Has anyone successfully set up Ricoh printers on a VLAN while still using PaperCut? We're at a point where we need to change the default passwords that the Ricoh engineers use for admin accounts. It's a bit frustrating since I know it'll likely cause issues during their visits for troubleshooting. Although I understand the necessity of changing these passwords, as they're mentioned in all their manuals, it's still a bit of a hassle.
6 Answers
They generally just access the service menu directly, which bypasses any user login requirements. You can also set your Ricoh to allow network access specifically from the PaperCut server’s IP address or range, which is a good security practice.
Yeah, we manage a bunch of MP/MPC6503 models. If you're changing the default Administrator password, just so you know, the techs have other ways to access the printers without that. Honestly, you should’ve changed those passwords from day one for better security, regardless of PaperCut.
I’m not with Ricoh, but I know that techs usually have ways to disable PaperCut and switch printers into a default service mode. Just be aware that once they toggle it back, you might need to intervene to get PaperCut to recognize the network again. Plus, a common issue is when someone changes the password and then leaves the company, leaving you locked out unless you factory reset the printer. Some brands are also moving away from simple passwords to ones that include the serial number, which can be annoying if you have a lot of printers.
I work with Xerox rather than Ricoh, but we had a similar setup with PaperCut over different VLANs. Just a heads-up that depending on your printer setup, you might need to tweak some settings in PaperCut as well after the password change.
We've had no issues with Ricoh technicians after changing the passwords for our printers. There are definitely alternative access methods to the tech settings without relying on the default password.
What’s the main goal of updating the admin password—just to boost security? Also, did you lease or purchase the printers outright?
Yes, the update is needed for Cyber Essentials compliance since they're leased.
That’s good to hear!