Modern office equipment requires flexible connectivity, and getting rid of unnecessary wires is becoming a priority for most users. Model HP DeskJet 2721 Equipped with a built-in wireless module, it allows you to print documents and photos directly from your smartphone or laptop without a USB cable. However, initial setup can often be challenging, as it requires precise steps and understanding of the control panel indicators.
In this article, we will look at all the available methods for activating a wireless connection, including using the button WPS, manual setting via HP Smart and the creation of a direct communication channel WiFi DirectYou'll learn how to correctly interpret blinking indicators and what to do if your computer stops detecting your device after a system update.
Before you begin setup, make sure your router is broadcasting in the 2.4 GHz band, as many budget printer models don't support 5 GHz. Also, make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your mobile device or PC, which is used for initial device discovery within the ecosystem. Hewlett-Packard.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Successful printer integration into your home network begins long before you even turn on the buttons on the panel. First, you need to make sure that The router is stabilizing and assigning IP addresses to devices. If you're using complex corporate networks with MAC address filtering or a hidden SSID, the standard procedure may not work without intervention from a system administrator.
The second critical point is the cartridge charge. When you first turn it on HP DeskJet 2721 The printer undergoes a calibration procedure that requires power. If ink levels are critically low, the device may enter deep sleep mode or an error message may occur, blocking network functions. Make sure the protective tape is removed from all cartridges before installation.
⚠️ Note: Some dual-band routers automatically switch devices between 2.4 and 5 GHz frequencies. To ensure stable printer operation, we recommend temporarily separating the networks in your router settings or assigning different names (SSIDs) to each band.
The third step is checking the drivers. Although modern operating systems like Windows 10/11 And macOS Although they can automatically detect equipment, additional software is often required for full scanner functionality. Download the latest version of the utility. HP Smart will save time in the setup process in advance.
☑️ Check before connection
WPS method: quick connection without password
The easiest way to connect HP DeskJet 2721 with a router - use technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method allows you to transfer security settings automatically, without having to manually enter a long password. This is especially convenient if your computer keyboard doesn't have a numeric keypad or you're using a touchscreen device.
First, find the button WPS On your router. It may be a physical button or a virtual one in the router's web interface. Press and hold it for 3-5 seconds until the router's security indicator starts flashing. This means the device has entered search mode and is ready to accept a new device onto the network.
Immediately after activating the mode on the router, go to the printer. On the panel HP DeskJet 2721 Find the wireless button (antenna icon) and the button Info (or the button with the letter "i"). Press them simultaneously and hold for about 3 seconds. The wireless indicator on the printer will begin flashing blue, indicating a connection attempt.
- 📶 If the WiFi indicator turns blue and stops blinking, the connection is successful and you can print.
- 🔄 If the indicator continues to flash for more than 2 minutes, the connection is not established. Repeat the procedure, moving closer to the router.
- ⚡ Make sure there are no thick concrete walls or strong sources of interference between the router and the printer when pairing.
Setup via the HP Smart app
A more universal and informative way is to use a branded application. HP SmartThis method allows you to not only connect your device, but also immediately register it for subscription ink. HP Instant Ink, and also check the charge level of the cartridges. The application is available for Android, iOS, Windows And macOS.
Launch the app and click the "Add Printer" button or the plus sign. The program will ask you to enable it. Bluetooth on your smartphone or tablet. This is necessary for the initial handshake: via Bluetooth, your phone will transmit a list of available networks and your WiFi password to the printer, eliminating the need to enter data on a small screen or using buttons.
During the setup process, the application may prompt you to update firmware (firmware) of the printer. We recommend accepting this update, as new firmware versions often contain fixes for security vulnerabilities and improve the stability of the wireless module. The power indicator may flash during the update, and the process itself will take several minutes.
| Setup stage | User action | Indication on the printer |
|---|---|---|
| Search for a device | Pressing "+" in the app | The blue WiFi indicator is flashing |
| Transferring a password | Confirmation in the app | The indicator is constantly on |
| Software update | Waiting for completion | The power indicator is flashing |
| Readiness | Print a test page | The blue WiFi indicator is on |
Using WiFi Direct mode
Mode WiFi Direct allows you to create a direct wireless connection between your computer or phone and your printer. HP DeskJet 2721 Without a router. This is ideal if the internet is temporarily unavailable, the router is faulty, or you're visiting someone and don't want to enter someone else's network password.
To activate this mode, press and hold the button WiFi Direct (The smartphone icon in front of the printer) on the control panel will appear for about 3 seconds. The light next to the button will begin flashing. Once activated, the printer will create its own network, the name of which usually begins with "HP-DeskJet-2700...".
⚠️ Please note: When connecting via WiFi Direct, your computer or phone may lose internet access because the network traffic will be routed through the printer. To restore internet access, you will need to manually switch back to your primary network.
To connect, find the printer's network in the list of available WiFi networks on your device. You can find the default password by clicking the button. Info on the printer - the device will print a page with technical information, which will indicate WiFi Direct PasswordEnter this code to complete pairing.
How to change WiFi Direct password?
By default, the password is randomly generated. To set a permanent password, use the printer's web interface (EWS). Enter the printer's IP address in your browser, go to Networking -> WiFi Direct -> Settings, and change the password in the Security Key field.
Installing drivers and software
Although basic printing can work without a full driver package thanks to protocols AirPrint or MopriaFor full scanner operation and ink level monitoring, specialized software must be installed. Operating system Windows It often finds the device itself, but its functionality may be limited.
It is recommended to visit the manufacturer's official website and download the full driver package for the model. DeskJet 2721During installation, the program will prompt you to select a connection type—select "Wireless" or "WiFi." The installer will automatically scan your network and offer to add the printer found to the system.
If the automatic search does not yield any results, use the Add Device Wizard: go to Settings → Devices → Printers & Scanners and click "Add a printer or scanner." In the list that appears, select your HP DeskJetIf the device is not listed, click "The printer I want isn't listed" and select to search by IP address or name.
- 🖨️ Drivers ensure correct color rendering and control of the paper feed tray.
- 📡 The software allows you to monitor the network status and signal quality.
- 🛠️ The full driver version includes utilities for cleaning nozzles and aligning cartridges.
Diagnostics and solution
Even with proper setup, situations may arise when the printer HP DeskJet 2721 The device stops responding or disappears from the network. This is often due to the router changing its IP address or an address conflict. If the WiFi indicator is flashing blue, the connection has been lost and the device is attempting to reconnect.
Try resetting your network settings. To do this, press and hold the buttons simultaneously. Wireless communication And Cancel (cross) for 3 seconds. The power and wireless indicators will begin flashing. After the reset, the printer will return to setup mode and can be reconnected through the app.
It's also worth checking if your antivirus or firewall is blocking it. Windows Communication with the printer. Temporarily disabling protection will help identify the problem. If printing resumes, add the printer to the exceptions list in your security software.
Why doesn't the printer see the 5 GHz network?
The WiFi module in the HP DeskJet 2721 model only operates in the 2.4 GHz band. If your router broadcasts a 5 GHz network with the same name (SSID), the printer may become confused or simply not see the network. Solution: Separate the networks in the router settings by giving them different names, such as "Home_2.4" and "Home_5," and connect the printer to the first one.
How to find out the IP address of a printer?
To obtain the current IP address, press the "Info" button (letter i) on the control panel. The printer will print a report showing the IP address in the Network or Wireless section. This address is needed to access the device's web interface (EWS).
What to do if the orange indicator is on?
An orange light usually indicates an error. If the cartridge light is blinking, there's a problem with the ink or sealing tape. If the paper light is blinking, there's a jam or missing sheets. If the WiFi light is blinking, there's a connection problem. The exact error code is often displayed on the computer screen when you try to print.
Is it possible to connect a printer to a hidden network?
Connecting to a hidden network (Hidden SSID) using the standard WPS procedure is not possible. You will need to use a USB cable to initially transfer network settings via a computer or use WiFi Direct mode, which is independent of router settings.