Changing a router or updating a home network password often requires users to reconfigure connected peripherals. Printers Hewlett-Packard are no exception: to restore wireless printing functionality, the device must be given new access credentials. The process may seem complicated at first glance, but knowing the correct algorithms allows you to complete the task in just a few minutes.
There are several proven methods for performing this operation, each depending on your device model and the cable you have available. Modern touchscreen models simplify the process, while budget options may require a USB cable or WPS. It's important to understand which control interface is available on your device to choose the best option.
In this article, we'll cover all possible connection options in detail, address error diagnostics, and answer frequently asked questions. You'll learn not only how to enter a new password but also how to properly reset old network settings, which is often key to a successful completion of the process.
Preparing equipment and resetting old settings
Before changing network settings, make sure the printer is ready for use. Make sure the device is turned on and in standby mode, not in deep sleep. If the printer was previously connected to another network that you've already changed or deleted, it may attempt to reconnect to a nonexistent signal, which will cause interference.
To ensure a clean experiment and avoid IP address conflicts, we recommend resetting your network settings to factory defaults. This won't affect your personal files or print quality settings; it will only clear saved WiFi profiles. On most models, this can be done via the menu or a button combination.
If your device has a display, look for the "Network" menu or the wireless icon. The "Restore Network Settings" option is often hidden in the menu. Clicking this will reset the WiFi module to its default state, ready to search for new routers. This is especially useful if your printer is stuck trying to connect to an old access point.
⚠️ AttentionAfter resetting the network settings, the printer may automatically enter setup mode or create its own temporary network with a name like "HP-Setup-Printer." This is normal behavior and indicates the device is ready for a new configuration.
Make sure your new router is already configured and broadcasting a signal. Printers HP, like most office equipment, operate exclusively within the range 2.4 GHzIf your router only broadcasts the network 5 GHz or uses the "5 GHz only" mode, the device simply won't see the signal no matter how hard you try to find it.
Direct configuration method via control panel
The most intuitive way to change WiFi is for models equipped with a color touchscreen or a screen with navigation buttons. The interface may vary slightly depending on the series. LaserJet or DeskJet, but the logic remains the same. You'll need to find the wireless network icon, which usually looks like an antenna or a globe.
After entering the wireless menu, select "Wireless Network Setup" or "Setup Wizard." The printer will begin scanning for available networks within range. Find your router's name (SSID) in the list that appears. If the network is hidden, select "Enter the network name manually" and enter the name exactly, maintaining capitalization.
The next step is entering your password. The on-screen keyboard can be difficult to use with long combinations, so be patient. After entering the password, tap "Done" or "Apply." The device will attempt to establish a connection, which can take up to two minutes. A successful connection is usually confirmed by the WiFi indicator flashing blue and then solid blue.
For devices without a touchscreen but with a monochrome display and arrow keys, navigation is via the "Settings" menu (gear icon). Go to "Network" -> "Wireless" -> "Setup Wizard." The rest of the steps are the same: select a network and enter the password.
Using a USB cable for initial setup
If entering a password through the printer's small menu seems too complicated or the device's screen isn't working, a USB cable can help. This method is often called "wired connection for WiFi setup." It allows the computer to transfer network credentials directly to the printer, bypassing the printer's cumbersome interface.
First, you'll need to download the full software from the manufacturer's official website. Avoid using the basic drivers built into Windows, as they may not include the network setup wizard. Run the installation file and follow the on-screen instructions until you're prompted to select a connection type.
Select "Wireless Connection" or "WiFi," but when prompted to connect a cable, connect the printer and computer with a USB cable. The software will automatically detect the device and offer to transfer your current WiFi network settings. Once the data transfer is successful, the program will notify you that the cable can be disconnected.
☑️ USB Setup Checklist
This method is especially effective when entering a complex password with special characters that is difficult to type on a printer. The computer will transmit all data in the correct format, eliminating the possibility of human typing error.
Connecting via Wi-Fi Direct technology
Technology Wi-Fi Direct Allows you to connect mobile devices and laptops directly to the printer, without a router. This is ideal if your main internet router is temporarily down or you're out of the office. The printer then becomes an access point.
To activate this mode, press the smartphone button or the Wi-Fi Direct icon on the device's panel. If nothing appears on the screen, hold the wireless button for a few seconds until the indicator light starts flashing. The device will create a network with a name that includes the printer model, for example, HP-DeskJet-2700.
The connection password is usually displayed on the printer screen or printed on an information page. To print such a page, press and hold the "Information" button (the "i" icon) for 3 seconds. In the resulting document, look for the line "Wi-Fi Direct Password."
⚠️ AttentionWhen connecting via Wi-Fi Direct, your computer or phone may lose internet access as it switches to a direct connection to the printer. To get back online, you'll need to manually switch back to your home Wi-Fi.
This mode can also be used as an intermediate step: by connecting to the printer directly via your phone, you can use a special application HP Smart Reconfigure it to your main router if the printer control panel does not function correctly.
Setup via the HP Smart app
The most modern and convenient way to control peripherals is to use an application HP Smart for smartphones or PCs. It's available in the App Store, Google Play, and Microsoft Store. The app automatically detects printers on your local network and helps you set them up from scratch.
Launch the app and click the Add New Printer button (usually a big plus). 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 WiFi network from the list and enter the password. The app will automatically transfer this information to the device.
If the printer was previously connected to the network but you changed the router, the app may prompt you to "Change WiFi settings" in the device settings. Follow the on-screen prompts. The app also allows you to run diagnostics: it will check whether the printer can see the network and whether the password is correct.
It is important to note that for the application to work HP Smart Geolocation and Bluetooth must be enabled on your phone. This is necessary for the device to be detected during the initial setup process, especially on Android devices.
Table of indicators and their meanings
Understanding the indicator lights helps you quickly diagnose the connection status. Different models may use slightly different color coding, but the general principles remain the same.
| Indicator | State | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Blue (permanent) | It's on fire | Successfully connected to WiFi, ready to print |
| Blue (flashing) | Flashing | Setup mode, searching for network or waiting for connection |
| Orange/Amber | On/Blinking | Network error, weak signal or incorrect password |
| Turned off | It doesn't burn. | The WiFi module is turned off or the device is sleeping |
If the indicator is orange, it almost always indicates an authentication issue. Check to see if the router password has changed or if you're using MAC filtering, which is blocking new devices.
Solving common connection problems
Even with the correct steps, technical difficulties can arise. One of the most common problems is the printer not detecting the 5 GHz network. As mentioned earlier, most models HP Only support the 802.11 b/g/n (2.4 GHz) standard. You need to go to your router settings and make sure the 2.4 GHz network is active and has a separate name (SSID) if the router combines them into one.
Another common error is an incorrect date and time on the router or printer. For secure connections (WPA2/WPA3), it's critical that the time on the devices be synchronized. If the printer's date is incorrect, the security certificates may be invalidated, and the connection will fail.
What should I do if the printer sees the network but doesn't connect?
Try temporarily disabling MAC address filtering on your router. You can also try reducing the router's signal strength or changing the WiFi channel to 1, 6, or 11, as some older printer modules don't work well with automatic channel selection.
If all else fails, perform a full network reset. On many models, this can be done by simultaneously pressing the "Wireless" and "Cancel" (X) buttons for 3-5 seconds. Then, run the setup wizard again.
⚠️ AttentionRouter interfaces and printer firmware are subject to update. If the menu items described differ, please refer to the documentation for your specific model or the official support website, as the layout of functions may change in new software versions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I reset network settings on an HP printer without a screen?
On models without a display, locate the wireless button and the "Cancel" button (usually with a red X). Press them simultaneously and hold for about 3-5 seconds until the power button or wireless indicator starts flashing. This will reset the network settings to factory defaults.
My HP printer won't connect to WiFi, even though the password is correct. What's wrong?
A common cause is the use of special characters in the password, which the printer interprets incorrectly, or the router is operating in "5 GHz Only" mode. Try temporarily simplifying the password (using only letters and numbers) and ensure that the 2.4 GHz band is enabled on the router.
Is it possible to change the WiFi on an HP printer using a phone?
Yes, it is possible through the app. HP SmartTo do this, your phone must be connected to the WiFi network you want to connect the printer to. The app will transmit network data directly to the device.
What does the blinking blue light on my printer mean?
A blinking blue light means the WiFi module is enabled, but the printer isn't connected to any networks. It's either waiting for a connection or attempting to reconnect to a known but currently unavailable network.