Changing ISPs, updating a router, or simply changing the home network password are common reasons why users lose connection to their printing device. At this point, the computer "sees" the printer, but it's impossible to print because the device remains in the old network configuration. The reconfiguration process can be complicated due to the lack of a screen on some models, but there are proven solutions.
In this article, we'll look at universal connection methods that are suitable for most modern models from HP, Canon, Epson, and Brother. The key point The key is to understand that the printer must be put into standby mode and then transmit new network information to it. Whether you're using a laser MFP or an inkjet photo printer, the logic is similar, although the interfaces may differ.
First, you'll need to know the exact name of your new network (SSID) and the current password. If you've changed your router, make sure it's already configured and sharing internet. It is important to note, that most office and home printers only operate in the 2.4 GHz range, so make sure that your new network is active in this frequency range if the router is dual-band.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before beginning the software setup, a few physical steps must be completed. Make sure the printer is turned on and ready (not asleep). If any error lights are illuminated or the ink/toner icon is flashing, troubleshoot these issues first, as they may be blocking the network module.
The second important step is preparing the computer or smartphone you'll use for setup. The device you use for configuration must be connected to the new Wi-Fi network to which you plan to connect the printer. This is especially important for setup methods using WPS or mobile apps.
⚠️ Important: Make sure Client Isolation is not enabled on your router. This feature prevents devices on the same network from seeing each other, making it impossible for your computer to find the printer even after successfully connecting to Wi-Fi.
It's also a good idea to have the USB cable that came with your device ready. Even if you plan to print wirelessly, a temporary wired connection is often the most reliable way to transfer Wi-Fi settings, especially for models without a touchscreen. The cable should be in good condition and not too long (preferably under 2 meters) to avoid signal loss during initial synchronization.
Resetting the printer's network settings
Before entering a new password, it's recommended to clear the device's memory of old connection profiles. This will prevent conflicts when the printer attempts to automatically reconnect to a non-existent network. On devices with a display, the procedure is simple: go to the settings menu, select "Network," then find "Restore network settings" or "Reset network settings."
For models without a display (for example, many HP DeskJet or Canon PIXMA series), a button combination is used. Most often, you need to simultaneously press the "Wireless" (antenna icon) and "Cancel" (cross) buttons for 3-5 seconds until the power light starts flashing. After this, the device will reboot the network module.
- 📡 On Epson devices, press and hold the Wi-Fi button until the Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct lights flash alternately.
- 🔄 For Brother, press "Menu", select "Network", then "WLAN" and "Reset Network".
- 🖨️ On HP, press the Wireless button and the Information (i) button at the same time until the Power button flashes.
After the reset, the wireless indicator will typically start flashing blue, indicating that the printer is in setup mode and ready to receive new data. If the indicator remains solid, the device remembers a network, and the reset procedure needs to be repeated.
WPS method: quick connection without password
The easiest way to change the Wi-Fi connection on a printer is to use WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). It allows devices to exchange encryption keys automatically at the press of a button. This method is ideal if you don't want to manually enter a complex password with symbols and numbers on a small screen or via a computer.
To implement this method, find the WPS button on your router. It may be a physical button on the router's case or a software button in the router's web interface. Press and hold it for 2-3 seconds until the WPS indicator on the router starts blinking. You have about 2 minutes to activate the same function on your printer.
On the printer, find a button with a Wi-Fi or WPS icon. If there's no dedicated button, go to the wireless network settings menu and select "WPS Push Button." Once activated, the lights on both devices should turn solid, indicating successful pairing.
⚠️ Note: The WPS method will not work if your router uses the WEP security protocol or if WPS is disabled in the router settings. This method is also not supported by some corporate networks.
Setup via USB cable (Classic method)
If automatic methods don't work, the most reliable option is to use a USB cable. This method allows the printer software to directly retrieve Wi-Fi settings from a computer already connected to the desired network. You'll need an installation disc or a full version of the driver downloaded from the official website.
Run the driver installer on your computer. When prompted for a connection type, select "Wireless" or "Wi-Fi," but do not disconnect the USB cable. The program will prompt you to connect the cable if it isn't already connected. This is when the configuration files are exchanged.
Follow the on-screen instructions. The program will detect available Wi-Fi networks via your PC's network adapter and prompt you to select the desired one. All you need to do is enter the password. After the data transfer, the printer will disconnect the USB cable (either programmatically or by asking you to do so) and attempt to connect to the router automatically.
☑️ Check before connecting via USB
Successful completion of the procedure is usually accompanied by a network configuration report being printed or the blue Wi-Fi indicator on the device lighting up. If the connection is lost after disconnecting the cable, repeat the procedure, ensuring that antivirus software or firewall software isn't blocking the transfer of network settings.
Using the mobile app and Wi-Fi Direct
Modern printers support Wi-Fi Direct technology, which allows for a direct connection between your smartphone and printer without a router. This is convenient for temporary printing, but for permanent printing, it's better to use the mode where the app configures the printer to connect to your main router.
Download the manufacturer's official app (HP Smart, Canon PRINT, Epson iPrint, Brother iPrint&Scan). Launch the app and select "Add a printer" or "Set up a new device." The app will find the printer in Direct mode (often the network name will include "Direct" or the device model).
Connect your phone to the printer's Wi-Fi network (the password is usually found on a sticker inside the device or on the screen). Then, using the app, select your home Wi-Fi network from the list and enter the password. The app will transmit this information to the printer, and it will switch to using the router.
| Manufacturer | Application name | Setting feature |
|---|---|---|
| HP | HP Smart | Automatically search and transfer passwords from iOS/Android systems |
| Canon | Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY | Requires manual selection of a network from the list in the application |
| Epson | Epson iPrint | Supports setup via USB cable (Android OTG) |
| Brother | Brother iPrint&Scan | Has a built-in Wi-Fi setup wizard for older models |
What should I do if the app doesn't see the printer?
Make sure location and Bluetooth are enabled on your smartphone. In modern versions of Android and iOS, these permissions are required to scan for available Wi-Fi networks and nearby devices. Also, make sure your phone is connected to the 2.4 GHz network, not the 5 GHz band, if your router shares the two.
Solution: Printer won't connect
Even if you follow the correct steps, errors can still occur. A common problem is that the printer sees the network but can't connect. This often happens if there's a typo in the password or if the router uses a hidden SSID (network name). In this case, you need to enter the network name manually, paying attention to the case of the letters.
Another common cause is MAC address filtering. If the router settings have a whitelist enabled, a new printer (or one that has had its settings reset) will be blocked. You need to find the printer's MAC address (print a configuration report or look at the label) and add it to the router's allowed list.
It's also worth checking the frequency range. Many older and budget printers do not physically support the 802.11ac (5 GHz) standard.If your router only broadcasts one network name that combines both ranges, try separating them into "Home_2.4" and "Home_5G" in the router settings, and connect the printer strictly to the first option.
- 🔌 Check that your password doesn't contain an extra space at the end (a common mistake when copying).
- 📶 Make sure the printer is within a strong signal reception area (no further than 5-7 meters from the router without walls).
- 🔄 Restart your router if it has been running for a long time without being turned off—a buffer overflow can interfere with new connections.
⚠️ Note: Menu interfaces and item names may vary depending on your device's firmware version. If you cannot find the item you're looking for, please refer to the user manual on the manufacturer's official website, as menu implementation details may change.
Questions and Answers (FAQ)
Is it possible to change the Wi-Fi on a printer without a computer, only from a phone?
Yes, this is possible if your printer supports Wi-Fi Direct technology and the manufacturer has a corresponding mobile app. You connect directly to the printer's network, and the app transfers the settings from the main router. However, some older models without a display may still require a computer for the initial driver installation.
What should I do if I changed my router to a different brand?
The router brand doesn't matter; only the Wi-Fi standards are important. You need to perform a full network reset on the printer (as described in the second section) so it forgets the old router, and then reconfigure the connection to the new device using any of the methods described (WPS, USB, or menu).
The printer connects to Wi-Fi, but the computer can't see it. What's wrong?
Most likely, your computer and printer are on different subnets or frequency bands that are isolated from each other. Check whether both devices are connected to the same network (for example, both are connected to 2.4 GHz). Also, try temporarily disabling your antivirus or firewall software on your computer to test.
How to print a network configuration report?
This is usually done through the menu: press the "Settings" (gear) or "Report" button, then select "Network Report" or "Network Config." On models without a display, long-pressing the wireless button or pressing the "Copy" + "Cancel" button combination often helps. It's best to check the manual for your model for the exact combination.