How to enable Wi-Fi Direct on an HP printer: instructions for all models

Wireless printing via Wi-Fi Direct - this is a convenient way to connect a printer HP to a smartphone, tablet, or laptop without a router. This technology creates a direct network between devices, which is especially useful in offices with limited Wi-Fi access or at home without a stable internet connection. However, many users encounter difficulties during initial setup: where to find the function in the menu, how to connect from a phone, why the printer isn't visible in the list of devices.

In this article we will look at Unique features of Wi-Fi Direct activation on HP printers of different series (OfficeJet, LaserJet, Envy, DeskJet), including hidden settings that the manufacturer doesn't always mention in official manuals. You'll learn how to avoid common errors (such as conflicts with an existing Wi-Fi network) and set up printing from Android/iOS without any extra software. And if your model doesn't support this feature, we'll suggest alternative wireless connection methods.

What is Wi-Fi Direct and why is it needed on an HP printer?

Wi-Fi Direct — is a wireless communication standard that allows devices to connect directly, bypassing a router. For printers HP The technology solves three key problems:

• 📱 Printing from mobile devices without connecting to a public Wi-Fi network (ideal for guest areas or offices with limited access).
• 🖥️ Connecting multiple gadgets simultaneously (up to 5 devices, depending on the printer model).
• 🔒 Increased security: The connection is protected by a password generated by the printer (unlike open public networks).

This technology differs from classic Wi-Fi in that the printer itself becomes an access point. This means:

• ✅ You don't need to know your router password.
• ✅ Works even without the Internet.
• ⚠️ But the data transfer speed may be lower than in a regular Wi-Fi network (up to 25 Mbps against 100+ Mbps in modern routers).

Important: not all models HP support Wi-Fi Direct. This feature is available in most printers released after 2015, but in budget series (for example, HP DeskJet 2600) it may not be there. You can check compatibility by the marking on the case (look for the logo) Wi-Fi Direct) or in the technical specifications on the manufacturer's website.

Supported HP printer models with Wi-Fi Direct

Function Wi-Fi Direct available in most modern printers HP, but there are nuances depending on the series. Below is a table of popular models and their features:

If your model is not listed in the table, check for Wi-Fi Direct support as follows:

1. Click the button Information (ⓘ) on the printer panel.
2. Find the section Network settings or Wireless.
3. Search for the item Wi-Fi Direct or Direct connection.

⚠️ Attention: On some printers HP the function can be called HP Wireless Direct or Wi-Fi Peer-to-PeerThis is the same as Wi-Fi Direct, but with a brand name from the manufacturer.

Step-by-step instructions: how to enable Wi-Fi Direct on an HP printer

The activation process varies by printer model, but the general procedure is the same. Below is a general guide that takes into account the nuances for different series.

Step 1: Preparing the Printer

Before enabling Wi-Fi Direct:

Make sure the printer is turned on and in standby mode (not printing)|Check the ink/toner levels (if low, the function may be locked)|Disconnect the printer from the USB or Ethernet cable (if connected)|Place the printer and the connecting device within 2 meters (for the first connection)-->

Step 2: Activate Wi-Fi Direct via Control Panel

The menu interface varies depending on the series. Choose your option:

For printers with a touch screen (OfficeJet Pro 9010, Envy 6000, Tango X):

1. Click the icon Settings (gear) on the main screen.
2. Select Net → Wi-Fi Direct.
3. Activate the function with the switch (you may be asked to confirm).
4. Remember or write down network name (SSID) And password, generated by the printer.

For printers with push-button control (LaserJet Pro M426, DeskJet 3700):

1. Click the button Wireless (antenna icon) and hold for 3 seconds.
2. Use the arrow keys to select Wi-Fi Direct → On.
3. Click OK to confirm. The password will be displayed on the screen or printed automatically.

For older models (OfficeJet 6900, LaserJet P1102w):

1. Press and hold the button Wi-Fi and the button Cancel simultaneously for 5 seconds.
2. Wait for the indicator to flash Wireless network (may take up to 30 seconds).
3. The default password is - 12345678 (if not changed manually).

Step 3: Connecting the device (smartphone, laptop, PC)

After activating Wi-Fi Direct on the printer, connect the gadget to it:

For Android/iOS:

1. Open Wi-Fi settings on your phone.
2. Find the network with the name DIRECT-xx-HP-[printer model] (For example, DIRECT-72-HP-OfficeJet-9010).
3. Enter the password generated by the printer.
4. Launch the application HP Smart (download in Google Play or App Store) or use the standard print function.

For Windows/macOS:

1. Connect to the Wi-Fi Direct network as you would a regular access point.
2. Install the printer driver from the official website HP (if not installed).
3. Add a printer via Control Panel → Devices and Printers → Add a printer.

⚠️ Attention: Once connected to Wi-Fi Direct, your device will lose internet access (unless it's using a mobile network). To regain access, disconnect from the printer's network or configure traffic separation in the Wi-Fi settings (on Android this is called Advanced settings → Allow internet connection).

Common problems and their solutions

Even after Wi-Fi Direct is configured correctly, errors may still occur. Here are the most common ones and how to fix them:

Problem	Possible cause	Solution
The printer is not visible in the Wi-Fi list.	The function is disabled or the printer is in sleep mode.	Wake up the printer (press any button), check that Wi-Fi Direct is enabled in the menu
Incorrect password when connecting	The password changed after rebooting the printer.	Check your current password in the menu Wi-Fi Direct or reset network settings
There is a connection, but printing does not work.	Drivers not installed or IP address conflict	Install the driver from the website HP or assign a static IP manually
Low data transfer rate	Interference from other wireless devices	Move the printer closer to the device or change the Wi-Fi channel in the settings

If the printer connects but the document does not print:

• 📄 Check if the task is in the print queue (on PC: Control Panel → Devices and Printers → View Queue).
• 🔄 Restart the printer and device.
• 🖨️ Make sure the correct paper size is selected in the print settings.

What should I do if Wi-Fi Direct doesn't turn on at all?

If your printer doesn't respond to attempts to enable Wi-Fi Direct, this may indicate a hardware problem with the Wi-Fi module or a firmware error. Try the following:

1. Update firmware printer via USB or Ethernet (instructions on the website HP).

2. Reset settings to factory settings: hold down the buttons Wireless + Cancel + Nutrition for 10 seconds.

3. Check the power supply: Unstable voltage can disable wireless modules.

If all else fails, contact a service center. In some cases, the Wi-Fi module may need to be replaced (costing approximately 1,500–3,000 rubles for most models).

Wi-Fi Direct alternatives for HP printers that don't support the feature

If your printer HP does not support Wi-Fi Direct, there are several ways to set up wireless printing:

• 🌐 Connection via router: The most reliable option. The printer and devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. The downside is that it requires access to the router.
• 📱 HP Smart App: The app allows you to print via the cloud (Google Drive, Dropbox) or a local network. It even works on older models.
• 🖥️ USB print server: device (for example, TP-Link TL-PS310U) connects to the printer via USB and shares it via Wi-Fi. Price: from 2,000 rubles.
• 🔌 Wi-Fi adapter for printer: external module (for example, HP Jetdirect 2900nw), which adds wireless printing support. Suitable for older models with an Ethernet port.

For offices with multiple printers, it is optimal to use network printer with support Ethernet or Wi-FiIf you need a mobile option, consider portable printers. HP Sprocket (printing via Bluetooth).

⚠️ Attention: When using USB print servers or adapters, check compatibility with your printer model. Some devices only work with printers that support the protocol. LPD/LPR or IPP.

Wi-Fi Direct Security: How to Protect Your Printer from Hacking

Connecting directly to a printer via Wi-Fi Direct creates potential risks:

• 🔓 Data interception: If the password is weak, an attacker can connect to the printer and intercept printed documents.
• 📄 Unauthorized printing: Third parties can send print jobs, wasting your ink.
• 🕵️ Local network access: In some cases, it is possible to penetrate the corporate network through the printer.

To minimize risks:

1. Change the default password complex (at least 12 characters, with numbers and special characters).
2. Turn off Wi-Fi Direct after use (in the printer menu).
3. Update your printer firmware — new versions often patch vulnerabilities.
4. Use a VPN on your device if you are printing confidential documents.

For corporate users, it is recommended to set up printing via secure protocols (For example, IPPS instead of IPP) and restrict access by device MAC addresses.

Comparing Wi-Fi Direct to other wireless printing methods

Wi-Fi Direct isn't the only way to print wirelessly. Let's compare it to alternatives:

Technology	Speed	Security	Convenience	Restrictions
Wi-Fi Direct	Average (up to 25 Mbps)	Medium (depending on password)	High (no router needed)	Limited number of devices, no internet access
Wi-Fi via a router	High (100+ Mbps)	High (WPA3)	Average (requires internet access)	Dependence on the stability of the router
Bluetooth	Low (up to 3 Mbps)	Low (easy to intercept)	Low (small radius, slow printing)	Supports portable printers only (HP Sprocket)
NFC	Very low (for initialization only)	Average	Very high (holding the phone up)	Works only on new models (OfficeJet Pro 9020)

For home and small offices Wi-Fi Direct — the optimal choice if you need to quickly print a document without configuring a router. For corporate use, it's better to set up printing via secure Wi-Fi network or use print server with authorization.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Wi-Fi Direct on HP printers

My HP printer doesn't see Wi-Fi Direct in the menu. What should I do?

Possible reasons:

• Your model does not support the function (check the table above).
• Outdated firmware - update it via HP website.
• The function is hidden: on some printers you need to hold down Wireless + Information for 5 seconds.

If nothing helps, use alternative connection methods (USB server or router).

Is it possible to print via Wi-Fi Direct from an iPhone?

Yes, but there are some nuances:

1. Connect to the printer's network in the Wi-Fi settings.
2. Use the app HP Smart (free in the App Store).
3. In some printer models (OfficeJet 8020) additional configuration is required AirPrint.

If printing does not start, check that the Print option is enabled in your iPhone settings. Local area network (Settings → Privacy → Local Network).

How do I change the Wi-Fi Direct password on an HP printer?

Procedure:

1. Go to the printer menu: Settings → Network → Wi-Fi Direct.
2. Select Security settings or Password.
3. Enter a new password (minimum 8 characters).
4. Save the changes and the printer will reboot.

On some models (LaserJet Pro M426) the password can only be reset by resetting the network (Settings → Network reset).

How many devices can I connect to a printer via Wi-Fi Direct?

Depends on the model:

• OfficeJet Pro, Envy, Tango: up to 5 devices.
• LaserJet Pro: up to 3 devices.
• DeskJet: up to 2 devices.

If the limit is exceeded, a new device will not be able to connect until one of the current devices is disconnected.

Is it possible to use Wi-Fi Direct and regular Wi-Fi at the same time?

No, a printer. HP Doesn't support dual-mode operation. When Wi-Fi Direct is enabled:

• The printer disconnects from the main Wi-Fi network.
• To return to regular Wi-Fi, you need to manually disable Wi-Fi Direct in the menu.

Exception: models with dual Wi-Fi module (For example, HP OfficeJet Pro 9025e), but they are rare.