Easy Steps to Connect Your HP Printer to Wi-Fi

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Jan 18
3 min read

Connecting your HP printer to Wi-Fi can save you time and hassle by allowing wireless printing from multiple devices. Whether you want to print from your laptop, smartphone, or tablet, setting up your HP printer on your home or office network is straightforward. This guide walks you through the process step-by-step, helping you avoid common pitfalls and get your printer online quickly.

Close-up view of HP printer control panel showing wireless setup option — HP printer control panel with wireless setup option

Check Your Network and Printer Compatibility Connect Your HP Printer to Wi-Fi

Before starting, make sure your Wi-Fi network is active and stable. Your HP printer must support wireless connections, which most modern models do. Here are some points to verify:

Wi-Fi Network Name (SSID): Know your network’s exact name.
Wi-Fi Password: Have your password ready.
Printer Model: Confirm your printer supports wireless printing.
Device Proximity: Keep your printer within range of your Wi-Fi router.

If your printer is older and lacks wireless capability, you might need a USB connection or a wireless adapter.

Prepare Your HP Printer for Wireless Setup

Most HP printers have a built-in control panel or touchscreen that guides you through the wireless setup. Follow these steps:

Power on the printer and ensure it is ready.
- Navigate to Setup or Network settings.
- Select Wireless Setup Wizard.
Access the Wireless Setup Wizard from the printer’s control panel:
The printer will scan for available Wi-Fi networks.
Select your Wi-Fi network from the list.
Enter your Wi-Fi password carefully.
Confirm the connection.

If your printer does not have a touchscreen, you might need to use the WPS method or install software on your computer.

Use WPS to Connect Without a Password

Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) allows you to connect your printer to the network without typing the password. This method works only if your router supports WPS.

Press the WPS button on your router.
Within two minutes, press the Wireless or WPS button on your HP printer.
The printer will connect automatically.

This method is quick but less secure than entering the password manually.

Install HP Software on Your Computer or Mobile Device

To print wirelessly, install the HP Smart app or the full HP printer software on your device.

Visit the HP Support website or your device’s app store.
Download and install HP Smart for Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS.
Open the app and follow the prompts to add your printer.
The app will detect your printer on the network and complete the setup.

Using the HP Smart app also lets you scan, check ink levels, and manage print jobs easily.

Eye-level view of laptop screen showing HP Smart app interface with printer setup — Laptop screen displaying HP Smart app during printer setup

Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues

If your printer does not connect, try these fixes:

Restart devices: Turn off your printer, router, and computer or mobile device. Turn them back on after a minute.
Check Wi-Fi signal: Move the printer closer to the router.
Verify password: Make sure you entered the correct Wi-Fi password.
Update firmware: Use the HP Smart app or website to update your printer’s firmware.
Disable VPN or firewall temporarily: Sometimes security software blocks connections.
Reset network settings: On the printer, reset wireless settings and try again.

If problems persist, consult the HP support site or user manual for model-specific advice.

Print Wirelessly from Multiple Devices

Once connected, you can print from:

Windows and Mac computers using the HP Smart app or built-in print dialog.
Smartphones and tablets using HP Smart or AirPrint (iOS) and Mopria (Android).
Other devices on the same Wi-Fi network.

Make sure all devices are connected to the same network as your printer for smooth operation.