Changing internet providers or routers often poses the question for home appliance users of how to reconnect a printer to a new WiFi network. Model HP Smart Tank 515Despite its popularity and reliability, the continuous inkjet system requires proper network configuration to resume printing. Without a successful connection to the local network, the device will remain isolated, and remote printing or scanning from a phone will be unavailable.
Restoring the connection doesn't require in-depth technical knowledge, but it critically depends on following the correct sequence of steps. Mistakes when entering the password or selecting the operating mode can cause the wireless indicator to flash, signaling a problem. In this article, we'll cover all the current setup methods, using the built-in screen, the mobile app, and the WPS method.
Before you begin setting up, you need to make sure that your router is working correctly and is transmitting a signal in the 2.4 GHz range, as many printer models, including Smart Tank 515, may not see 5 GHz networks during initial setup.
It's also important to have the password for your new Wi-Fi network ready, as the system will require it during one of the configuration steps. Make sure you're in an area with a strong signal to avoid interruptions in data transfer between the router and printer.
If the device was previously connected to a different router, it may attempt to automatically reconnect to the old address, ignoring the new settings. In such cases, forced reconnection is required. reset network settings before starting a new connection procedure.
Preparing equipment and resetting network settings
The first step in the reconnection process is clearing old network profiles. The printer may store data from previous networks, which can sometimes cause addressing conflicts or confusion when attempting to connect to new equipment. For the model HP Smart Tank 515 There is a standard procedure for resetting network settings to factory defaults.
On the device's control panel, locate the wireless connection button, usually marked with an antenna icon. Pressing this button in combination with the cancel button (the cross) initiates a reset. After this combination, the lights on the panel should begin flashing, indicating the network module has rebooted.
⚠️ Note: After resetting the printer, all previously saved Wi-Fi Direct passwords and configurations will be deleted from the printer's memory. You will need to re-enter your connection information.
Make sure the cartridges are installed correctly and in the system tanks. CISS (Continuous ink supply systems) have ink. The printer may enter maintenance mode and disable network functions if it detects a critical mechanical error or lack of ink.
☑️ Preparing to set up the network
Using the printer control panel to connect
The most direct way to set up HP Smart Tank 515 To connect to a new network, use the device's built-in interface. There's a wireless button on the front panel; pressing it for about 3-5 seconds puts the printer into network search mode or setup mode.
When the wireless indicator starts blinking, it means the device has created its own access point or is ready to pair. At this point, open the list of available Wi-Fi networks on your smartphone or computer. You'll see the network name, which includes the printer model name, for example, "HP-Setup-515-Plus."
Once connected to this temporary network, you can launch a browser that will automatically redirect you to the setup page, or use the app HP Smart To complete the configuration, select "Add a printer" or "Change Wi-Fi settings" in the app. The system will then prompt you to select your new home network from the list.
- 📶 Press and hold the Wi-Fi button on the printer until the indicator light starts blinking.
- 📱 Connect your smartphone to the printer's temporary network or open the HP Smart app.
- 🔑 Select a name for your new home network and enter the password.
- ✅ Wait until the indicator on the printer stops flashing and turns solid blue.
It's important to note that passwords are case-sensitive. If you use complex passwords with symbols, make sure the keyboard layout on your control device matches the required one.
What to do if the printer does not see the network?
If your router isn't listed in the available networks during setup, it may only operate in the 5 GHz band. Enable a guest network or a separate SSID for the 2.4 GHz band on your router, as the HP Smart Tank 515's Wi-Fi module is designed for this standard to ensure maximum compatibility.
Setup via WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) method
For users who do not want to manually enter long passwords or encounter character entry errors, there is a technology WPSThis method allows you to establish a secure connection between your router and printer with just a few clicks. However, for it to work, your router must support this feature and have it enabled.
The process begins with activating WPS mode on the router itself. This can be a physical button on the router body or a software button in the administrator's web interface. After activating the mode on the router, you have about two minutes to perform the necessary steps on the printer.
On the control panel HP Smart Tank 515 You need to press the wireless button and the information button (the "i" icon) simultaneously, or use the combination specified in the instructions for your specific device version. The WPS indicator will typically start blinking, indicating that the router is being searched for.
| Connection method | Necessary actions | Setup time | Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Control Panel | Manually select a network and enter a password | 3-5 minutes | Average |
| WPS | Pressing buttons on the router and printer | 1-2 minutes | Low |
| USB cable | Connecting to a PC and transferring settings | 5-7 minutes | High |
| Wi-Fi Direct | Direct connection without a router | 2 minutes | Low |
If the connection is successful, the wireless indicator on the printer will glow solid. If the connection is unsuccessful, the indicator may blink at a different frequency, indicating a timeout or authentication error.
Configuration via the HP Smart mobile app
Modern devices HP optimized to work with the ecosystem HP SmartThis app is available for iOS and Android and greatly simplifies the reconnection process. It automatically detects the printer if it's in setup mode and can transfer Wi-Fi network passwords stored on your phone.
To get started, download and install the app from the official store. Open it and click the "Add a new device" button (usually the "+" sign). The app will prompt you to enable Bluetooth on your smartphone—this is necessary for initial printer detection without connecting to the same network.
Follow the on-screen instructions and the app will find Smart Tank 515 and will prompt you to configure it for the new network. You'll be prompted to select a router from the list and confirm the connection. The advantage of this method is that the app will automatically check for firmware updates, which can eliminate bugs that interfere with a stable connection.
⚠️ Please note: The HP Smart app requires you to create or sign in to an HP account. Without authorization, full setup and remote printing features will not be available.
During setup, the app may prompt you to enable the "Smart Tasks" feature or automatic ink refilling. These options are not required for a basic Wi-Fi connection and can be skipped or configured later in the app menu.
Connecting via USB cable (alternative method)
If wireless methods don't work or cause difficulties, you can use the classic wired method to initially transfer network settings. To do this, you will need a computer with a full driver package and software installed. HP Smart Tank 515.
Connect the printer to your computer via a USB cable. Launch the setup program or device configuration utility. In the menu, select "Convert USB connection to wireless" or "Configure wireless connection."
The software will scan your computer's available Wi-Fi networks and prompt you to select the desired one. After entering the password (if it isn't saved in the system), the software will transfer the settings directly to the printer via the USB port. Once the transfer is successful, you can disconnect the cable.
- 🔌 Connect the printer to your PC via USB cable.
- 💻 Run the HP software installer and select the "Wireless" connection type.
- 📡 The program will transfer network parameters from your computer to the printer.
- 🔓 Disconnect the cable after confirming a successful connection.
This method is especially useful on corporate networks where WPS methods may be limited or where precise IP address and other security settings may be required that are difficult to enter from the printer's control panel.
Diagnosing problems and resolving connection errors
Even if all instructions are followed, situations may arise when HP Smart Tank 515 The printer won't connect to a new network. A common cause is that the router is hiding the SSID (network name). If the network is hidden, the printer won't be able to detect it automatically and will need to manually enter the network name.
It's also worth paying attention to the encryption type. Printers support WPA2 and WPA3 standards, but older router models may use outdated WEP encryption, which modern devices may block for security reasons. Check your router's security settings.
Another common issue is a MAC address filter on the router. If the router has a whitelist enabled, you need to find the printer's MAC address (by printing a configuration report or looking at a sticker) and add it to the router's allowed list.
⚠️ Note: Router interfaces and app versions are constantly being updated. If the steps described don't match your screen, check the official documentation from the router or printer manufacturer, as the menu layout may vary.
If the Wi-Fi indicator is blinking blue, it means the printer is trying to connect. If it's blinking orange, there's an error. In this case, repeat the network settings reset procedure and try again, making sure the password is correct.
Why does the printer see the 5 GHz network but not connect?
Many modern routers combine 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks under a single name. The printer may be attempting to connect to a 5 GHz band it doesn't support. Try temporarily separating the networks in your router settings by giving them different names (for example, Home_2G and Home_5G), and connect the printer to the network ending in 2G.
Can the HP Smart Tank 515 be connected to a 5GHz network?
The HP Smart Tank 515's wireless module only supports the 802.11 b/g/n standard, which operates in the 2.4 GHz band. Connecting to 5 GHz networks (ac/ax standard) is technically impossible. If your router broadcasts both networks under the same name, try separating them in the router settings.
What should I do if my printer loses Wi-Fi connection after setup?
Check if the router's IP address or password has changed. Also, make sure the printer isn't too far from the router or behind thick walls that could block the signal. Try updating the printer's firmware using the HP Smart app.
How do I find my printer's IP address on a new network?
To obtain a network configuration report that displays the IP address, press the "i" (information) button on the printer control panel. The IP address is also displayed in the HP Smart app when you select your device, or you can find it in the list of connected clients on the router's web interface.
Do you need internet access to print via Wi-Fi?
Internet access is not required to print from a computer or phone on the same local network; only a working local network (router) is required. However, remote printing from anywhere in the world and firmware updates require internet access.