Modern printing devices have long ceased to be bulky machines that require a mandatory cable connection for each operation. Wireless connection has become a standard, allowing equipment to be placed anywhere in the apartment where there is access to a router. Model range HP DeskJet 2700 is one of the most popular solutions for the home due to its compactness and technology support Wi-Fi DirectHowever, initial setup often raises questions for users accustomed to simpler operating schemes.
Integrating a printer into a local network requires careful attention at every stage, from preparing the equipment to choosing the driver installation method. Mistakes at the initial stage can result in the computer simply not recognizing the device, even if it's working properly. In this article, we'll cover all the details so you can print documents and photos from any device without any hassle.
Before proceeding with the software part, it is necessary to make sure that the physical base for the connection is prepared correctly. Router The printer must be turned on and broadcasting its network, and the printer must be within range of a strong signal. If you plan to use WPS, make sure your router supports this feature, as some newer router models may have it disabled by default for security reasons.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure your computer or smartphone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz) to which you plan to connect the printer. The devices must be on the same network segment for proper detection.
Preparatory stage and network requirements
The success of the setup directly depends on the correct preparation of the environment. HP DeskJet 2700, like most budget models, works best in the frequency range 2.4 GHzAlthough many modern routers combine the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands under a single name, conflicts sometimes arise when connecting older printing protocols. If you have a dual-band router with separate network names (SSIDs), it's preferable to select the 2.4 GHz network.
It's important to know your wireless network password in advance. During the installation process, the wizard will request it to transfer the printer configuration. It's also recommended to temporarily disable VPN connections on your computer, as they can block local network device discovery.
- 📶 Make sure the Wi-Fi indicator on your router is on or blinking, indicating normal operation.
- 🔌 Check that the cartridges are installed in the printer and the protective orange tapes are removed from the internal mechanisms.
- 📱 Charge your mobile device to at least 50% if you plan to configure it via your smartphone.
Don't ignore the distance between devices. Although the Wi-Fi standard is designed to work over tens of meters, it's best to bring the printer and computer closer to the router for the initial setup (handshake). This minimizes the risk of data packet loss during the transfer of network keys.
WPS method: quick connection without entering a password
The easiest way to make friends HP DeskJet with your network - using technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method allows you to transfer security settings automatically by simply pressing a button on the router and on the device's control panel. You don't have to search for the password field or worry about case sensitivity.
First, make sure your router has a physical WPS button. It may be separate or combined with a reset button, which requires careful operation. On the printer panel, look for a button with an antenna or Wi-Fi icon. Press and hold it for 3-5 seconds until the power light starts blinking.
Sequence of actions: Wi-Fi button on the printer (3 sec) -> WPS button on the router (2 sec)
After activating the printer's search mode, press the WPS button on the router within two minutes. The printer's lights should start flashing blue, indicating the search and connection process. When the connection is established, the Wi-Fi indicator will turn solid blue.
It's worth noting that the WPS method won't work if your network uses corporate security protocols or a hidden SSID. In such cases, you'll have to resort to manual configuration via software.
Setup via the HP Smart app
Company Hewlett-Packard places a major emphasis on its own app HP SmartThis universal tool, available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, significantly simplifies the setup process. The app not only connects the printer but also allows you to monitor ink levels, scan documents, and run print quality tests.
Download the app from the official store (Microsoft Store, App Store, or Google Play) or from the manufacturer's website. After launching the app, click the "Add Printer" button or the plus sign. The app will automatically scan the network for new devices. If the printer is in setup mode (blue indicator flashing), HP Smart will prompt you to connect it.
⚠️ Attention: If the app doesn't find the printer, make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your device (phone or PC). HP Smart uses Bluetooth to initially discover the device before transferring Wi-Fi settings.
During the setup process, the app will ask you to select your Wi-Fi network and enter the password. It will then transmit this information to the printer. The device's screen may go blank or the indicator lights may change their blinking pattern—this is normal and indicates the network module is rebooting.
☑️ Checklist for a successful HP Smart installation
Once the process is complete, the app will prompt you to register your device and connect to HP+ services. This is optional, but can be useful for automatic ink ordering. You can skip this step if you plan to refill your cartridges yourself.
Manual installation of drivers from the official website
If automatic methods don't work or you require full control over the process, use the full driver package from the official website. This method is more labor-intensive, but it ensures the installation of all necessary components, including diagnostic and scanning utilities.
Go to the support page HP and enter your device model. The system will offer to download the full driver package. Run the installation file and follow the wizard's instructions. At some point, the program will ask for the connection type—select "Wireless."
Next, the wizard will offer several options. The most reliable is a temporary connection via USB cableConnect the printer to the computer using a high-quality cable, preferably no longer than 1.5 meters. The program will automatically retrieve the network settings from the operating system and transfer them to the printer, after which it will prompt you to disconnect the cable.
| Parameter | Description | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Connection type | Wireless (Wi-Fi) | The essential choice for the home |
| USB cable | Type AB (standard) | Needed for temporary setup |
| Driver | Complete software package | Provides all functions |
| OS | Windows 10/11, macOS | Check compatibility |
If there's no cable connection, the technician may suggest using the "Wi-Fi Direct" method or manually entering the data. In this case, you'll need to manually enter the network's SSID and password in the window that appears. Be careful with your keyboard layout.
What to do if the driver is not installed?
If the installation freezes, try temporarily disabling your antivirus and firewall. You can also run the installer as administrator by right-clicking the file and selecting the appropriate option.
Using Wi-Fi Direct technology
Technology Wi-Fi Direct Allows you to connect devices directly to the printer, bypassing your home router. This is ideal for quickly printing photos from a guest's smartphone or working in an office where access to the main network is limited. The printer creates its own access point, which you connect to just like regular Wi-Fi.
To activate this mode, press the Wi-Fi Direct button on the printer panel (the smartphone icon). The indicator light will begin to flash. To retrieve the password for this network, press the information button (i) next to the Wi-Fi button, and the printer will print a data page or display a code on the screen (if the model has a display, although the 2700 series typically prints a report).
Find a network with a name starting with HP-DeskJet-2700-series, from the list of available connections on your phone. Enter the password you found in the print report (by default, it's often found on a sticker inside the cartridge compartment or on the back panel). Once connected, you can print even if your phone's internet connection isn't working.
- 🔒 The Wi-Fi Direct password can be changed through the printer's web interface (EWS) to enhance security.
- 📉 The data transfer speed with a direct connection may be lower than through a router.
- 📵 When connecting via Wi-Fi Direct, your phone may temporarily lose internet access.
This method is good as a backup. If your primary router fails, you can still print important documents using a direct connection between your gadget and the MFP.
Diagnostics and solution
Even if you follow all the instructions, problems may still occur. Most often, the problem is that the printer "lost" its network connection after changing the router password or updating the firmware. In this case, resetting the network settings will help. Press and hold the buttons simultaneously Wi-Fi And Cancel (cross) for 3-5 seconds. The power and Wi-Fi indicators will begin flashing, indicating a factory reset.
Another common issue is the "Offline" status in Windows. Check the print service. Click Win + R, enter services.msc and find the Print Spooler service. Make sure it's running and the startup type is set to Automatic.
⚠️ Attention: Router interfaces and driver versions are subject to update. If the menu items described here differ, please refer to your router's documentation or use the "Automatic Fix" feature in the HP Smart app.
It's also worth checking whether your antivirus software is blocking the connection. Some aggressive firewall settings can prevent the printer from being detected on the local network. Try adding the device to the exceptions list while you're setting it up.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can HP DeskJet 2700 connect to a 5GHz network?
The HP DeskJet 2700 model only supports the frequency range 2.4 GHzIf your router is broadcasting a 5 GHz network with the same name, try separating the networks in the router settings or ensure the device is connecting to the correct frequency. Mixed networks (Smart Connect) sometimes cause detection issues.
What should I do if the Wi-Fi indicator is blinking blue but not staying on?
A blinking blue light means the printer is in setup mode and trying to find a network, or it has lost its connection. If it blinks continuously, try connecting again through the HP Smart app. If the light alternates with orange, this indicates an error and requires a reset.
Do I need to remove the cartridges before connecting via Wi-Fi?
No, the cartridges must be installed. Furthermore, the HP DeskJet 2700 printer often fails to enter Ready mode or connect to the network if the cartridge carriage is empty or not installed. Make sure all protective tape is removed.
How to find the IP address of a printer on the network?
Press the Information (i) button on the printer's control panel. The device will print a wireless report, which will list the IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.5). You can enter this address into a browser to access the web-based management interface (EWS).