Changing your internet provider or router, as well as a simple Wi-Fi password, are often the reasons why office equipment or home multifunction devices stop connecting to the network. Reconnecting the printer to Wi-Fi — a task that seems complicated at first glance, but requires attention to detail and consistent actions. Unlike smartphones, typing devices don't always have convenient touchscreens for quickly entering a new password.
In this article, we'll cover all the current methods for changing your wireless connection: from using WPS buttons to manual configuration via a temporary USB connection. You'll also learn how to properly reset your network settings. HP LaserJet, Canon PIXMA or Epson L-seriesso that the device can correctly detect the new router.
The main rule before starting work is to make sure you know the exact name of your new network and its password. The 2.4 GHz frequency standard is mandatory for 90% of printers, as most models do not support the 5 GHz range.If your router combines both ranges into a single network with the same name, conflicts are possible, which we'll also discuss below.
Equipment preparation and diagnostics of the current status
Before beginning any active reconfiguration steps, it's necessary to conduct an initial diagnosis. Users often try to immediately enter new data, ignoring the current state. network module printer. If the device is stuck trying to connect to the old router, new commands may simply not be processed.
The first step should always be a full reboot. Turn off the printer using the power button, unplug the power cord, and wait 30-60 seconds. This will allow the capacitors to discharge and the RAM to clear any temporary errors. Turn on the device and wait until it fully boots up, until the LEDs stop flashing erratically.
Check the connection status on the device itself. On models with a display, this can be done through the menu. Network or WirelessIf there is no screen, pay attention to the blinking LEDs: usually, the blue or green connection indicator blinks if there is no connection to the router, and remains solid when the connection is successful.
☑️ Check before reconnecting
It is important to understand that modern MFP (Multi-Function Printers) may have multiple connection profiles. Make sure you are not trying to configure Wi-Fi Direct Instead of connecting to an infrastructure network, direct printing creates the printer's own access point and prevents internet access, which can be confusing during diagnostics.
How to reset network settings on a printer
The most reliable way to force the device to forget the old router and start searching for a new one is to reset the network settings. This doesn't affect your personal files or fingerprint counter; it only clears the wireless module configuration. The procedure may vary depending on the manufacturer.
On devices HP The combination of the "Wireless" and "Cancel" buttons is often used. On models Canon And Brother You may need to hold down the "Stop" button or use a special combination via the menu. It's best to check the exact sequence for your model in the documentation, as the firmware is updated.
⚠️ Attention: After resetting, the printer will enter connection standby mode. The screen may go blank or start flashing. Don't panic or turn off the device—this is normal behavior, indicating that the Wi-Fi module is activated and ready for reconfiguration.
If your device has a touch screen, the path usually lies through Settings -> Net -> Restore network settingsConfirm the action, and in a few seconds the printer will be ready to work with the new router. Some enterprise models may require entering an administrator PIN, which is often set to 0000 or 1234.
What to do if resetting doesn't help?
If a standard reset doesn't work, try performing a "Cold Reset." This often requires holding down a specific key combination (e.g., "Cancel" + "Power") while turning on the printer. Be careful: this method may reset all printer settings to factory defaults, including tray settings and language preferences.
After a successful reset, the Wi-Fi indicator should begin flashing at regular intervals, indicating it's ready to pair. You can now proceed directly to connecting to the new access point.
Using WPS technology for quick connection
The easiest way to reconnect a printer to Wi-Fi without entering a password using buttons is technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)It allows devices to exchange encryption keys automatically by physically pressing a button on the router. This method is ideal if the printer doesn't have a screen or keyboard.
Find the button WPS On your router's body. It may be a separate button or combined with the Wi-Fi power button. Press and hold it for 2-5 seconds until the WPS indicator on the router starts blinking. You have about 2 minutes to activate the printer's search mode.
On the printer control panel, locate the button with an antenna or wireless network icon. Press and hold it for a few seconds until the light starts blinking. If the device has a display, select WPS Push Button in the network settings menu.
- 🔹 Press the WPS button on the router and hold it for 3 seconds.
- 🔹 Press the wireless button on the printer within 2 minutes.
- 🔹 Wait until the indicators on both devices stop flashing and turn solid.
- 🔹 Print a network report to ensure that you have successfully obtained an IP address.
It's worth noting that some modern routers have WPS disabled by default for security reasons. If automatic connection doesn't occur, check your router settings. This method also won't work if your network uses older encryption. WEP, although in 2026 such networks are extremely rare.
Manual setup via the printer control panel
If automatic methods don't work, you'll have to resort to the classic method—manually entering data through the device's menu. This method is the most universal and is suitable for any model equipped with a display, whether monochrome or LaserJet or color inkjet EcoTank.
Navigating menus can be difficult if buttons have dual functions. Use the arrow keys to move the cursor and the button OK or Enter for confirmation. Your goal is to find the section Wireless Setup Wizard or Wireless Setup Wizard.
In the list of available networks, find the name of your new router (SSID). Pay attention to the case and special characters. If the network is hidden, select "Enter network name" and enter the SSID manually. After selecting the network, the device will ask for a password.
Backspace or left arrow| Symbol type | How to enter on a printer | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Capital letter | Pressing the up arrow button or special button | A, B, C |
| Number | Switching the number input mode (usually the # or 123 button) | 1, 2, 3 |
| Special character | Long press or symbol menu | @, #, $ |
| Removal | Erase symbol |
Entering the password is the most time-consuming step. Be careful: many printers don't display entered characters as asterisks, and some models don't even have the option to display the password on the screen. If the connection fails the first time, double-check the keyboard layout and capitalization.
⚠️ Attention: When entering your password, make sure you do not mix up the numbers.
0(zero) and the letterO, as well as the number1(one) and the letterl(el). Printers are sensitive to these differences.
After successfully entering the password, the printer will attempt to obtain an IP address from the router's DHCP server. This process can take up to 60 seconds. If you see "Connected" or "Done" on the screen and the Wi-Fi indicator turns blue, congratulations, you've succeeded!
Setup via a computer using a USB cable
When entering a password using the printer's buttons seems impossible, a PC can help. This method is often called "USB setup" because it uses a temporary cable connection to transfer Wi-Fi settings. You'll need a driver or configuration utility from the manufacturer.
First, connect the printer to your computer via a USB cable. Run the installation disc or download the full driver package from the official website. During the installation, select the "Wireless" or "Wi-Fi" connection type.
The setup program will automatically detect the device via USB and offer to transfer your computer's wireless network settings. This is a very convenient method, as you don't have to manually enter the password on the printer's small screen.
Sequence of actions in the installation wizard:1. Select "Connect wirelessly".
2. When the program asks, connect the USB cable.
3. Select your network from the list on the PC screen.
4. Enter the Wi-Fi password in the window on your computer.
5. Wait for the message "Settings transferred" and disconnect the USB.
It's important that the computer and printer are within range of a strong signal at this point. After the settings are transferred, the printer will disable the USB data port and switch to the wireless module. The computer may lose connection with the device for a short time while it changes its IP address.
Using mobile apps for configuration
Modern manufacturers such as HP (HP Smart app) Canon (Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY), Epson (Epson iPrint) and BrotherWe've made the reconnection process as simple as possible via smartphones. If you have an Android or iOS smartphone, this may be the fastest solution.
Download the manufacturer's official app. Make sure your phone is connected to the new Wi-Fi network you want to connect the printer to. Turn on Bluetooth and location services on your phone—these are often used for initial device detection.
Launch the application and click the add new printer button (usually the icon +). The app will find the device in standby mode. It will then automatically transfer the Wi-Fi settings stored on your phone to the printer. All you have to do is confirm the action.
- 📱 Open the manufacturer's app on your smartphone.
- 📱 Make sure your phone is connected to the target Wi-Fi.
- 📱 Click "Add a printer" and follow the on-screen instructions.
- 📱 Wait for the setup and print test to complete.
This method is especially convenient because the app will immediately prompt you to install the necessary drivers on your phone and check the ink levels. If the printer isn't found, the app may prompt you to switch to printer mode. Wi-Fi Direct for initial setup, creating a direct connection between the phone and the printer.
Common problems and their solutions
Even if you strictly follow the instructions, difficulties may arise. One of the most common issues is frequency range incompatibility. As mentioned earlier, many printers only work within the frequency range 2.4 GHzIf your router broadcasts a 5 GHz network with the same name, the printer may "see" the network but won't be able to connect to it.
The second common case is MAC address filtering. If the router's security settings are set to whitelist devices, a new (or reset) printer will be blocked. You need to find the printer's MAC address (usually on a sticker on the back or in the network report) and add it to the router's allowed list.
⚠️ Attention: Router interfaces and printer firmware are constantly being updated. If the menu items described differ, look for sections with similar meanings (Wireless, Network, WLAN) or refer to the documentation for your specific model.
It's also worth checking your computer's firewall settings. Sometimes, after changing networks, Windows or your antivirus software may block printer detection, treating the new network as "public." Switch the network profile to "Private" or "Trusted" in Windows settings.
The printer sees the network, but says "Connection error".
This often indicates an incorrect password or encryption type. Try temporarily changing the encryption type on your router to WPA2-Personal (AES), as older printers may not support WPA3. Don't forget to reset your security settings after connecting.
If all else fails, try setting a static IP. Log in to the printer's web interface (by entering its current IP address in a browser), go to network settings, and manually set the IP address, excluding it from the router's DHCP range to avoid address conflicts.
Questions and Answers (FAQ)
Do I need to remove the old printer from the Windows device list before reconnecting?
It's recommended, but not required. If you simply changed networks, the old instance will remain in the system as "Offline." It's best to delete it via Parameters -> Devices -> Printers and scannersTo avoid confusion when selecting a device to print to, please add the device again after successfully connecting to the new network.
My printer stopped printing over Wi-Fi after changing my router, even though the settings seemed correct. What's wrong?
Most likely, the printer's IP address has changed, and the port with the old address remains in the system. Go to the printer properties on your PC, select the "Ports" tab, and check the IP address. If it doesn't match the printer's current address (you can check this by printing a network report), create a new standard TCP/IP port with the correct address.
Is it possible to reconnect a printer to Wi-Fi without access to a computer, using only a router?
Yes, if your router supports WPS and has a physical button, and if your printer supports WPS. In this case, you don't need a computer at all. Some routers also allow you to configure connected devices via a web interface, but this is rare for consumer models.
What should I do if my printer can't see the 5 GHz network?
Most printers don't support the 802.11ac/ax (5 GHz) standard. You need to access your router settings and ensure that the 2.4 GHz network is enabled and has a separate name (SSID), or that the router is operating in mixed mode. Connect the printer specifically to the 2.4 GHz network.
How do I find my printer's IP address after connecting to a new network?
The easiest way is to print a network configuration report. This is usually done through the menu: Settings -> Reports -> Network ReportThe IP address is also often displayed on the printer's screen in the upper corner or in the network status section. On a computer, the address can be found in the printer properties or via the command arp -a in the command line.