Connecting your HP printer to WiFi is a quick and convenient way to enjoy wireless printing from your laptop, smartphone, or tablet. Whether you're setting up a new printer or reconnecting after changing routers, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process.

Let’s dive into how to connect your HP printer to a wireless network easily and efficiently.

Why Connect Your HP Printer to WiFi?

A wireless printer setup offers several advantages:

  • Print from any device connected to your WiFi network

  • Eliminate USB cable clutter

  • Access mobile printing through apps like HP Smart

  • Enable cloud-based print options (e.g., Google Cloud Print, Apple AirPrint)

 

 

What You Need Before You Start

Before you begin, make sure you have the following:

  • A working WiFi network (with SSID and password)

  • Your HP printer powered on and within range of the router

  • A computer or smartphone with internet access

  • (Optional) The HP Smart app installed

📌 Tip: For a smoother setup, place the printer close to your WiFi router during installation.

Step 1: Determine Your Printer Model and Setup Type

HP printers typically fall into three categories for wireless setup:

  1. Printers with touchscreens – Use the control panel for setup

  2. Printers without a screen – Use WiFi Protected Setup (WPS) or HP Smart app

  3. Older or basic models – Use USB to configure WiFi manually

Choose the method below based on your printer type.

Step 2: Use the Control Panel (Touchscreen Models)

If your printer has a display screen:

  1. Tap the Wireless or Network icon on the control panel

  2. Select Wireless Setup Wizard

  3. Your printer will search for available networks

  4. Choose your WiFi network name (SSID) from the list

  5. Enter your WiFi password using the on-screen keyboard

  6. Tap OK or Done to confirm

The printer will attempt to connect. Once connected, the WiFi light will stop blinking and remain solid.

Step 3: Use the HP Smart App (Recommended for All Models)

The HP Smart app is available on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It simplifies setup and allows printing/scanning from mobile devices.

📱 To connect via HP Smart:

  1. Download and open the HP Smart app from your app store

  2. Make sure your printer is in setup mode (WiFi light blinking)

    • If not, reset network settings via the control panel or press and hold the WiFi and Cancel buttons together for 5 seconds

  3. In the HP Smart app, tap Add Printer

  4. The app will detect your printer and prompt you to connect to WiFi

  5. Enter your network password when prompted

  6. Follow the on-screen steps to complete setup

Once finished, your printer will be added to the app and connected to WiFi.

 

 

Step 4: Use Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS Button)

This method works only if your printer and router both support WPS.

🔄 To use WPS:

  1. Press and hold the Wireless button on the printer until it starts blinking

  2. Within 2 minutes, press the WPS button on your router

  3. Wait for the printer to automatically connect (solid blue light)

⚠️ Note: WPS is being phased out on newer routers for security reasons.

Step 5: Use a USB Cable (for Older Models)

Some older printers require USB for initial WiFi setup.

  1. Connect the printer to your computer using a USB cable

  2. Download and run the HP Easy Start software from support.hp.com/setup

  3. Follow the prompts to connect the printer to WiFi

  4. Once connected, you can remove the USB cable

How to Confirm the Printer Is Connected

Once setup is complete, verify the connection:

  • Print a Wireless Network Test Report from your printer settings

  • In the HP Smart app, your printer should show as “Ready” or “Connected”

  • On your computer, go to Printers & Scanners and confirm the status is Idle or Online

What If It Doesn’t Work? Troubleshooting Tips

If the printer doesn’t connect:

  • Restart your router, printer, and computer

  • Move the printer closer to the router

  • Check the WiFi password you entered

  • Reset network settings on the printer and try again

  • Ensure your router isn’t blocking new connections (check parental controls or MAC filtering)

Still stuck? Use the HP Print and Scan Doctor (Windows) or contact HP Support.

FAQs

Q: Can I connect my HP printer to a new WiFi network?

Yes. Reset the printer’s network settings and repeat the setup steps above.

 

Q: What if my printer has no display?

Use the HP Smart app or WPS method for setup.

 

Q: Can I use mobile data to connect?

No. The printer must connect to a WiFi router, not a mobile hotspot (in most cases).

 

 

Conclusion

Connecting your HP printer to WiFi enables fast, cable-free printing from all your devices. Whether you’re using a touchscreen, app, or basic model, the process is straightforward and takes just a few minutes. Once connected, enjoy the freedom of wireless printing anytime.

If you're facing issues or want help for a specific model, let me know—I can provide tailored steps.