Changing internet service providers, purchasing a new router, or simply changing the wireless network password often forces users to reconfigure their connected peripherals. For owners of printing equipment Hewlett-Packard This process may seem complicated, especially if your device does not have a touchscreen. However, changing Wi-Fi network On an HP printer, this is a standard procedure that can be performed in several ways depending on the model of your device and its equipment.
In this article, we'll cover all available reconnection methods in detail, from using the buttons on the printer's housing to setting up a USB cable. You'll learn how to properly reset network settings, avoid common errors, and ensure a stable connection between your computer and printer. Wireless connection requires accurate data entry, so please follow the instructions carefully.
Before you begin, make sure your router is turned on and broadcasting a signal, and you know the current password for the new network. It's also worth checking whether your printer supports the frequency range the new router uses, as older models may not be able to see the network. 5 GHz.
⚠️ Note: The menu interface and button layout may vary slightly depending on the firmware version and specific printer series (DeskJet, Envy, LaserJet). Always consult the official documentation for your device.
Preparing to reconfigure your wireless connection
Before changing settings, it's important to take some preparatory steps. This will help avoid situations where the printer isn't recognized by the router or can't connect due to an IP address conflict. First, make sure you're in a strong signal area.
The second important step is knowing the exact name of your network (SSID) and password. Passwords are case-sensitive, so make sure you use the correct uppercase and lowercase letters and special characters. If you're using a complex security system, you may need to temporarily simplify the password to successfully configure it.
- 📶 Make sure the router is turned on and the Wi-Fi lights are on or blinking.
- 🔑 Prepare the password for the new network in text format so you can copy it or quickly rewrite it.
- 📱 Prepare a smartphone or laptop that is already connected to the new Wi-Fi network.
- 🔌 If possible, unplug the printer for 10-15 seconds before starting the procedure.
It's also worth checking whether client isolation mode or MAC filtering are enabled on your router, which could block new devices from connecting. Most home networks have these features disabled by default, but they're common in office networks.
⚠️ Note: Some corporate networks use hidden SSIDs or special security certificates. In these cases, the standard connection procedure may not work without assistance from a system administrator.
WPS method: the fastest way to connect
Technology Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) Allows you to connect your printer to your router without manually entering a password. This method is ideal if you don't have a keyboard handy or are worried about making a mistake when entering a complex combination of characters. Most modern HP routers and printers support this feature.
First, find the WPS button on your router. It may be a physical button on the router itself or a software button in the administrator interface. Your HP printer should also have a corresponding button, often marked with a wireless network icon or a separate "WPS" label.
The process is simple: press and hold the WPS button on the router for 2-3 seconds until the indicator light flashes. Then, within two minutes, press the wireless button on the printer. The devices will find each other and automatically exchange encryption keys.
☑️ WPS Readiness Check
Once the connection is successful, the wireless indicator on the printer will stop blinking and turn solid blue. This means that IP address received and a connection has been established. If the blinking continues for more than 2 minutes, the connection has not been established, and the procedure must be repeated.
What to do if WPS doesn't work?
The WPS function may be disabled in your router's security settings. Access the router's web interface (usually at 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1) and check if WPS is enabled. This method also won't work if the router only uses WEP encryption (an outdated standard) or if you're trying to connect to a guest network.
Setting up via the printer control panel
If your printer has a color display or a set of buttons with a screen, you can change the network directly from the device. This method is the most versatile and doesn't require a computer. The menu names may vary, but the logic remains the same for all models. HP OfficeJet, HP ENVY And HP LaserJet.
Click the wireless icon or go to the settings section. Find "Wireless Network Setup" or "Setup Wizard." The system will search for available networks within range.
Select the name of your new network from the list. If the network is hidden, select "Enter network name manually" and enter the SSID exactly as it is set in the router. After selecting the network, the device will ask for a password.
- 🖊️ Please enter your password carefully, using Shift to capitalize letters if necessary.
- 👁️ Use the "Show Password" function (if available) to check that you entered the characters correctly.
- 🔄 If the connection fails, try moving closer to the router.
After entering the password, the printer will attempt to establish a connection. This process may take up to a minute. A successful connection is confirmed by a message on the screen and a lit Wi-Fi indicator. Now you can print wirelessly from any device on this network.
Using a USB cable for initial setup
When the printer's wireless menu is missing or inconvenient, and WPS doesn't work, a trusty USB cable comes to the rescue. This method is often referred to as "wired Wi-Fi setup." You'll need a computer with installed drivers or access to the full HP software suite.
Connect the printer to your computer via a USB cable. Run the driver installation program (HP Smart or the full driver package from the manufacturer's website). During the installation, select "Wireless" or "Wi-Fi" as the connection type.
The program will detect the printer via USB and offer to transfer the Wi-Fi settings from the computer it's connected to. This is a very convenient method, as you don't need to enter a password on the printer's small screen or use buttons.
| Setup stage | User action | Expected result |
|---|---|---|
| Connection | Connect the PC and printer with a USB cable | The computer recognizes the device |
| Launching the software | Open HP Smart or Driver Installer | A new device setup window will appear. |
| Network selection | Select your Wi-Fi network from the list | Proceed to password entry (if necessary) |
| Data transfer | Click "Continue" or "Configure" | The printer receives data and disconnects USB |
After successfully transferring the settings, the program will prompt you to disconnect the USB cable. The printer will automatically switch to wireless mode. If this doesn't happen, check that the blue wireless indicator is lit.
⚠️ Important: Do not turn off the printer or computer while transferring settings via USB. Interrupting the process may cause the printer's network module to freeze and require a full reboot.
Setup via the HP Smart mobile app
Modern smartphones allow you to control peripherals without a computer. The application HP Smart Available for iOS and Android, it's the primary tool for configuring new printer models. This is especially important if the printer doesn't have a screen.
First, make sure your smartphone is connected to the Wi-Fi network you want to connect the printer to. Open the HP Smart app and tap "Add Printer" or the plus sign. The app will begin searching for devices.
If the printer is in setup mode (blue indicator flashing), the app will prompt you to set it up. You'll need to select your network from the list (it's already known to your phone), and the app will automatically transfer the password to the printer.
- 📲 Download the official HP Smart app from the App Store or Google Play.
- 🔦 Turn on Bluetooth and geolocation on your smartphone to search for the printer.
- 🔌 Make sure the printer is in setup mode (often this requires holding down the Wi-Fi button and the Cancel button at the same time).
This method is considered the most convenient for home users, as it minimizes manual data entry. The app also allows you to perform a test print or scan of a document immediately after setup.
Resetting network settings and troubleshooting
Sometimes the printer "remembers" old errors or incorrect settings, which prevents it from connecting to a new network. In such cases, you need to reset network settings Factory reset. This won't delete your documents from memory, but it will reset your Wi-Fi settings to their default values.
On most HP models, this is done with a button combination. Typically, you need to press and hold the wireless button and the "Cancel" button (the cross) simultaneously for 3-5 seconds. The power and wireless lights may flash, indicating the reset.
After the reset, the printer will enter setup mode and can be connected as a new device using any of the methods described above. If the issue persists, check to see if you're using MAC filtering on your router.
How to find out the printer's IP address after connection?
To verify that the printer has received an address, print a network configuration report. This is typically done by pressing the "Information" (i) button or the "Wireless" + "Print" button combination. The report will contain the IP address, which can be entered into a browser to access the printer's web interface.
The printer sees the 2.4 GHz network, but not the 5 GHz one. Why?
Many HP printer models, especially those released several years ago, only support the 2.4 GHz frequency band. If your router broadcasts networks with the same name (SSID) for both bands, the printer may become confused. We recommend separating the networks in your router settings by giving them different names, such as "HomeWiFi" and "HomeWiFi_5G," and connecting the printer to the 2.4 GHz network.
What does the flashing blue light mean?
A blinking blue wireless indicator light indicates the printer is in setup mode and ready to connect, but the connection has not yet been established. A solid blue light indicates a successful connection. A white or orange indicator light may indicate an error or Bluetooth mode (depending on the model).
If none of these methods help, try updating the printer firmware via USB cable by downloading the latest version from the official website. Outdated device software may not work correctly with new router security standards.