Changing your internet provider or installing a new router often requires reconfiguring all your home devices, including your printer. If your HP printer If your router has stopped responding to print commands, it's likely simply lost connection to the wireless network due to a password or router name change. Restoring the connection doesn't require calling a technician, as modern models allow you to perform this procedure yourself in just a few minutes.
The reconnection process depends on the specific device model and whether it has a touchscreen. Owners of office multifunctional devices will encounter a menu on the device's body, while compact home models will most often require the use of a smartphone with an app installed. HP SmartIt's important to prepare a new Wi-Fi password in advance, as it will be needed during the setup process to authorize the device on the new network.
There are several proven methods for restoring the connection, each with its own peculiarities. You can use a temporary USB connection, Wi-Fi Direct mode, or the classic setup via the WPS button on the router. The optimal method depends on how far away from the router you are located. printer and do you have a computer with a cable at hand.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before beginning the procedure, make sure the printer is turned on and ready to use. If any error lights are illuminated on the panel or the wireless icon is blinking, you may need to reset the network settings first. For most HP models, this is done by simultaneously pressing the Wireless and Cancel (or Resume) buttons for a few seconds until the power light begins blinking.
It's important to know your network type, as older printer models may not support the 5 GHz frequency. If your new router only broadcasts a 5 GHz signal and your printer only supports 2.4 GHz, the devices won't be able to see each other. In this case, you'll need to access your router settings and enable a guest network or a separate SSID for the 2.4 GHz band.
⚠️ Important: Make sure that the AP Isolation feature is disabled on your router, otherwise the printer will be connected to Wi-Fi, but your computer will not be able to send a document to it.
It's also worth checking the device's firmware if it was previously connected to the internet. Updated software often contains fixes for new security standards used by modern routers. You can check the firmware version through the printer's web interface or in the menu on the device under "Settings" → "Maintenance."
Using the HP Smart app to change networks
The most universal and modern way of reconfiguration is a mobile application HP SmartIt's available for iOS and Android, and also has a desktop version for Windows and macOS. This method is ideal when you can't connect the printer to your computer via a cable, and all setup is done over the air.
To get started, remove the old device from the printer list in the app if it's shown as offline. Then, click the Add New Printer button. The app will prompt you to put the printer into setup mode, which is typically done by long-pressing the wireless button on the printer until the indicator light starts blinking.
- 📱 Launch the HP Smart app and sign in to your HP account.
- 🔘 Click "Add Printer" or the plus icon in the corner of the screen.
- 📶 Select your printer from the list of detected devices.
- 🔑 Enter the password for the new Wi-Fi network when the app asks for it.
During the setup process, the app will transfer the new network settings directly to the printer. If the device takes a long time to find the network, try moving closer to the router. Once successfully connected, the wireless indicator on the printer will stop flashing and turn solid blue, indicating successful authorization to the new network.
Setup via USB cable and computer
If wireless setup via phone is difficult, the classic USB cable method remains the most reliable. You'll need a computer with the drivers or full software package installed. HPThis method ensures stable transmission of configuration data even with a weak Wi-Fi signal.
Connect the printer to your computer using a USB cable. Run the driver installation program, which can be downloaded from the official support website, selecting your model. During the installation, select "Convert USB connection to wireless" or "Set up a wireless network connection."
The setup wizard will automatically detect available networks and prompt you to select your new access point. All you need to do is enter the password. After transferring the settings, the program will prompt you to disconnect the USB cable, as future printing will be done via Wi-Fi.
☑️ Preparing for USB connection
It's worth noting that some models require a complete uninstall of the old software before reinstalling. If the installation is interrupted or the computer doesn't detect the printer, use the utility. HP Print and Scan Doctor to clear the system of old device profiles.
WPS method: quick connection without password
Technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) allows you to connect your printer to your router without manually entering a password. This method works if your router has a physical WPS button or a corresponding function in the web interface. This is one of the fastest methods if you're close to the router.
On the printer control panel, press the wireless button or go to the network settings menu. Look for "Wi-Fi Protected Setup" or the icon that resembles two arrows forming a circle. Press "Start" or "Push Button" on the printer screen.
Within two minutes, press the WPS button on the router. The devices will automatically exchange encryption keys. This process typically takes no more than a minute, after which the printer's Ready indicator will light.
⚠️ Note: The WPS method will not work if this feature is disabled in the router's security settings or if the encryption type used does not support WPS.
If the automatic connection doesn't occur, check whether the network timeout has occurred. On some HP models, you need to activate WPS search mode through the Network Settings menu, not just the button on the device.
Manual setup via the printer control panel
Models with a color touch screen, such as the series HP Envy or OfficeJet Pro, allow you to enter network parameters directly. This is convenient if you don't have a smartphone or computer at hand. The interface may differ, but the logic remains the same for all devices with a display.
Tap the wireless icon or go to the Settings menu (gear icon). Select "Network" or "Wireless Settings." In the list that appears, find "Wireless Setup Wizard."
The printer will begin searching for available networks. Select the name of your new router from the list. If the network is hidden, select "Enter the network name manually" and enter the SSID. You will then be prompted to enter the password using the on-screen virtual keyboard.
| Printer model | Path to the menu | Peculiarity |
|---|---|---|
| HP DeskJet 2700 | i button → Network settings | Pairing mode required |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 9010 | Settings (gear) → Network | 5 GHz support |
| HP LaserJet MFP | Network Setup → Wireless | IP input is required for static |
| HP Smart Tank | Wireless menu → Settings | Dual-band mode |
What to do if the printer does not see the network?
Make sure your router isn't hiding the SSID. If it is, select the option to manually enter the name. Also, check if your router has a MAC address filter that's blocking new devices.
After entering the information, the printer will attempt to establish a connection. If the password is entered correctly, a success message will appear on the screen, and the device will print a network report page showing the new IP address.
Solving common connection problems
Even if you follow the instructions correctly, technical difficulties may arise. Often, the problem lies in the frequency range: the printer sees the 2.4 GHz network, but the router broadcasts the same network name for both bands, causing confusion. In this case, it is recommended to separate the network names in the router settings.
Another common cause is a full printer network settings buffer. Perform a full network reset. For models without a display, this can be done using a key combination; for models with a display, use the "Restore Settings" → "Reset Network Settings" menu.
- 🔄 Restart your router and printer at the same time.
- 📡 Check if there is a MAC address filter on your router.
- 🔐 Make sure the encryption type is WPA2-AES.
- 📶 Make sure the Wi-Fi signal is strong enough where the printer is installed.
If the printer is connected but the system status is "Offline", try removing the device from the list of printers in the operating system and adding it again using a new IP address or automatic search.
Keep in mind that antivirus software or firewall software on your computer may also block the printer from being detected on the new network. Try temporarily disabling the protection or adding an exception for HP printing services during setup.
Can I connect my HP printer to a 5GHz network?
Most budget and older models only support the 2.4 GHz band. Newer OfficeJet Pro and LaserJet series models can operate in both bands. Check your model's specifications on the official website, looking for support for the 802.11ac standard.
What should I do if my printer doesn't find the new network?
Make sure your router isn't using a hidden SSID. If the network is hidden, choose to enter the name manually. Also, check that your router doesn't have a MAC address filter blocking new devices, and that the distance between devices doesn't exceed acceptable limits.
Do I need to reinstall drivers after changing Wi-Fi?
Usually, updating the print port in the printer properties or deleting the device and re-adding it through Devices and Printers is sufficient. A complete driver reinstallation is only necessary in cases of serious software conflicts.
How to find out the printer's IP address after connection?
Press the Wireless button or the Information (i) button on the printer to print a network configuration report. The IP address will be listed in the IPv4 section. You can also find it in the HP Smart app under device settings.