Changing internet service providers, resetting a router, or simply changing a password often forces users to reconfigure all their home gadgets. Printers and multifunctional devices (MFPs) are particularly challenging, as connecting them to a wireless network isn't always intuitive, especially if they don't have a display. The process for updating network settings may vary depending on the device model and operating system you plan to use.
On most modern models, the procedure takes no more than five minutes, provided you know where to look for the necessary menu items. However, older or budget models may require a USB connection or the use of specialized utilities on a computer. The key point Here is the correct sequence of actions, the violation of which often leads to communication errors between the router and the printing device.
In this article, we'll cover all the current methods for changing your WiFi network, from using the buttons on the device to configuring it through the web interface. You'll learn how to avoid common mistakes and what to do if your printer stops detecting your access point after making changes to your router. Let's get ready for setup.
Preparing to change network settings
Before you begin the setup, you need to make sure your new network environment is fully operational. Printers, especially laser printers, are very sensitive to frequency bands. Most office and home models only support the standard. 2.4 GHz and don't see the network 5 GHz, which are often used by default in modern routers. If your router broadcasts a single network with aggregating frequencies, device detection may be difficult.
You'll also need to know the exact name of the new network (SSID) and the current password. Pay attention to the case: the letters "A" and "a" are treated as different characters by the device. If the password uses special characters, make sure you enter them correctly, switching keyboard layouts if necessary. Even a single character error will result in an infinite connection attempt loop.
⚠️ Please note: Some corporate networks use hidden SSIDs or MAC address filtering. In these cases, the standard connection procedure may not work without intervention from a system administrator.
For successful setup, it's also recommended to temporarily disable the VPN on the computer or smartphone you'll be using for management. VPNs can change network gateways and interfere with local printer discovery in shared spaces. Ensure the device is within a strong signal range, ideally no more than 3-5 meters from the router during initial setup.
Using the control panel on the printer body
The most common method of reconfiguring devices equipped with an LCD screen or a set of function buttons. The menu interface may vary between manufacturers, such as HP, Canon, Brother or Epson, but the logic remains the same. You need to find the section responsible for wireless connections.
Typically, the process involves navigating through a menu sequentially. For example, you need to press the button with an antenna or gear icon, then select "Network Settings" or "Wireless." Within this section, look for "Wireless Network Wizard" or "Wi-Fi Setup." After selecting this option, the printer will begin searching for available access points within range.
Once the list of networks appears on the screen, find the name of your router. If the network is hidden, you'll need to select "Enter network name manually" and enter the SSID using the navigation buttons. After selecting the network, the device will ask for the password. Enter it carefully, using the arrow keys to navigate through the characters. After confirmation, the printer will attempt to establish a connection.
- 📶 Find the wireless network icon on the home screen or in the device settings menu.
- 🔍 Select your new WiFi network from the list of available connections.
- 🔑 Enter your password, observing the letter case and the order of special characters.
- ✅ Wait for the successful connection message and check the signal indicator.
If a success message appears on the screen and the WiFi indicator lights up steadily (not blinking), then network settings The settings have been applied. Now you can test printing from your computer. If you make an error, re-enter the password or make sure your router isn't blocking new devices.
☑️ Checking the connection via the panel
Setup via USB cable and computer
If your printer doesn't have a screen or it's difficult to use, the most reliable connection method is via a USB cable. This method is often referred to as a "wired wireless network setup." It requires an installation disc or a full driver package downloaded from the manufacturer's official website. This method is ideal for entry-level models, such as the HP DeskJet or Canon PIXMA.
Connect the printer to your computer using a USB cable and turn on the device. Run the installation program. During the installation, the wizard will prompt you to select a connection type. Even if the cable is connected, select "Wireless" or "Wi-Fi." The program will automatically detect that the device is connected via USB and offer to transfer your computer's network settings to it.
The system will copy the current WiFi network settings (SSID and password) from your Windows or macOS settings and transfer them to the printer. After the data is successfully transferred, the program will prompt you to disconnect the USB cable. At this point, the printer should switch to wireless communication. This method is advantageous because it eliminates the risk of manual password entry errors.
Sequence of actions:1. Connect USB.
2. Run Setup.exe.
3. Select "Wireless connection".
4. Follow the wizard's instructions.
5. Disconnect the cable as requested by the program.
It's important to note that the computer and printer must be on the same subnet during the settings transfer. If you have a complex network infrastructure with guest networks, make sure the PC is connected to the primary network segment where the printer will be transferred. After disconnecting the cable, the WiFi indicator on the device should light up.
⚠️ Important: When using the USB cable method, do not disconnect the cable prematurely until the installation program explicitly instructs you to do so. Disconnecting it prematurely may interrupt the transfer of configuration files.
WPS method: quick connection without password
Technology Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) Allows you to connect devices to the network without entering a password, simply by pressing a button. This is one of the fastest methods if your router and printer support this feature. A router usually has a physical button with a corresponding label, while a printer may have a separate button or a combination of the two.
To activate the mode, press the WPS button on the router (sometimes you need to hold it for 2-3 seconds). Then, within two minutes, press the same button on the printer or select "WPS" in the device's wireless network menu. The printer and router will automatically exchange encryption keys.
This method is convenient for its simplicity, but it has security limitations. If your network uses a complex encryption protocol or is hidden, WPS may not work. Furthermore, some modern routers have this feature disabled by default for security reasons, so you may need to enable it in the router's web interface beforehand.
- 🔘 Press the WPS button on your wireless router.
- ⏱️ Press the wireless button on the printer within 2 minutes.
- 🔄 Wait until the indicators on both devices stop flashing.
- 📄 Print a test page to check the connection.
If the LEDs blink excessively or turn red, pairing was unsuccessful. Try repeating the process closer to the router. Make sure MAC address filtering isn't enabled on the router, as this can block automatic connections from new devices, even via WPS.
Resetting the printer's network settings
Sometimes a printer gets stuck in old configurations and refuses to accept new settings, especially if you've upgraded to a different router model or changed the encryption type. In these cases, a full reset of the network settings to factory defaults is necessary. This won't delete your computer drivers, but it will clear the printer's memory of all known WiFi networks.
The reset procedure varies. On devices with a display, this is usually the "Restore network settings" option in the menu. On models without a display, a button combination is often used: for example, pressing the "Wireless" and "Cancel" buttons simultaneously for 3-5 seconds until the lights flash. For some models HP And Xerox It may be necessary to remove the cartridge with the power on.
After the reset, the printer will enter Setup Mode and be detectable as a new device. The computer will see it as "Unknown Device" or by its model name followed by "Network." You can now rerun the setup wizard and enter the new network information from scratch.
| Printer brand | Network reset method | Success indicator |
|---|---|---|
| HP | WiFi button + Cancel (5 sec) | Both indicators are flashing |
| Canon | Direct link button (1 sec) | The power light is blinking |
| Epson | Menu → Network → Reset | Message on the screen |
| Brother | Menu → Network → Network Reset | The screen turns off and on |
| Pantum | Hold the WiFi button (10 sec) | Sound signal |
Please note that after resetting, you will need to re-add the printer to the operating system if automatic detection fails. Remove the old device from the "Printers & Scanners" list in Windows or macOS before reinstalling to avoid driver conflicts.
What to do if resetting doesn't help?
If even a full reset of network settings prevents the printer from detecting the router, the issue may be related to incompatible security standards. Try temporarily setting the router to Mixed Mode for WPA/WPA2 protocols. Also, check if there's a limit on the number of connected clients in the router's DHCP server settings.
Common mistakes and how to solve them
Even if you strictly follow the instructions, unexpected situations may arise. One of the most common issues is that the printer sees the network but won't connect. This is often due to a MAC address filter being enabled on the router. You need to find the printer's MAC address (usually on a sticker on the back or in the configuration report) and add it to the whitelist of allowed devices in the router settings.
Another common error is the wrong encryption type. Older printers may not support the standard. WPA3, which is being implemented in new routers. In this case, you need to go to the router settings and switch the wireless network security mode to WPA2-PSK (AES)This is the most compatible standard at the moment.
If the printer connects but the computer doesn't see it, check if Client Isolation is enabled on your router. This prevents devices on the same WiFi network from communicating with each other, making printing impossible. Also, make sure Windows Firewall isn't blocking incoming connections for the print service.
⚠️ Note: Router interfaces and printer firmware are regularly updated. Menu items may have different names or be moved. If you can't find an exact match, search for synonyms or consult the documentation for your specific model.
In some cases, assigning a static IP address can help. If the router's DHCP server frequently changes the printer's address, the computer may lose connection. Assigning the IP address to the printer's MAC address in the router settings will ensure a stable connection. This is especially important for office printing, where the job queue must remain uninterrupted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to change the WiFi network on a printer without a computer?
Yes, if your printer has a screen and navigation buttons, you can configure all settings directly from the device's control panel. Many modern models also support configuration via the manufacturer's mobile app (e.g., HP Smart, Epson iPrint, Canon PRINT), which transfers WiFi settings from your smartphone to the printer via Bluetooth or a direct WiFi connection.
My printer stopped printing after changing my router. What should I do?
Most likely, the printer is trying to connect to the old network or is using the old IP address. You need to reset the printer's network settings and reconnect it to the new router using one of the methods described above. After this, you may need to remove the old printer from the system and add it as a new device.
Does my printer support 5GHz network?
Most office and budget home printers only support the 2.4 GHz band. 5 GHz support is less common, primarily found in premium MFPs. If your router only broadcasts 5 GHz, the printer won't see the network. Enable a 2.4 GHz guest network or separate the bands in your router settings.
How do I find my printer's IP address after changing my network?
On devices with a display, the IP address can be found in the network menu or configuration report. On models without a display, printing a test page with a key combination (for example, holding down the Cancel or Info button) often helps. The IP address is also displayed in the list of connected clients in your router's web interface.