Modern peripherals eliminate cumbersome cables, providing easy access to printing from any device within the network. HP DeskJet 4720 is a prominent example of such compact solutions that support wireless communication technology. However, the initial activation of the function Wi-Fi often causes difficulties for users who encounter such equipment for the first time.
The setup process requires careful attention and careful sequence of steps, as the software must correctly pair the laptop and printer. In this article, we'll cover all possible synchronization methods in detail, including WPS, classic infrastructure mode, and direct connection.
Successful integration of the device into the home network opens access to cloud services and functions ePrint, which significantly expands the gadget's functionality. Get ready for work, check your laptop's battery, and make sure your router is working properly and providing a signal.
Equipment preparation and requirements verification
Before attempting any software manipulation, ensure that all system components are physically functioning properly. The printer must be plugged in and the cartridges installed in their slots. If an error indicator appears on the control panel, first troubleshoot the ink or paper issue.
It is important to know that HP DeskJet 4720 works exclusively in the range 2.4 GHzIf your router broadcasts a 5 GHz network with the same name (SSID), device search conflicts may occur. We recommend temporarily separating the network names in your router settings or ensuring your laptop is connected to the 2.4 GHz frequency.
⚠️ Important: Make sure that Airplane mode is not activated on your laptop and that your Wi-Fi adapter drivers are updated to the latest version available from the manufacturer.
It's also a good idea to have the USB cable that came with your device ready. You may need it for the initial transfer of network settings if the automatic search fails. A stable internet connection on your computer is also required for downloading drivers.
Reset network settings before connecting
If the printer was previously used on a different network or was purchased second-hand, it may have retained old connection settings. This often results in the device not appearing in the list of available devices when installing a new driver. In this case, you'll need to perform a forced reset of the network settings.
To do this, go to the control panel HP DeskJet 4720 Find the button with the antenna or wireless icon. Press and hold it along with the Cancel button (the cross) for 3-5 seconds. The power and wireless indicators should flash, indicating a factory reset.
After the reset, the wireless indicator will begin flashing blue, indicating it's in search mode or ready to pair. The device is now ready for the new settings and will not attempt to connect to previously known but unavailable access points.
WPS method: quick synchronization with the router
The easiest way to establish communication between devices without entering passwords is the technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method works if your router supports this feature and has a corresponding physical button or software switch in the interface.
Press and hold the WPS button on the router for a few seconds until the security light starts flashing. Then, within two minutes, press and hold the wireless button on the printer. HP DeskJet 4720 until the indicator starts flashing.
- 📡 The Wi-Fi indicator on the printer is flashing blue - it is searching for a network.
- 🔒 The security indicator on the router is on or flashing - the key exchange is in progress.
- ✅ The Wi-Fi indicator on the printer is solid blue - the connection is successful.
- ❌ The indicator flashes orange - connection error or incorrect PIN (if used).
The process takes no more than a minute. If the connection is established, the blue light will stop flashing and remain solid. This means the printer has received an IP address from the router and is ready to use.
Setup via USB cable (Infrastructure mode)
If the WPS method doesn't work or your router doesn't support it, use the classic method using a temporary cable connection. This method is considered the most reliable, as it allows the software to automatically transfer Wi-Fi settings from your computer to the printer.
You will need to download the full package of drivers and utilities from the manufacturer's official website. Select your model. DeskJet 4720 and your operating system. During installation, the program will prompt you to select a connection type—select "Wireless Connection."
When the installer prompts you to connect the device, connect the printer and laptop with a USB cable. The program will automatically recognize the device and send it the Wi-Fi network information (SSID and password) that your computer is already using.
☑️ Check before installing drivers
After transferring the settings, the program will prompt you to disconnect the cable. At this point, the printer switches to a wireless connection, and you can print wirelessly. Make sure the laptop and printer are on the same subnet.
Using Wi-Fi Direct to print without a router
A unique feature of the model HP DeskJet 4720 is technology support Wi-Fi DirectIt allows you to create a direct wireless connection between your laptop (or smartphone) and printer, bypassing your home router. This is ideal for printing documents when visiting a friend or in the office, where the main network is unavailable.
To activate the mode, press the Wi-Fi Direct button on the control panel. The printer will print an information page, including the network name (usually beginning with HP-Print-...) and the connection password. This password can also be found by holding down the information (i) button on the printer.
On your laptop, open the list of available Wi-Fi networks, find the network with your printer's name, and enter the password. After connecting, your computer's internet connection may be lost, as the device will be operating on an isolated network.
⚠️ Note: When connecting via Wi-Fi Direct, printing speed may be slower and some network scanning features may not be available compared to infrastructure mode.
This method is convenient because it's self-contained, but it doesn't allow you to access the internet and print simultaneously if your laptop only has one Wi-Fi adapter. You'll have to switch between networks manually.
Wireless Status Indicator Table
Understanding the signals your device emits helps you quickly diagnose problems. Control Panel HP DeskJet 4720 Equipped with informative LEDs that change color and flashing mode depending on the status.
| Indicator status | Color | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turned off | - | Wireless connection is disabled | Press the Wi-Fi button |
| Flashing | Blue | Search network or setup mode | Run the software installation |
| It's on fire | Blue | The connection is active and successful. | You can print |
| Flashing | Orange | Connection error or signal loss | Check your router and password |
If the indicator is orange, this often indicates that the printer is "seeing" the network but cannot authenticate. Check the correct password or encryption type (WPA2-PSK is the most compatible).
Installing drivers and completing configuration
The final step is installing the software that will allow the operating system to correctly interpret print commands. Even if Windows has found the device automatically, the full package HP Smart or classic drivers will provide access to all scanner functions.
Run the installation file and follow the on-screen instructions. The program will run diagnostics and confirm that the printer is found on the network. If the device is not found, select the "Printer not found" option and follow the prompts to manually search for the printer by IP address.
During the installation process, a firmware update may be required. Don't interrupt Do not turn off the printer during this process, as this may cause the device to malfunction. The update improves connection stability.
What should I do if my computer can't see my printer on the network?
Make sure AP Isolation isn't enabled in your router settings. Also, check that Windows Firewall isn't blocking the HP installation application. Try temporarily disabling your antivirus software.
After installation is complete, it's recommended to print a test page. This will confirm that the laptop-router-printer connection is working correctly and that data is being transferred without loss.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I connect my HP DeskJet 4720 to a hidden Wi-Fi network?
Yes, this is possible, but only via USB cable setup. Hidden networks (those without an SSID broadcast) will not be detected using automatic detection or WPS. You will need to manually enter the network name in the software settings.
My printer stopped responding to Wi-Fi after replacing my router. What should I do?
After replacing your router, the network name and password changed. You need to reset the printer's network settings (as described above) and reconnect using the new authentication details.
Does this model support printing from iPhone or Android?
Yes, model HP DeskJet 4720 Supports AirPrint for Apple devices and Mopria for Android devices. The HP Smart app is also available, allowing you to scan and print directly from your mobile phone.
What is the maximum Wi-Fi range for this printer?
The range depends on your router and obstacles in the room. In open spaces, the signal can be reliably maintained for up to 30 meters, but through concrete walls the range can be reduced to 10-15 meters.