Establishing a wireless connection between your computer and printer is the first step to creating a comfortable working environment in your home or office. Model HP DeskJet 2720 Equipped with a built-in Wi-Fi module, it can be placed anywhere in the room where there's a signal, eliminating the need to run long USB cables across the entire office. Modern printing technologies require flexibility, and wireless connectivity allows users to send documents directly from a laptop, tablet, or smartphone without the hassle of cables.
The setup process may seem complicated at first glance, but if you follow the clear steps, the entire procedure will take no more than ten minutes. You don't need to be a networking expert to successfully install the drivers and configure the connection. The key is to have your home network data handy and ensure all devices are within range of the router's signal.
In this article, we'll cover every step of the setup process, from preparing your equipment to checking print quality over the air. You'll also learn about the intricacies of using the app. HP Smart, methods for manually entering network parameters and methods for eliminating typical errors that may occur during the synchronization of devices.
Preparing equipment and checking the network
Before you begin software configuration, you must ensure that all system components are physically ready. Printer The printer should be unpacked, cartridges installed, and plugged in. Make sure the power indicator is solid and the device is not making any unusual noises that might indicate mechanical problems.
The state of your wireless network is critical. Your router must be turned on and working reliably. If you use a dual-band router, make sure your computer and printer are connected to the same frequency, preferably 2.4 GHz, as many budget printer models do not support the 5 GHz standard.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting setup, disable the VPN connection on your computer and temporarily pause your antivirus software if it's blocking the search for network devices. This is a common reason why the setup wizard can't detect the printer on the local network.
You'll also need to know your network name (SSID) and password to connect. If you've forgotten your password, you can find it in your router settings or on a sticker on the bottom of your ISP device. Write this information down or keep it handy so you don't have to interrupt the setup process.
Resetting the printer's network settings
If the printer was previously used or purchased from a store, it may have old network settings stored in its memory that will conflict with the current settings. HP DeskJet 2720 There's a simple button combination to reset network settings to factory defaults. This ensures the device will enter network search mode.
On the control panel, locate the wireless button (antenna) and the cancel button (cross). Press them simultaneously and hold for 3-5 seconds. The wireless indicator should start flashing, indicating a successful reset and entering setup mode.
Using the HP Smart app to set up
The most modern and convenient way to connect is to use proprietary software. HP SmartThis app automatically scans the network, finds compatible devices, and provides step-by-step instructions tailored to your operating system.
Download and install the app from the manufacturer's official website or from the Microsoft Store if you're using Windows 10/11. After launching the app, click the "Add Printer" button or the plus sign. The system will begin searching for devices within range.
When HP DeskJet 2720 appears in the list, select it. The app will ask for permission to transfer Wi-Fi settings from your computer to the printer. This is a secure process that uses a local network connection for quick configuration.
During the setup process, the program may offer to update the printer's firmware. Recommended agree to the update, as new firmware versions often contain connectivity bug fixes and improve connection stability.
Manual setup via control panel (WPS)
If installation via the application is not possible or causes errors, you can use the technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method allows you to connect your printer to your router without entering a password, simply by pressing a button on the router. This only works if your router supports this feature.
Press and hold the WPS button on your router for 3 seconds until the WPS indicator starts flashing. Then, within 2 minutes, press and hold the wireless button on the printer. HP DeskJet 2720 until the power indicator starts flashing.
The device will automatically exchange encryption keys and establish a connection. The wireless indicator on the printer should stop blinking and turn solid blue, indicating a successful connection to the local network.
| Indicator | State | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Wireless communication | Flashing blue | Setup mode, network search |
| Wireless communication | It's blue | Successful connection to Wi-Fi |
| Wireless communication | Flashing orange | Connection error or weak signal |
| Wireless communication | Turned off | Wireless connection is disabled |
Installing drivers and completing configuration
Once the printer is connected to the network, the computer's operating system may automatically detect it and install basic drivers. However, for full functionality of all features, including scanning and ink level monitoring, the full version of the drivers is required.
Go to Settings -> Devices -> Printers & Scanners in Windows. If the system finds HP DeskJet 2720, click "Remove device," and then "Add a printer or scanner." Windows will attempt to find the device on the network and install drivers.
For advanced features, visit the official support site, enter your printer model and download the full driver package. HP Full Feature SoftwareRunning the installer will automatically detect the printer on the network and complete the port configuration.
Diagnosis and solution of typical problems
Sometimes the connection process can be challenging. If the computer doesn't see the printer even though both devices are connected to the same network, check the network type in Windows. The network profile must be "Private," not "Public," otherwise the system will block device discovery.
Also make sure that printing services are active. Click Win + R, enter services.msc and find the Print Spooler service. It should be running and in automatic mode. If the service is stopped, network printing will not work.
⚠️ Attention: Third-party antivirus programs (Kaspersky, ESET, Avast) often have built-in firewalls that block the ports used by the HP printer. Try temporarily disabling your antivirus's firewall to check.
If the problem persists, you can run the built-in diagnostic tool. Go to Control Panel -> Devices and Printers, right-click the printer icon, and select "Troubleshoot." The system will attempt to automatically fix any driver or print queue errors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can the HP DeskJet 2720 connect to 5GHz Wi-Fi?
No, this model only supports the 802.11 b/g/n wireless standard, which operates in the 2.4 GHz band. If your router broadcasts a single network with a common name for both bands, try separating them in the router settings or connecting to a 2.4 GHz guest network.
How to find the IP address of a printer on the network?
Press and hold the wireless button on the printer for 5 seconds. The device will print a configuration report showing the current IP address. This information can also be found in the HP Smart app under Printer Information.
The printer is shown as "Offline", what should I do?
Uncheck "Work Offline" in the print queue menu. If this doesn't help, reboot your router and printer. Make sure the computer and printer are set to the same time, as time misalignment can cause security protocol errors.
Do I need a USB cable for initial setup?
For the HP DeskJet 2720, a USB cable is not required and is not even recommended for initial Wi-Fi setup. The entire configuration process is done over the air via the HP Smart app or the WPS button. A cable is only required for direct printing without a router.
Why is my printer printing slowly over Wi-Fi?
Print speed may be reduced by a weak Wi-Fi signal where the printer is installed or by other devices congesting the channel. Try moving the router closer to the printer or using a repeater to boost the signal in the area.