
- Ensure printer and PC are on same WiFi
- Restart router
2. Verify Folder Permissions
- Ensure folder sharing is enabled
- Confirm Full Control permission is granted
3. Check Windows Firewall
- Temporarily disable firewall
- Allow File and Printer Sharing
4. Confirm Login Credentials
- Re-enter Windows username and password
- Avoid PIN login; use full account password
5. Update HP Printer Drivers
- Open Device Manager
- Update printer drivers
- Restart system
6. Enable SMB Protocol
In Windows Features:
- Enable SMB 1.0/CIFS File Sharing Support (if required for older printers)
HP Printer Secure Scan Setup After Windows Update
Sometimes Windows updates disable sharing settings.
If Secure Scan stopped working after update:
- Re-enable File Sharing
- Check Network Discovery is ON
- Reset shared folder permissions
- Re-add folder in HP EWS
Benefits of Enabling HP Secure Scan to Network Folder
Secure Document Handling
Prevents documents from being stored on unsecured USB devices.
Faster Workflow
Scan directly without needing computer intervention.
Centralized Storage
All scanned documents stored in one organized folder.
Professional Office Use
Ideal for businesses using HP multifunction printers.
When to Contact HP Customer Support
Contact HP support if:
- Scan test fails repeatedly
- Printer firmware errors appear
- Embedded Web Server does not load
- Authentication errors persist
Make sure to provide:
- Printer model
- Windows version
- Error message details
Final Words
Enabling HP Printer Secure Scan to Network Folder on Windows is a smart way to improve security and productivity. By properly configuring folder sharing, login authentication, and HP printer network settings, you can scan documents seamlessly and securely.
If Secure Scan is not working, updating drivers, verifying credentials, and adjusting Windows sharing settings usually resolve the issue quickly.
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