Changing a router or resetting a home network password often leaves users stumped when it comes to peripherals. Printing devices, unlike smartphones or laptops, don't always have a full-size display for entering new characters. That's why the question of how to replace the Wi-Fi on an HP printer remains one of the most popular among office equipment owners.
The process for restoring the connection depends on the specific model of your device and whether it has a touchscreen. Some devices allow you to reconfigure the connection in a couple of clicks, while others require a temporary USB cables or buttons on the printer's housing. In this article, we'll cover all the current methods for restoring the connection so your printer can print again.
It's important to understand that modern HP printers often use cloud services for management. This means that simply changing the router password without reconfiguring the MFP itself will disrupt the connection not only to the computer but also to mobile apps. Therefore, a proper approach to network migration is critical to the smooth operation of the entire printing ecosystem.
Preparing to change network settings
Before you begin any technical work, make sure your new router is fully operational. Make sure you know the exact network name (SSID) and password. Pay attention to case and special characters, as even a single error will result in failure.
It's also worth checking the frequency range your device supports. Many older HP printer models operate exclusively in the range 2.4 GHz and don't see 5 GHz networks. If your new router combines both bands under one name, you may need to temporarily separate them through the router settings for successful association.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting setup, make sure your printer has the latest drivers installed. Outdated software may contain errors that prevent the Wi-Fi module from working properly.
Place the printer no more than 2-3 meters from the router during setup. This will prevent weak signal conditions that could interrupt the encryption key transfer process. After a successful connection, the printer can be returned to its permanent location.
Using the WPS button for quick connection
The easiest way to replace Wi-Fi on an HP printer without a computer is with WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). It allows devices to exchange passwords automatically through physical contact or the press of a button. This method is ideal if your router has a corresponding button and your printer has a display or indicator light.
To begin, press the WPS button on your router and hold it for 3-5 seconds until the security light starts flashing. Then, on the printer's control panel, look for the wireless network icon. It usually looks like an antenna or is located under "Settings" → "Wireless."
- 📶 Press the "Wireless" button on the printer screen.
- 🔘 Select "Wi-Fi Protected Setup" or "WPS".
- 🖱️ Confirm your choice by clicking "Start" or "OK".
- ⏳ Wait about 2 minutes until the indicators stop flashing and light up steadily.
If your printer doesn't have a touchscreen but has a button with an antenna icon, try pressing and holding it for 5 seconds. At the same time, enable WPS on your router. The device will automatically attempt to find the network and connect to it without entering a password.
Setting up via the printer menu (for models with a display)
Owners of HP OfficeJet, LaserJet Pro, and ENVY devices with a color display can enter a new password directly. This method is the most secure, as it eliminates errors in automated protocols. You will need to carefully monitor the characters you enter on the device's keyboard.
Click the settings icon (gear) or the wireless button on the control panel. Go to the "Network Settings" or "Wireless" menu. Here, find the "Wireless Setup Wizard" option. The system will search for available networks.
Select the name of your new Wi-Fi network from the list. If the network is hidden, select "Other" and enter the SSID manually. Once selected, a password entry screen will open. Use the navigation arrows to select letters and numbers. Be careful with case, as Wi-Fi is case-sensitive. Case Sensitive.
⚠️ Attention: Some corporate networks require additional settings, such as encryption type (WPA2-Enterprise). Home networks typically use the standard WPA2-Personal encryption.
After entering the password, click "Done" or "OK." The printer will attempt to obtain an IP address from the router. A successful connection will be confirmed by the Wi-Fi icon appearing on the screen and the blue light next to the wireless button lighting up.
☑️ Checking display settings
Temporary connection via USB cable
If the printer's screen is missing or broken and the WPS method doesn't work, a tried-and-true cable method remains. You'll need a standard USB Type-B cable (square connector), which is usually included, and a computer with the full HP driver package installed.
Connect the printer to your computer via a USB cable and turn it on. Wait for the operating system to recognize the new hardware. Then, run the HP setup program that was installed with the drivers, or download the utility. HP Smart from the Microsoft Store or App Store.
In the program interface, find the "Settings" or "Utilities" section. Select "Change wireless connection" or "Reconfigure Wi-Fi." The program will prompt you to select a new network from the list of available networks on your computer. Simply enter the password, and the program will automatically transfer the settings to the printer via a USB cable.
Sequence of actions in HP Smart:1. Open the application.
2. Click "+ Add printer".
3. Follow the on-screen instructions until you reach the network selection stage.
4. Enter the Wi-Fi password.
Once the settings have been successfully transferred, the program will notify you that you can disconnect the USB cable. The printer will automatically switch to a wireless connection. If this doesn't happen, check that the blue wireless indicator is lit.
Reset network settings to factory defaults
If the printer has "remembered" the old network and refuses to switch, or if you can't access the settings menu, a full reset of the network settings will help. This will return the Wi-Fi module to its factory default state.
Most HP models without a touchscreen require a button combination. Typically, you need to simultaneously press and hold the "Wireless" button and the "Cancel" button (the cross) for 5-10 seconds. The power and network lights should begin flashing, indicating the reset process has begun.
- 🔄 Turn off the printer using the power button.
- 🔌 Unplug the power cable from the power outlet for 30 seconds.
- 🔌 Plug the printer back into the network.
- 📶 Immediately after turning on, press and hold the Wi-Fi button and the information (i) button until the HP logo appears.
After the reset, the printer will enter setup mode. A new device labeled "Setup" or "New" will appear in the list of available printers on your computer or mobile device. You can now restart the connection process as if you had just purchased the device.
⚠️ Attention: Resetting network settings does not delete personal data scanned into the printer's memory, but it does reset the static IP address and proxy server settings if they have been set manually.
Using the HP Smart mobile app
The most modern and convenient way to control peripherals is an application HP SmartAvailable for iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS, the app not only lets you print but also customize your device's network settings.
Download the app and create an HP account (this is a requirement for cloud features). Tap the plus sign to add a new printer. If the printer is already connected to the old network, the app may prompt you to "Change Wi-Fi settings."
Follow the instructions on your smartphone's screen. The app will ask you to confirm that the printer is in setup mode (the blue indicator will blink). Next, select your new network from the list and enter the password. Your smartphone will transfer this information to the printer via Bluetooth or a direct Wi-Fi connection.
The advantage of this method is that once set up, you gain access to remote printing and scanning features. You can print documents from anywhere with internet access, which is especially important for hybrid work environments.
Solving common connection problems
Even if you follow the instructions exactly, errors may still occur. Often, the problem lies in your router's security settings. Make sure MAC address filtering isn't enabled on your router. If it is, you'll need to add the printer's MAC address to the list of allowed devices.
Another common cause is incompatibility between encryption standards. HP printers released several years ago may not support the new standard. WPA3In your router settings, try temporarily switching the security mode to WPA2-PSK (AES) to complete the setup.
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The printer does not see the network | 5 GHz band | Enable the 2.4 GHz network on the router |
| Password error | Invalid case | Double-check capitalization |
| Weak signal | Long distance | Move the router closer or use a repeater |
| IP address not received | DHCP pool is full | Reboot the router |
If all else fails, try temporarily disabling your antivirus software or firewall on the computer you're using to configure the network. Sometimes they block the service packets needed to transmit network keys.
⚠️ Attention: Router and printer interfaces are subject to update. If the menu items described differ, please refer to the user manual for your specific model or the official support website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I connect my HP printer to a hidden Wi-Fi network?
Yes, this is possible, but only through the printer's menu (if it has a display) or via a USB cable. In the list of networks, select "Other" or "Hidden Network" and manually enter the exact name (SSID) and password.
My printer stopped printing after changing my router. What should I do?
Most likely, the new router's gateway IP address or network name has changed. You'll need to reconfigure the wireless connection on the printer using one of the methods described above (WPS, USB, or the device menu).
Do all HP printers support 5GHz network?
No, most older and budget models only support 2.4 GHz. Check the specifications for your model. If your router broadcasts a 5 GHz network, the printer simply won't detect it.
Do I need to reinstall drivers after changing Wi-Fi?
Usually not. If the computer and printer are on the same network, the operating system will automatically update the printer port. Reinstallation is only required if the old driver conflicts with the new network configuration.