Modern office and home tasks require mobility, and a wired USB connection often becomes a limiting factor. Wireless printing Allows you to send documents from any device in the home, be it a laptop, smartphone, or tablet, without having to physically approach the device. For owners of compact models in the series DeskJet 3700 Setting up a network is the first step to comfortable operation.
The process of integrating a device into a local network may seem complicated at first glance. Most problems arise due to inattention to detail or incompatible software versions. In this article, we'll cover all current connection methods, paying special attention to mobile applications and manual router settings.
Successful configuration depends on the correct sequence of actions and understanding how the components interact. communication protocols your router and printing device. We'll cover both automatic and manual methods so you can choose the most suitable option for your infrastructure.
Preparatory stage and requirements verification
Before you begin setup, you need to make sure your network equipment meets the basic requirements. Printers of the series HP DeskJet 3700 operate exclusively in the range 2.4 GHzIf your router only broadcasts the 5 GHz network or uses client isolation mode, connection will be impossible.
It's also a good idea to prepare your login information in advance. You'll need to know the exact name of your wireless network (SSID) and password. Pay attention to the case of letters and special characters, as even a single error will result in failure.
- 📶 Make sure your router is turned on and broadcasting a signal in the 2.4 GHz range.
- 📱 Charge the mobile device or laptop from which you will perform the setup.
- 🔌 Place the printer and router in close proximity to each other (no more than 1-2 meters).
- 💾 Make sure your computer or smartphone has internet access to download drivers.
⚠️ Please note: Some providers provide equipment with hidden security settings. If you're using a corporate network or guest access with web page authentication, a standard connection may not work.
It's important to check the indicators on the device's control panel. A flashing blue wireless indicator usually indicates the device is in setup mode and ready to pair. If the indicator remains solid, the old network settings may already be saved.
Using the HP Smart app to set up
The most modern and convenient way to integrate a printer into a network is to use a proprietary application. HP SmartThis tool automatically scans the surrounding area and offers to connect detected devices. You can download the app from official stores. App Store or Google Play, as well as from the manufacturer's website for PC.
After installation, launch the app and click the "Add a new printer" button. The app will request permission to use geolocation, which is necessary for discovering devices on the local network. Follow the on-screen prompts, entering the Wi-Fi password when prompted.
☑️ HP Smart Setup Checklist
During the installation process, you may need to switch between networks. Your smartphone may temporarily disconnect from your home Wi-Fi to transfer data to the printer, then switch back. This is normal security behavior. iOS And Android.
Pay special attention to firmware updates, which are often offered immediately after connection. Install the latest version firmware Fixes known bugs and improves connection stability.
Connecting via WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)
The WPS method allows you to connect to a network without entering a password, using a physical button on the router. This is one of the fastest methods if your router supports this feature. On the front panel of the printer HP 3700 There is also a wireless button.
To activate the mode, press and hold the wireless button on the printer until the indicator light starts flashing. Then, within two minutes, press the WPS button on your router. This is usually marked with a lock icon or two arrows.
The devices will automatically exchange encryption keys. The printer's indicator light will stop flashing and turn solid blue, indicating a successful connection. This method is especially useful if you don't have a computer or smartphone with a screen nearby.
| Indicator | State | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Blue flashing | Setup mode | Ready to connect |
| Blue smooth | Connected | The network is active |
| Orange flashing | Error | Problem with signal |
| Turned off | Inactive | The wireless module is turned off |
⚠️ Note: WPS is considered less secure than using complex passwords, as it allows you to connect while physically close to the router. In some modern routers, this feature may be disabled by default.
If automatic pairing doesn't occur within two minutes, you'll need to repeat the process. Make sure you haven't pressed the WPS button for any other devices at this point to avoid request conflicts.
What to do if the WPS button does not work?
If your router doesn't have a physical button, you can activate the function through the web interface. Access your router settings in a browser (usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1), find the Wireless or Wi-Fi section, and press the virtual WPS button. Then, search for the printer.
Setting up Wi-Fi Direct for printing without a router
Technology Wi-Fi Direct Allows you to create a direct connection between your device and printer, bypassing your home network. This is ideal for situations where the router is unavailable, overloaded, or you're visiting someone.
To enable this feature, press the smartphone button on the printer's control panel or use the settings menu. You'll see the network name (beginning with HP-Print-...) and connection password on the printed report or on the device's screen.
Connect your smartphone or laptop to this network as you would a regular access point. Once connected, you can print documents. Data transfer speeds may be lower than with a full-fledged router.
It's worth remembering that when Wi-Fi Direct is active, your device may temporarily lose internet access if it doesn't support dual-network support. This is an important consideration for users who need to access cloud services while printing.
Installing drivers and software
Even with a wireless connection, the operating system requires the correct drivers to correctly interpret print commands. Windows 10 and 11 often automatically detect the device, but the functionality of the basic driver may be limited.
We recommend downloading the full software package from the official support website. Please select your exact model. DeskJet 3700 and your operating system version. The installer will prompt you to select a connection type—select wireless.
Installation sequence:1. Run setup.exe
2. Select "Wireless connection"
3. Wait for the device to be searched for
4. Confirm driver installation
During installation, you may be prompted to connect via USB for the initial network settings transfer. This is normal for some software versions. Once configured, you can disconnect the cable.
For macOS users, the process is even simpler: the system uses technology AirPrint, which doesn't require installing additional drivers. Simply add the printer in the "Printers & Scanners" section of system preferences.
Diagnostics and solution
If your printer isn't visible on the network, first check to see if the device's IP address has changed. The router may have assigned a new address during a reboot, while the computer is searching for the device using the old one. Restarting the router and printer often resolves address assignment issues.
Another common cause is using a guest Wi-Fi network. Devices on the guest network are often isolated from each other for security reasons, blocking communication between the PC and printer. Switch to the main network.
- 🔍 Check if your antivirus or firewall is blocking the connection.
- 📡 Make sure the printer is not too far from the router.
- 🔄 Try resetting the network settings on the printer (press and hold the Wireless and Cancel buttons).
⚠️ Please note: Router interfaces and app versions are constantly being updated. Button locations and menu item names may differ from those described. Always consult your router manufacturer's current documentation.
In complex situations, static IP addressing can be helpful. By assigning a permanent address to the printer in the router settings, you'll avoid issues with IP changes after a reboot.
Why won't my HP 3700 printer connect to 5GHz Wi-Fi?
The wireless module in this printer series only supports the 802.11 b/g/n standard, which operates exclusively in the 2.4 GHz band. 5 GHz networks (802.11 ac/ax) cannot be physically detected by the device. You will need to enable 2.4 GHz network broadcasting on your router or merge network names (SSIDs) if your router supports Smart Connect.
How to find out the IP address of a printer?
The easiest way is to print a network configuration report. Press and hold the "Information" button (i icon) on the printer control panel for a few seconds. The device's current address will be listed in the "IPv4" section on the printed report.
Is it possible to connect a printer to a hidden network (Hidden SSID)?
Yes, but this requires manual configuration. Automatic network discovery won't find the hidden network. You'll need to use WPS or configure a USB connection using the HP full driver package, where you can manually enter the hidden network name.
What to do if the orange indicator is on?
A blinking orange wireless light indicates signal loss or a connection error. Check your Wi-Fi password, make sure your router is working, and that your printer is within range. This could also indicate a problem with the ink cartridges, so check for any missing cartridges.