With the increase in devices that require constant connectivity, it is a good idea to connect your HP printer to a wireless network. In this blog, we will cover three methods on how to connect an HP DeskJet printer to WiFi and provide some troubleshooting solutions.
Preparations Before Connecting
Wireless connectivity enables you to print directly from any device on the network, whether it's a laptop, computer, smartphone, or tablet. This frees your printer location from being tethered by multiple cables and keeps your workspace looking more organized.
To ensure a smooth connection process, make sure your printer is powered on and within range of your WiFi router. You should also have your WiFi network name (SSID) and password ready. In addition, if you plan to use the HP Smart app, download and install it on your device beforehand.
How to Connect HP DeskJet Printer to WiFi
There are several ways to connect your HP DeskJet printer to WiFi, each suited to different devices and user preferences. Here are three common ways to connect your HP DeskJet printer to WiFi.
Using HP Smart Software
The HP Smart software is the most widespread way to connect the HP DeskJet printer to WiFi. It simplifies the connection process and provides a user-friendly interface to manage your printer. It is a versatile option that works with Windows computers, macOS computers, Android phones, and iPhones, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Install the HP Smart App:
First, download and install the HP Smart App on your device. It is available on the Microsoft Store for Windows, the App Store for macOS and iOS, and Google Play for Android devices.
Access the HP Smart App:
Turn on your HP DeskJet printer and press the Wireless icon button. The printer will prepare to connect wirelessly to your device. Next, open the app and click “Set Up a New Printer” or “Add Printer.” Then, click “Get Started,” choose “Wireless” as the connection method, and click “Continue.”
Connect to Printer and WiFi:
The printer software will search for nearby HP printers. Once your printer appears in the list, select it and click “Continue.” This app will prompt you to select your WiFi network. Select your network from the list and enter the WiFi password. The HP DeskJet printer will then successfully connect to the WiFi.
Complete the Setup:
Once the DeskJet printer is connected, the HP Smart App will walk you through the remaining setup steps, such as printing a test page and registering your printer. After completing the setup, your printer is ready for wireless use.
The following video may differ from the above steps, but it also successfully uses the HP Smart software to connect to WiFi, taking the HP DeskJet 2700 printer as an example.
Using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)
WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) is another way to connect your HP DeskJet printer to WiFi. This method is quick and easy as it does not require you to enter the WiFi password manually. It works on Windows computers, macOS computers, Android phones, and iPhones. Take the HP DeskJet 2600, HP DeskJet 3632, HP DeskJet 2734e, HP DeskJet Plus 4100, and HP DeskJet 4155e printers etc., as an example:
Find the WPS Button:
First, find the WPS button on your home or office router. It's usually on the back or side of the device and may be labeled "WPS" or have an icon that resembles two curved arrows forming a circle.
Enable WPS on Your Printer: On your HP DeskJet printer, press and hold the Wireless icon button for 3-5 seconds until the Wireless light starts blinking. This indicates that this DeskJet printer is in WPS mode.
Press the WPS on Your Router: Within two minutes of activating WPS on your printer, press the WPS button on your router. When the light stops blinking, the HP DeskJet printer and router are automatically connected.
Install the HP Smart Software: Once connected, download and install the HP Smart software on your device. Open the app, select the corresponding connection method to add the printer, and then you can print wirelessly.
Using Wi-Fi Direct
HP's Wi-Fi Direct is a method that allows your device to connect directly to a printer without a WiFi network. This method is especially useful if your location uses a guest network connection, such as those found in many hotels or college campuses. Wi-Fi Direct also works with Windows computers, macOS computers, Android phones, and iPhones.
Take printers such as HP DeskJet 2652, HP DeskJet 2755e, HP DeskJet 3700, HP DeskJet 3755, HP DeskJet 3772, and HP DeskJet 4152e as examples.
Enable Wi-Fi Direct on the Printer: On your HP DeskJet printer, press the Wireless button and the Information button simultaneously to print a page that includes the Wi-Fi Direct name and password.
Connect Your Device to the Printer: On the device, open the WiFi settings and look for a network name that starts with "DIRECT" followed by your printer model number. Select this network and enter the Wi-Fi Direct password printed on the information page.
Print Directly: Once connected, you can print directly from the device without an internet connection. Simply select the printer when sending a print job and it will print like normal.
Troubleshooting Connection Issues
Despite following the above steps, you may still face some issues while trying to connect your HP DeskJet printer to WiFi.
Why is My HP Printer Not Connecting to Wi-Fi?
If your HP DeskJet printer is not connecting to WiFi, it could be due to some reasons, such as incorrect network settings or outdated firmware.
Update Printer Firmware: Check if your HP printer has outdated firmware, which can cause connectivity issues. You can update the firmware using your HP Smart printer software.
Hard Reset WiFi Network: Then, do a hard reset of your printer's network settings. Press and hold the Wireless button and the Cancel button simultaneously until the Power button starts blinking. This will reset the printer's wireless network settings. Check out our blog How to Reset HP Printer for more hard reset details.
Restore Wi-Fi Setup Mode: After the reset, you need to restore Wi-Fi setup mode. Press and hold the Wireless button and the Cancel button simultaneously for about three seconds until the Wireless light starts blinking.
Reconnect WiFi: After performing these steps, try to reconnect your printer to your WiFi network using one of the previously mentioned methods.
How Do I Reconnect My HP Printer to Wi-Fi After Changing the Router?
After changing WiFi routers, your printer may lose connection to the network. To reconnect your HP DeskJet printer to WiFi, follow these steps:
Reset Network Settings: First, reset the network settings to clear the previous WiFi information. This can be done by pressing and holding the Wireless button and the Cancel button until the Power button flashes.
Remove the Printer from HP Smart: Open the HP Smart app on your device and remove the printer from the list of devices, which ensures that no old network configuration is stored.
Re-Add the Printer: In the HP Smart app, click “Add Printer” and follow the prompts to set up your printer again. When prompted, select the SSID of the new router and enter the new WiFi password.
Complete Setup: Once connected, follow the remaining steps in the HP Smart app to complete the setup process. Your HP printer should now be connected to the new WiFi network.
Conclusion
Connecting an HP DeskJet printer to WiFi can be difficult because there are many steps involved, but by following this guide, you will have your printer properly connected. Whether you use the HP Smart software, WPS, or Wi-Fi Direct, each method offers an easy and effective way to get your printer online.
