Changing internet providers, updating routers, or simply changing passwords often leaves users with the problem of their printer stopping responding to print commands. This is a common occurrence, as network settings The devices are locked to the previous SSID and access key. To resume operation, you must manually reconfigure the wireless module.
The procedure for changing Wi-Fi on HP LaserJet or HP DeskJet The setup process can vary significantly depending on whether the MFP has a display. Devices without a display require a USB cable or WPS, while models with a control panel allow you to enter data directly using the buttons. Understanding your device type is the first step to success.
In this article, we will examine in detail all the current methods of reconnection, including working with the utility HP Smart and manual setup via the menu. You'll learn how to properly reset the network and avoid common errors that lead to an endless signal search loop.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before making any configuration changes, make sure your router is stable and transmitting a signal in the 2.4 GHz band. Most office and home printers Hewlett-Packard They still don't support the 5 GHz frequency, so trying to connect to it is doomed to failure. Check your network name in the list of available connections on your smartphone or laptop.
You'll also need to know the exact Wi-Fi password. If you change your router but leave the network name (SSID) and password the same, the printer may connect automatically. However, if you change any of the settings, a complete reconfiguration will be required. wireless module.
Prepare a USB cable in advance if your model doesn't have a touchscreen. You'll need it to temporarily transfer network settings from your computer to the printer. Some budget models may require a USB cable to configure. HP Ink Tank almost impossible.
- 📶 Make sure your router is broadcasting a 2.4 GHz signal (not 5 GHz).
- 🔑 Prepare the current password for your Wi-Fi network.
- 🔌 Find a working USB cable (preferably the original one).
- 🔋 Make sure the printer is turned on and in ready mode.
⚠️ Important: If your router uses MAC address filtering, whitelist the printer's address before starting setup. You can find the MAC address by printing a configuration report (usually by pressing the "i" button or through the menu).
WPS method: quick connection without password
The fastest way to change your Wi-Fi network is to use technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method transfers security settings automatically, without having to manually enter a password. It's ideal if you don't have a cable or keyboard handy to enter a complex password.
First, find the WPS button on your router. It may be separate or combined with the reset button, in which case you need to press it briefly. Your HP printer should also have a button with a corresponding icon (often an antenna icon or two arrows). If your printer has a display, select it from the menu. Wireless → WPS.
Press the WPS button on the router and hold it for 2-3 seconds until the indicator light flashes. Then, within 2 minutes, press the same button on the printer or confirm the search in the device menu. The wireless indicator on the printer should start flashing blue and then turn solid once the connection is successful.
It's worth noting that the WPS method won't work if the router is configured to use only the WPA3 security protocol or if WPS is disabled in the router's settings by your ISP. In such cases, you'll need to use alternative methods.
Using a USB cable for initial setup
The classic and most reliable method for models without a screen is to use a USB interface. You'll need an installation disc or, more accurately, a driver and utility downloaded from the official website. HP Smart (or HP Printer Setup & Software). This method ensures that the printer receives the correct settings even in complex network environments.
Connect the printer to your computer via USB and turn it on. Start the software installation process. When prompted to select a connection type, select "Wireless Connection." The utility will automatically detect the device connected via cable and offer to transfer your current network's Wi-Fi settings to it.
During the setup process, the program will ask you to select your network from the list and enter the password. After the data transfer is successful, the printer will disable the USB printing interface and switch to Wi-Fi. At this point, you can disconnect the cable. If you Windows 10/11, the system can automatically complete the installation of drivers via the Internet.
☑️ USB Setup Checklist
⚠️ Caution: Do not turn off the printer or disconnect the cable while transferring settings via USB. Interrupting the process may cause the network module to become stuck in an error state, requiring a factory reset.
Setting up via the control panel (models with a screen)
Owners of devices of the series HP OfficeJet Pro or HP LaserJet Pro MFP With a color touchscreen, you can change the Wi-Fi network directly on the device. This eliminates the need to search for a computer or cable. The interface may vary slightly, but the logic is the same for all modern models.
Click on the wireless icon (antenna) at the top of the screen or go to the main menu and select Settings → Network → WirelessIf the printer is already connected to another network, you may need to disconnect the current connection first or select the "Restore network settings" option.
In the list of available networks that opens, find your router's name (SSID). Click it and enter the password using the virtual keyboard. Pay attention to the case and special characters. Once entered, click "OK" or "Apply." The printer will attempt to obtain an IP address and connect.
| Indicator status | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Flashing blue | Searching for a network or attempting to connect | Wait for completion or check password |
| It's blue | Successful connection to Wi-Fi | You can start printing. |
| Flashing red | Connection error or no signal | Check your router and reset it |
| It doesn't burn. | The wireless module is turned off | Enable in the settings menu |
If after entering the correct password the printer displays "Incorrect password" or "Unable to connect", try temporarily disabling MAC Randomization in your router settings, as older HP models may conflict with this security feature.
Reset network settings to factory defaults
If the printer has "remembered" the old network and refuses to connect to the new one, or if you can't access the settings menu, you can perform a full reset of the network settings. This will return the Wi-Fi module to its factory default state, clearing all saved SSIDs and passwords.
For models without a screen, there is a universal button combination. Typically, you need to press and hold the buttons simultaneously. Wireless communication And Cancel (cross) for 3-5 seconds until the power indicator starts flashing. After this, the printer will reboot the network module.
On devices with a screen, the path usually lies through the menu: Settings → Network → Restore network settings or Reset network settingsConfirm the action. After rebooting, the printer will again be visible to new devices (for example, when installed via HP Smart).
What to do if resetting doesn't help?
If the printer still doesn't see the network or connect even after a reset, there may be a firmware issue. Try updating the printer's firmware by temporarily connecting it via USB, or check if Client Isolation mode is enabled on your router, which prevents devices on the network from seeing each other.
⚠️ Note: Resetting the network does not delete fax settings or address book information if they are stored in the device's memory. However, personalized network settings (static IP, DNS) will be lost.
Solution and diagnostics
Even if you follow the instructions correctly, you may encounter difficulties. Often, the HP printer doesn't detect the 5 GHz network, only detecting 2.4 GHz. Make sure this band is enabled on your router and isn't hidden (Hidden SSID). Hidden networks require manual network name entry and won't appear in the list when scanning.
Another common issue is IP address conflicts. If there are many devices on the network, the router may assign the printer an address that is already in use. In this case, rebooting the router (turn it off for 10 seconds and then back on) can help, as this will refresh the DHCP address pool.
If nothing helps, use the built-in diagnostic tool. On models with a screen, run Wireless Communication Report (Wireless Test Report). The report will include an error code, such as "Authentication failed" (password error) or "No response from router" (signal problems).
Why can't my HP printer see my Wi-Fi network?
The most common issue is frequency band. The printer only sees 2.4 GHz, but you're trying to connect to 5 GHz. The network may also be hidden, or the router may limit the number of connected devices.
Is it possible to change the Wi-Fi on a printer from a phone?
Yes, if the printer supports Wi-Fi Direct or is already connected to the network. You can access the device settings and change the network through the HP Smart app, but the initial connection often requires the phone and printer to be on the same network or directly connected.
What is Wi-Fi Direct on HP and do I need to enable it?
Wi-Fi Direct allows you to print without a router by connecting your phone and printer directly. For regular printing in the office or at home, it's best to use regular Wi-Fi through a router, as Direct mode can limit speed and internet access on your phone while printing.
How do I find my printer's IP address after changing my network?
Print a configuration report (usually by pressing the "i" information button or through the Reports menu). You can also find the IP address in the HP Smart app under Device Information or in the router's control panel under Clients.