Password - Pax S80 Default

If the touchscreen or keypad is unresponsive, you cannot enter any password. Test by pressing the red Cancel button. If nothing happens, the terminal may need repair.


paxpass is not a secret. It’s a publicly documented, default factory key. Treating it as anything less than a full-blown security risk is a mistake. For any organization still running PAX S80 terminals, the first question to ask your IT or payments team shouldn't be "What is the default password?" — it should be "When was the last time we changed it?"

Because in the chain of payment security, the weakest link is rarely the encryption. It’s the credential that everyone knows.

Understanding the PAX S80 Default Password: A Quick Guide for Merchants

If you’re running a business, your credit card terminal is the heartbeat of your daily operations. The PAX S80 is a legendary workhorse in the industry, but it can be frustrating when you're locked out of a menu or trying to perform a simple void. If you are being prompted for a code, here is everything you need to know about the PAX S80 default password and how to use it. What is the Default Password?

Unlike many electronics that use a static "1234" or "0000," the PAX S80 typically uses a dynamic password based on the calendar. pax s80 default password

The Current Date: In most cases, the password is the current date in MMDDYYYY format.

Example: If today is April 16, 2026, you would enter 04162026.

Alternative Short Format: Some configurations may only require the month and day (MMDD).

Static Defaults: If the date doesn't work, your service provider may have set it to a common static default like 9876 or pax9876@@, which are standard across many other PAX models like the A920 Pro. When Will You Need This Password?

You’ll usually encounter a password prompt when trying to access high-level functions, such as: Refunding or Voiding a transaction. Changing Network Settings (like switching from IP to Dial). Accessing the System Menu for terminal updates. If the touchscreen or keypad is unresponsive, you

Performing a Batch Close (depending on your processor's security settings). Trouble Signing In?

If the date-based password or the standard defaults aren't working, it means your Merchant Service Provider (MSP) has likely set a custom administrative password for your specific terminal. In this scenario, you should:

Check the sticker on the side or bottom of your terminal; sometimes tech support will write it there.

Contact your terminal provider’s support line. They can often reset the password remotely or provide the specific code they use for their fleet. Important Note: End-of-Life Status

It is worth noting that PAX Technology officially announced the End-of-Life (EOL) for the S80 series as of early 2023. While these machines are still widely used, support and security updates are becoming limited. If your terminal starts acting up beyond just password issues, it might be time to talk to your provider about an upgrade to a newer Android-based model like the PAX A80 or A920. paxpass is not a secret

How to change default passwords on DC Direct PAX devices - Datacap

The default password for the Go to product viewer dialog for this item.

terminal is generally the current date in MMDDYYYY format. If the terminal does not accept that, it may be the date in a different time zone (e.g., tomorrow's date). Default Password: Current Date (MMDDYYYY). Alternative Default (Some Versions): 990712 or 000000. Android-based PAX (e.g., A80/A920): pax9876@@. How to Use the Password (S80) Enter Function Menu: Press the FUNC or Menu button.

Access Admin/Settings: Choose an action (e.g., Reports, Void, Settlement).

Enter Date: When prompted for the password, input the date (e.g., April 15th, 2026, is 04152026) and press the green ENTER key. Troubleshooting Locked Terminal PAX S80 Set-Up Guide - GEM-CAR

From a security standpoint, the existence of well-known default passwords is the device's biggest liability if not managed correctly.