How to reconfigure a printer to a new Wi-Fi network: 3 proven methods

Changing your router, moving to a new location, or even simply changing your Wi-Fi password—and your printer suddenly stops printing. The situation is familiar to many: the device stubbornly ignores commands from the computer, and its display (if it has one) displays a worrying, disconnected icon. Unlike smartphones or laptops, printers don't always automatically adjust to new network settings, requiring manual configuration.

In this article we will look at Three main methods for reconnecting a printer to another Wi-Fi network — from the simplest (via the device's control panel) to the most universal (using WPS). We'll pay special attention to common errors that can prevent the printer from "recognizing" a new network, and provide a troubleshooting checklist. The instructions are suitable for most models. HP DeskJet, Canon PIXMA, Epson EcoTank, Brother DCP and other popular brands.

Preparation: What to do before changing your printer's Wi-Fi

Before messing with your printer settings, make sure the problem is actually network related. Sometimes the device doesn't print for other reasons, such as stuck task in the queue or disabled Wi-Fi printing modeTake a quick check:

• 🔌 Check the power supply: The printer must be plugged into a power outlet and in working order (indicators are on, there are no flashing errors).
• 📡 Make sure Wi-Fi is working: Connect another gadget (smartphone, laptop) to the new network and check the internet access.
• 🖨️ Diagnose your printer: Print a self-test page (usually by holding the button for 5-10 seconds). If the page doesn't print, the problem is with the device, not the network.
• 💻 Check your drivers: On the computer from which you are printing, update the printer driver via device Manager.

If everything is fine, but the printer still does not see the new network, proceed with reconfiguration. Important: Some models (eg. HP OfficeJet Pro 9015) reset all network settings when disconnected from power for a long time - this is normal and does not require repair.

Method 1: Reconnecting via the printer control panel

The most obvious method is to use the printer's built-in menu. It is suitable for devices with touch or push-button display (For example, Canon MG3640 or Epson L3250). Algorithm of actions:

1. Find the button on the printer. Settings (or Setup, Menu) and press it. On some models, you need to hold the button Wi-Fi 3–5 seconds.

2. Go to the section Net → Wi-Fi (or Wireless LAN Setup).

3. Select Setting up the connection (Wireless Setup Wizard). The printer will start scanning for available networks.

4. In the list, find the name of your new Wi-Fi network (SSID) and select it. If the network isn't there, check if it's hidden in your router settings.

5. Enter your Wi-Fi password. Use the keyboard on the printer display (on push-button models, you'll need to enter characters one at a time using the arrow keys).

6. Confirm saving the settings. The printer will reboot and attempt to connect.

If after these steps the printer still does not connect, check:

• 🔐 Password is correct: Printers are case-sensitive and character-sensitive. Please try entering your password again.
• 📶 Signal strength: The printer should be located no further than 5-7 meters from the router (without obstacles such as concrete walls).
• 🔄 Network mode: some older models do not support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)Temporarily enable compatibility mode in your router settings. 802.11n.

Make sure the printer is plugged into a power outlet.

Check that the Wi-Fi indicator is not blinking red.

Write down the exact network name (SSID) and password

Disable VPN on your computer (if used)

Reboot your router 2 minutes before setup-->

Method 2: Using WPS for a quick connection

Technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) Allows you to connect your printer to the network without entering a password—just press a button on the router. This method works if:

• 🔘 Your router supports WPS (usually there is a button with this logo).
• 🖨️ The printer is compatible with WPS (check the instructions or the official website).
• ⏳ The time between pressing buttons on the router and printer does not exceed 2 minutes.

Connection instructions:

1. Find the button on the printer. WPS (can be combined with a button Wi-Fi). Press and hold it for 3-5 seconds until the indicator flashes.

2. Press the button within 2 minutes WPS on the router (usually it is located on the back panel).

3. Wait until the Wi-Fi indicator on the printer stops blinking and turns solid—this means the connection is established.

If WPS does not work:

• 🔄 Reboot your router: Sometimes the WPS module freezes. Disconnect the power for 30 seconds and try again.
• 🔒 Check your router settings: WPS can be disabled in the web interface (usually in the section Wi-Fi → WPS).
• ⚠️ Please note the limitations: some printers (eg Brother HL-L2350DW) support only WPS PIN, not push-button mode.

What should I do if WPS doesn't work on my ISP's router?

Many routers from providers (for example, Rostelecom or Beeline) have limited WPS settings. In this case:

1. Try using WPS PIN instead of a button (the PIN code is usually indicated on the router sticker).

2. Go to the router's web interface (usually at 192.168.1.1) and manually enable WPS in the security settings.

3. If nothing helps, use method 1 or 3 from this article.

Method 3: Setup via computer or mobile app

If your printer doesn't have a display or the menu is too complex, you can reconfigure the Wi-Fi via special softwareMost manufacturers offer utilities for Windows/macOS or mobile apps. Let's look at the process using an example. HP Smart And Canon PRINT.

For HP printers:

1. Download and install HP Smart With official website.

2. Connect the printer to your computer via USB (temporarily).

3. Launch HP Smart and select your printer from the list.

4. Go to Printer Settings → Network and follow the instructions of the Wi-Fi setup wizard.

For Canon printers:

1. Install Canon PRINT Utility from the App Store/Google Play.

2. Turn on Bluetooth on your smartphone and bring it close to the printer.

3. In the application, select Printer Setup → Connect to a Network.

4. Follow the on-screen prompts to select a new Wi-Fi network and enter the password.

The advantage of this method is automatic diagnosticsThe program will automatically check network and printer compatibility and update drivers if necessary. However, please note:

Common mistakes and how to fix them

Even after proper setup, your printer may still fail to connect to Wi-Fi. Here are the most common issues and their solutions:

• 🔴 "Incorrect password":

  The printer is case-sensitive and sensitive to special characters. Try entering the password again using the English keyboard layout. If the password contains !, @ or #, make sure they are entered correctly.

• 🔍 "Network not found":

  Check if it is hidden SSID your network in your router settings. If so, temporarily make it visible or enter the network name manually (if your printer supports this option).

• 🔄 "Connection is lost":

  This may be related to DHCP server router. Go to the router settings and reserve an IP address for the printer (usually in the LAN → DHCP Reservation).

• 📵 "The printer is connected but does not print":

  Check if the printer is installed as default device in the Windows/macOS printing settings. Also, make sure there are no pending print jobs in the print queue.

To diagnose the network, you can print it on the printer network settings reportThis is usually done through the menu. Settings → Network → Print ReportThe report will indicate the current IP address, MAC address and connection status.

Features for printers without a display

Budget models (for example, HP DeskJet 2720 or Canon PIXMA MG2540) often don't have a screen, which complicates Wi-Fi setup. In this case, use one of the alternative methods:

• 🖥️ Via USB cable:

  Connect the printer to your computer and use the manufacturer's program (as in Method 3). This is the most reliable option for "blind" models.

• 📱 Via mobile app:

  Many brands (including Epson And Brother) allow you to set up Wi-Fi via the app, even if the printer doesn't have a display. The main thing is that the printer and smartphone are connected to the same network (at least temporarily).

• 🔄 Factory reset:

  Press and hold the button Wi-Fi (or Reset) 10-15 seconds until the indicators start flashing. After the reset, the printer will return to its "out of the box" state, and you can set it up again.

For printers HP There is a special mode without a display. Wi-Fi Direct:

1. Press and hold the button Information (ⓘ) and Wi-Fi simultaneously for 5 seconds.

2. On your computer or smartphone, connect to the network named DIRECT-xx-HP[model].

3. Open your browser and go to the address 192.168.223.1to set up your primary Wi-Fi connection.

Security: How to Secure Your Printer on a New Network

After connecting your printer to a new Wi-Fi network, don't forget about security. Printers often become a weak link in a home network, as many users don't change their default settings. Here's what to do:

• 🔒 Update firmware:

  Visit the manufacturer's website and check if your model's firmware is up-to-date. Outdated software may contain vulnerabilities.

• 🚫 Disable unnecessary protocols:

  In the printer settings, disable FTP, Telnet and other legacy protocols if they are not used. Leave only Wi-Fi And AirPrint (for Apple).

• 🔑 Change the administrator password:

  Many printers have a web interface (accessible via the device's IP address). By default, the login/password is often admin/admin or empty. Change it to secure.

• 🌐 Configure MAC address filtering:

  Add in the router settings MAC address Add your printer to the list of approved devices. This will prevent other devices from connecting.

If the printer supports guest network, connect it to it instead of the main one. This will limit access to other devices on your local network.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about reconnecting your printer to Wi-Fi

My printer isn't detecting the new Wi-Fi network. What should I do?

First check:

• Does Wi-Fi work on other devices?
• Isn't it hidden? SSID networks in the router settings.
• Does the printer support your network frequency (eg. 5 GHz). If not, switch the router to 2.4 GHz.

If the network is still not visible, try connecting via WPS or reset the printer to factory settings.

The printer is connected to Wi-Fi, but the computer can't see it. How can I fix this?

The problem is most likely in your computer settings:

1. Remove the printer from the device list and add it again.
2. Update drivers via device Manager.
3. Make sure the printer is installed as default device.
4. Disable your firewall or antivirus software while checking.

Is it possible to connect a printer to Wi-Fi without a computer?

Yes, if the printer has:

• Touch or push-button display (setting via menu).
• Support WPS (press the button on the router and printer).
• Support for mobile applications (eg. Canon PRINT or Epson iPrint).

Models without a display will require a temporary USB connection or use Wi-Fi Direct.

How do I reset my printer's network settings to factory defaults?

The method depends on the model:

• HP: hold the buttons Wi-Fi And Information 10 seconds.
• Canon: hold Stop/Reset 5 seconds.
• Epson: clamp down Setting up for 3 seconds, then select Network reset.
• Brother: Find it in the menu Network → Reset.

After resetting, the printer will lose all network settings and will need to be reconfigured.

The printer connects to Wi-Fi, but prints very slowly. What's wrong?

The reasons may be as follows:

• Weak Wi-Fi signal (move the printer closer to the router).
• Congested network (turn off other devices or switch the router to 5 GHz).
• Poor paper quality or dried ink (check cartridges).
• Outdated drivers (update them through the manufacturer's official website).