How to Add HP Printer to Wireless Network

Wireless printing has revolutionized the way we handle documents, making it more convenient than ever to print from various devices without needing to be physically connected to a printer. Whether you’re using a laptop, smartphone, or tablet, adding an HP printer to your wireless network allows for seamless printing across all your devices. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from preparation to troubleshooting, ensuring you can successfully connect hp printer to new wifi.

Why Add Your HP Printer to a Wireless Network?

Adding your HP printer to a wireless network offers several advantages:

1. Convenience: Print from any device connected to the network without having to plug in.
2. Mobility: Print from anywhere within the network’s range, whether you’re in another room or across the office.
3. Multi-Device Printing: Connect multiple devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets, to the same printer.
4. Space-Saving: Eliminate the need for long cables, reducing clutter in your workspace.

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Preparing for Wireless Setup

Before you start the process of adding your HP printer to a wireless network, it’s essential to gather a few key items:

1. Wi-Fi Network Name (SSID): This is the name of the wireless network you want to connect your printer to.
2. Wi-Fi Password: Also known as the network security key, this password allows devices to connect to the Wi-Fi network.
3. HP Printer Model: Different models might have slightly different setup processes. Refer to your printer’s manual if needed.
4. Computer or Mobile Device: You’ll need a device connected to the same Wi-Fi network to complete the setup.

Step 1: Power on Your HP Printer

Begin by turning on your HP printer. Ensure it is fully powered up and ready to be configured. If your printer has a touchscreen, ensure the display is active.

Check Printer Status

Before proceeding, make sure the printer is idle, not currently printing, or processing any tasks. If necessary, cancel any ongoing print jobs.

Step 2: Connect Using the HP Smart App (Recommended)

The HP Smart app simplifies the process of adding your HP printer to a wireless network, especially if your printer has a touchscreen.

Download the HP Smart App

• For Windows and macOS: Download the app from the HP website or the Microsoft Store.
• For Android and iOS: Download the app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Set Up Your Printer

1. Open the HP Smart App: After downloading and installing, open the app on your device.
2. Add Your Printer: The app should automatically detect any printers that are turned on and within range. If not, click on the plus sign (+) to add your printer manually.
3. Connect to Wi-Fi: The app will prompt you to select your Wi-Fi network from a list of available networks. Enter the Wi-Fi password when prompted.
4. Complete Setup: The app will guide you through the remaining setup steps, such as updating drivers or software if necessary.

Step 3: Using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) for Printers Without Touchscreens

If your HP printer does not have a touchscreen, you can use the WPS method to connect it to your wireless network.

Locate the WPS Button on Your Router

Find the WPS button on your Wi-Fi router. It is usually located on the back or side of the device and may be labeled as “WPS.”

Activate WPS on Your Printer

1. Press the Wireless Button: On your HP printer, press and hold the Wireless button until the wireless light starts blinking. This indicates the printer is in WPS mode.
2. Press the WPS Button on Your Router: Within two minutes of activating WPS on your printer, press the WPS button on your router to establish a connection.
3. Wait for the Connection: The printer’s wireless light will stop blinking and remain steady once the connection is successful.

Step 4: Using the Embedded Web Server (EWS) for Manual Setup

For more advanced users or specific models, the Embedded Web Server (EWS) offers a manual way to connect your HP printer to a wireless network.

Find the Printer’s IP Address

If your printer is already connected to a network, print a network configuration page to find its IP address. This is usually done by pressing and holding the Wireless button and the Information button simultaneously.

Access the Embedded Web Server

1. Open a Web Browser: On a device connected to the same network, enter the printer’s IP address into the browser’s address bar to open the Embedded Web Server.
2. Navigate to Network Settings: Go to the Network tab and select the Wireless Setup Wizard or Wireless (802.11).
3. Connect to Wi-Fi: Choose your Wi-Fi network from the list of available networks, enter the password, and save the settings.

Step 5: Installing Software and Drivers

After successfully connecting your HP printer to the wireless network, you might need to install or update the printer’s software and drivers on your computer or mobile device.

Download the Latest Software

Visit the HP support website and download the latest drivers and software for your specific printer model.

Install the Software

Follow the on-screen instructions to install the software. During installation, ensure you select the option to connect the printer wirelessly.

Test the Printer

After installation, print a test page to ensure the printer is functioning correctly and is connected to the wireless network.

Step 6: Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with a straightforward process, issues can arise. Here are some common problems and how to resolve them:

Printer Not Detected During Setup

• Check Printer Status: Ensure the printer is turned on and within range of the Wi-Fi router.
• Restart Devices: Restart your printer, router, and the device you are using for the setup.
• Check Wireless Light: Ensure the wireless light on the printer is blinking, indicating it is in pairing mode.

Incorrect Wi-Fi Password

• Re-enter the Password: Ensure the password entered is correct, keeping in mind that it is case-sensitive.
• Reset Network Settings: If the printer was previously connected to a different network, reset its network settings and try connecting again.

WPS Connection Fails

• Check Router Compatibility: Ensure your router supports WPS and that it is enabled.
• Move the Printer Closer to the Router: Reducing the distance between the printer and the router can improve the connection.

Printer Offline

• Set as Default Printer: Ensure the HP printer is set as the default printer on your computer.
• Restart the Printer: Power off the printer, wait a few seconds, and turn it back on.
• Check Network Status: Ensure the printer is connected to the same network as your device.

Step 7: Advanced Tips and Additional Features

Once your HP printer is connected to the wireless network, you can take advantage of several advanced features and tips:

Use HP ePrint

HP ePrint allows you to print documents and photos by sending them to your printer’s unique email address from anywhere.

1. Register for HP ePrint: Sign up for an HP ePrint account and link your printer.
2. Print Remotely: Send an email with the attached document or photo to your printer’s email address, and it will print automatically.

Set Up Mobile Printing

With your HP printer connected to the wireless network, you can print directly from your smartphone or tablet using the HP Smart app, Apple AirPrint, or Google Cloud Print.

1. HP Smart App: Use the HP Smart app to print documents, photos, and more from your mobile device.
2. Apple AirPrint: For iOS devices, simply select AirPrint from the sharing options within apps like Safari or Photos.
3. Google Cloud Print: Although deprecated, some older printers may still support Google Cloud Print. Check your printer’s manual for compatibility.

Enable Print Anywhere

Print Anywhere is a feature available in the HP Smart app that lets you print documents from anywhere, even when you’re not on the same Wi-Fi network as your printer.

1. Activate Print Anywhere: In the HP Smart app, go to your printer settings and enable Print Anywhere.
2. Use the Feature: While away from your printer, use the HP Smart app to send print jobs that will be executed when the printer is online.

Conclusion

Adding an HP printer to a wireless network is a simple yet powerful way to enhance your printing experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your HP printer is correctly connected to your wireless network, enabling you to print from any device with ease. Whether you’re using the HP Smart app, WPS, or the Embedded Web Server, you’ll find a method that suits your needs and technical comfort level.

Troubleshooting tips and advanced features like HP ePrint, mobile printing, and Print Anywhere further expand the possibilities of what you can achieve with a wireless printer. With your HP printer connected to a wireless network, you can enjoy the freedom and flexibility of wireless printing, making your home or office more efficient and organized.