Moving to a new office, changing your internet provider, or simply purchasing a new router with a different network name—situations requiring changing peripheral connection settings arise regularly. When your router stops responding to requests for the old name, your HP printer The device loses connection to the computer and becomes a useless piece of plastic. Restoring the print quality in this situation is a task that many users put off, fearing the complex technical aspects.
Fortunately, modern models such as HP LaserJet or HP DeskJet, are equipped with built-in tools for quick reconfiguration. You don't need to be a system administrator to perform this procedure. All you need is a computer or smartphone and the steps, which vary slightly depending on whether the device has a display.
In this material we will examine in detail all the possible methods that allow change WiFi network on your printing device. We'll cover methods for models with and without a screen, using WPS technology, and setting up via the proprietary app. Following the steps carefully will help you avoid mistakes and get back to printing documents in minutes.
Preparatory stage before changing settings
Before changing the configuration, make sure the new router is fully operational. Make sure the router is turned on, the LEDs are steady, and you know the exact name and password for the new network. If the network name (SSID) contains Russian letters or special characters, it's best to temporarily rename the network to Latin characters using the router settings, as older printer models may display such characters incorrectly.
It's also important to determine your printer type. Devices with a color touchscreen are configured directly through the menu on the printer's housing. Models without a display, often found in the budget segment, require using buttons on the control panel or connecting to a computer via a USB cable for initial setup. Having this information ready in advance will ensure a smooth process.
⚠️ Attention: If your router broadcasts signals on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, make sure the printer is connected to the 2.4 GHz network. Most HP office and home printers do not support the 5 GHz standard and simply won't detect a network with that frequency.
Check the distance between the printer and the router. During setup, the device must be within a strong signal range. If the printer is located in an alcove or behind a thick concrete wall, the network search process may take too long or fail. Temporarily moving the printer closer to the signal source will speed up the process.
Resetting the HP Printer Network Settings
The first step in the reconfiguration process is often a complete reset of the current network settings. This is necessary so that the device stops attempting to connect to the old, no longer existing network and switches to listening mode for new commands. Without this step, the printer may continue to search for a familiar SSID and ignore new requests.
For most models with a display, the procedure is as follows: on the home screen, locate the wireless or antenna icon. Tap it, then select "Settings" or "Options." In the menu that opens, find the "Network" or "Wireless" section. Within this section, find the "Restore network settings" or "Reset network settings" option.
If your device doesn't have a display, use a button combination. Typically, this involves pressing the wireless button and the cancel button (the cross) simultaneously for 3-5 seconds. The power and wireless lights should flash, indicating a successful reset. After this, the printer is ready to search for a new router.
☑️ Pre-reset check
After the reset, the wireless indicator will begin blinking blue frequently. This means the device is in setup mode and awaiting new input. If the indicator remains solid, the printer is still connected to a network, and the reset procedure must be repeated.
Setting up via the control panel (models with a screen)
The most straightforward method of changing the network is available to owners of MFPs and printers of the series HP OfficeJet Pro or HP LaserJet Pro, equipped with a color display. The interface may differ slightly depending on the firmware version, but the logic remains the same. You need to access the wireless settings menu.
Click on the icon Wireless (antenna) on the home screen. If you don't see this icon, tap the tab Setting up (gear), then go to the section Net. Select an item Wireless network or Wireless MenuHere you will need to run Wireless Network Setup WizardThe system will begin searching for available networks within range.
From the list that appears, select a name for your new router. If the network is hidden, select "Enter network name" (SSID) and enter the name manually, being careful about capitalization. You will then be prompted for a password. Use the on-screen keyboard to enter the security key. Be careful: it is case-sensitive.
| Interface element | Function | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Antenna icon | Fast Wi-Fi access | Top of the screen |
| Gear | Main settings menu | Left or top corner |
| Setup Wizard | Searching and connecting to the network | Wireless Network menu |
| Connection indicator | Displaying status | Next to the Wi-Fi button |
After entering the password, the printer will attempt to establish a connection. A successful connection is confirmed when the signal strength icon appears and the LED stops blinking. If the connection is unsuccessful, double-check that the password you entered is correct.
What should I do if the on-screen keyboard doesn't work?
Sometimes the touchscreen may be slow to respond. Try using a stylus (not a sharp object) or lightly moistening your finger. If the issue persists, restart the printer by unplugging it for 30 seconds. This won't cause any data loss, but it will update the touchpad drivers.
Using WPS technology for quick connection
Technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) This significantly simplifies the connection process, eliminating the need for the user to manually enter a complex password. This method is ideal if you've forgotten the access key or it's too long. However, for it to work, your router must also support this feature, which is true for most modern models.
There are two ways to activate WPS. The first is hardware: find the button labeled WPS on the router. Press and hold it for a few seconds until the WPS indicator flashes. Then, within two minutes, press the wireless button on the printer (or select WPS from the menu if there's a screen). The devices will find each other automatically.
The second method is via a PIN code. On the printer screen, select the PIN connection method. The device will generate an eight-digit code. This code must be entered into your router's security settings via the web interface (usually at 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1). After entering the code, the router will transmit the network settings to the printer.
- 📡 Press the WPS button on the router, then the Wi-Fi button on the printer.
- 🔢 Or select the PIN method in the printer menu.
- 💻 Enter the received code into the router settings via a browser.
⚠️ Attention: Some internet providers or corporate networks may block the WPS function for security reasons. If the connection fails, use the manual setup method via the setup wizard.
Setup via the HP Smart app and USB cable
For printers without a screen or in cases where the control panel is unresponsive, the best solution is to use an app HP SmartThis is a universal tool for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It allows you to set up your device from scratch, even if it's not currently connected to any network.
Download and install the HP Smart app from the official website or app store. Launch the app and click the "Add Printer" button or the plus sign. The app will begin searching for devices. If the printer isn't found, select "Printer not found" or "Set up a new printer."
At this point, the app will ask you to connect the printer to your computer or smartphone via a USB cable. This temporary connection is necessary to transfer data about the new WiFi network. After connecting the cable, the app will automatically detect the device and prompt you to select your new wireless network from the list.
Enter your WiFi password when prompted. The app will transfer the settings to the printer via a USB cable. After successful configuration, you can disconnect the cable, and the printer will continue to operate wirelessly. This method is particularly secure, as it eliminates password entry errors on a small keyboard or touchscreen.
Solving common connection problems
Even if you follow the instructions correctly, you may encounter difficulties. One common issue is that the printer sees the network but won't connect. This may be due to the encryption type. Make sure the appropriate security standard is installed on your router. WPA2-PSK (AES)Older WEP protocols or mixed modes may cause conflicts.
Another nuance is MAC address filtering. If the router settings allow whitelisting of devices, a new (or reset) printer will not be able to connect until you add its MAC address to the list of allowed devices. The address is usually printed on a sticker on the back of the device or in the network configuration report.
Drivers are also worth mentioning. If your computer doesn't see your printer on the network after changing your router, the operating system may need to update the device's address. Go to "Devices and Printers," delete the old printer, and add a new one using the IP address assigned to the printer by the router.
- 🔒 Check the encryption type on your router (WPA2 is recommended).
- 📜 Make sure that the printer's MAC address is not blocked by a filter.
- 🔄 Remove the old printer from the system and add it again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to change the WiFi network on an HP printer from a phone?
Yes, if your printer model supports Wi-Fi Direct or has a display. You can use the HP Smart app on your smartphone to transfer new network settings to the printer after connecting your phone to the network.
What should I do if my HP printer can't see my WiFi network?
Make sure your router is broadcasting a 2.4 GHz signal. HP printers often don't detect 5 GHz networks. Also, check that the network name (SSID) isn't hidden in your router settings—hidden networks must be added manually.
Do I need to reinstall drivers after changing the network?
Typically, no. If the computer and printer are on the same network, the connection will be restored automatically. However, if the system is unable to find the device for a long time, uninstalling the old driver and installing a new one through HP Smart may resolve the issue.
How do I find my printer's IP address after connecting to a new network?
On printers with a display, press the wireless or Ethernet icon. On models without a display, print a network configuration report by quickly pressing the information (i) button or the button combination specified in the instructions.