Modern printing devices have long ceased to be bulky units that require a mandatory physical connection to a computer. Model HP DeskJet 3790 This compact solution fits perfectly into a small apartment or office while maintaining the functionality of a full-fledged MFP. The main advantage of this series is its wireless printing capability, allowing the device to be placed anywhere in the room as long as there's a power outlet and wireless coverage.
However, despite the well-thought-out architecture of the device, the initial setup wireless connection This may raise questions for users unfamiliar with the Hewlett-Packard ecosystem. Activating the WiFi module requires a series of steps; ignoring them will prevent the operating system from detecting the printer. In this article, we'll cover all configuration steps in detail, from resetting network settings to installing drivers.
It's important to understand that the stability of the device directly depends on the signal quality and the accuracy of the entered data. Before starting, make sure your router is working properly and providing internet access, and your printer is fully loaded with cartridges and ready to use. We'll cover several connection scenarios, including using the WPS button for quick authorization and the classic USB cable method for transferring network settings.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure your router operates in the 2.4 GHz band, as many budget printer models do not support modern 5 GHz standards without first configuring network separation (SSID) on the router side.
Preparing equipment and resetting network settings
Before pairing devices, you must put the printer's network module in a ready state. It often happens that the device retains old configurations or is in standby mode, which prevents new network searches. HP DeskJet 3790 There is a button combination that will reset the network settings to factory defaults.
Press and hold the Wireless button and the Cancel button simultaneously for 3-5 seconds. The power light will begin flashing, indicating the reset process. Once the lights stop flashing and remain solid, the device is ready for reconfiguration. This is a critical step if the printer was previously connected to a different network or if the setup was unsuccessful.
Make sure you know the password for your WiFi network. If you use complex characters or special symbols, it's best to prepare them in advance for quick entry, as the setup interface is case-sensitive. Also, make sure Bluetooth is enabled on the computer or smartphone you'll be using for setup, as modern software versions use it for initial device detection.
- 📶 Make sure your router is turned on and sending a signal.
- 🔋 The printer must be connected to a power source and turned on.
- 📱 The smartphone or PC must be in an area with a strong signal reception.
- 🔑 Check in advance that your WiFi password is spelled correctly.
If the wireless indicator blinks blue after the reset, this means setup mode is active and the device is waiting to connect. If the indicator remains solid blue, the printer is already connected to a network and the reset procedure must be repeated.
WPS method: quick connection without entering a password
The easiest way to integrate HP DeskJet 3790 A simple way to connect to a local network is to use WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method eliminates the need to manually enter a password, which is especially convenient if the access key is complex or long. However, to implement this feature, your router must also support this feature and have a corresponding physical or software button.
Press the WPS button on your router. It's usually marked with a distinctive icon of two arrows forming a circle. After pressing it, you have about two minutes to activate the printer's search mode. Don't delay this step, as the security protocol limits the connection timeout.
On the printer control panel, press and hold the Wireless button until the light next to it starts blinking. The device will automatically search for a WPS signal from the router. Once the connection is established, the WiFi light will turn solid blue and the Wireless light will stop blinking.
⚠️ Attention: Some internet providers disable the WPS feature in their rental routers for security reasons. If the button on your router isn't responding, check the security settings in the router's web interface.
This method is ideal for users who don't want to install additional software during the network setup process. After successful pairing, the Windows or macOS operating system often automatically detects the new device on the network and prompts you to install basic drivers.
Setup via USB cable and HP Smart app
If WPS is unavailable or appears unstable, the most reliable option is to use a USB cable to transfer the initial network settings. This requires a USB A to B cable, which is often included in the kit but may not be available in some regions. The computer and printer must be in close proximity to each other.
Connect the USB cable to the port on the back panel HP DeskJet 3790
and to a free USB port on your computer. After that, run the driver installation by downloading the utility HP Smart From the official website or from the Microsoft Store. The app will automatically detect the connected device and prompt you to set up the wireless network.
During the installation process, select "Wireless Connection" or "Set up a new device." The program will copy the WiFi settings (SSID and password) from your computer's settings and transfer them to the printer via USB. After the data transfer, the program will prompt you to disconnect the USB cable, as further communication will be over the air.
☑️ Setup Preparation Checklist
The advantage of this method is that a complete package of drivers and diagnostic utilities is installed on the computer along with the network settings. This eliminates the need to search for individual components later. Furthermore, HP Smart allows you to immediately register the device and check ink levels.
Using Wi-Fi Direct to print from mobile devices
Technology Wi-Fi Direct allows you to connect mobile devices (smartphones, tablets) directly to the printer without the need for a shared Wi-Fi network or router. This is especially useful if you're visiting someone or at an office where access to the corporate network is limited, but need to print a document urgently.
To activate this mode, press the Wi-Fi Direct button on the printer control panel or use the wireless setup menu. The device will create its own access point with a name containing "HP-Print" and the device model. A new SSID will appear in the list of available networks on your smartphone screen; connect to it by entering the password.
The Wi-Fi Direct connection password is usually printed on an information sticker on the device or can be printed by simultaneously pressing the information and wireless buttons. Once connected, the smartphone and printer are connected to the same virtual network, allowing you to print documents via the standard "Share" menu or through the app. HP Smart.
| Parameter | Description | Default value |
|---|---|---|
| Network name (SSID) | Unique name of the printer access point | HP-Print-XX-DeskJet 3700 series |
| Password | Security key for connection | 12345678 (indicated on the label) |
| Range of action | Maximum distance to the device | Up to 10 meters without obstacles |
| Number of devices | Limit of simultaneous connections | Up to 5 devices |
What to do if the phone doesn’t see the printer?
Make sure that your phone's mobile internet (4G/5G) is disabled while searching for the printer's network, as some operating systems prioritize internet connections and ignore local networks without access to the global network.
Installing drivers and software
After successfully connecting to the network, you need to ensure the device is working properly in the operating system. Although Windows 10 and 11 often automatically find and install basic drivers for HP DeskJet 3790For full functionality, including scanning and ink monitoring, the full software is required.
We recommend using a dynamic installation package, which automatically detects your printer model and OS version. Go to the official support website, enter your device model, and select your operating system. The downloader will prompt you to download full driver package, which weighs significantly more than the base one and contains additional snails.
During the installation process, you may be asked to confirm administrator rights. Follow the on-screen instructions, selecting the connection type (Wireless or Network). If the program cannot find the printer on the network, check that your computer and printer are connected to the same network (same router SSID).
In some cases, antivirus software or a firewall may be blocking printer detection. If the installation freezes while searching for a device, try temporarily disabling the firewall or adding an exception for HP processes.
⚠️ Attention: Driver interfaces and HP Smart app functionality are subject to update. If you can't find an option described in the instructions, check the app's help or the manufacturer's website for the latest information.
Diagnostics and solution
Even if you carefully follow the instructions, technical difficulties may arise. The most common issue is the printer being in "Offline" or "Not Connected" status. First, check the wireless indicator: if it's blinking, the connection to the router has been lost. Try moving the router closer or removing any physical obstructions.
Another common issue is an IP address conflict. If there are many devices on the network, the router may have assigned the printer an address that is already in use. In this case, rebooting the router can help: unplug it for 30 seconds, then plug it back in and wait until it fully boots up. The printer will automatically reconnect and receive a new address.
If your computer "sees" your printer but can't send a document to print, check your print queue. Stuck documents may be blocking the entire queue. Open "Devices and Printers" in Control Panel, and find HP DeskJet 3790, open the queue and clear all documents. Then restart the Windows print service.
For a more in-depth diagnosis, use the built-in wireless network quality report. You can access it by pressing the wireless and information buttons simultaneously. The printer will print a page showing the signal strength, network name, and IP address. This will help you determine whether the printer can even see the router.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I connect my HP DeskJet 3790 to a computer without WiFi?
Yes, this is possible. The model supports a direct wired connection via USB cable. In this mode, the printer operates as a local device and does not require a wireless network or router. However, you will lose the ability to print from mobile devices and access remotely.
What should I do if the WiFi indicator keeps blinking after setup?
A blinking light means the printer is in setup mode or is unable to connect to the saved network. Check the WiFi password. If the password has been changed on the router, you will need to reset the printer's network settings and reconnect using the correct information.
Does this model support cloud printing (HP ePrint)?
The base HP DeskJet 3790 model may not have built-in HP ePrint support, depending on the region and year of manufacture. For cloud printing, it's best to use the HP Smart app, which allows you to print documents from anywhere via the internet, as long as the printer is connected to the network.
How to find the IP address of a printer on the network?
Press and hold the Wireless button and the Information button simultaneously for 3 seconds. The printer will print a network configuration report, which will list the current IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.55). This address is needed for manual driver installation or accessing the web interface, if available.