Connecting Your HP Printer to Wi-Fi: Step-by-Step

Getting a new printer should be exciting, but that excitement can quickly turn into a headache when you hit the first wall: getting it onto your Wi-Fi network. Suddenly, you’re tangled in a web of network names, passwords, and blinking lights. If you’re struggling with how to connect an HP printer to Wi-Fi, you’ve come to the right place.

Forget the jargon-filled manuals. We’re going to walk through the most common methods, from the super-simple app-based setup to troubleshooting the most stubborn connection issues.

Before You Begin: The Pre-Flight Checklist

Before diving in, let’s get a few things in order. Having this information ready will make the entire process much smoother.

Gather Your Network Information

This is the most critical part. You will need two pieces of information about your home or office wireless network:

• Network Name (SSID): This is the name you select from the list of available networks on your phone or computer (e.g., “MyHomeNetwork,” “CoffeeShop_WiFi”).
• Network Password (WPA Key): This is the password you use to access your network. It’s often printed on a sticker on your router.

Make sure the computer or mobile device you’re using for the setup is connected to the same Wi-Fi network you want the printer to join.

Position Your Gear

For the initial setup, place your HP printer, computer/smartphone, and Wi-Fi router relatively close to each other. This ensures a strong signal and reduces the chances of a connection timeout. You can always move the printer to its final destination after it’s successfully connected.

The Easiest Method: Using the HP Smart App

For most modern HP printers, the company steers you toward using the HP Smart app. It’s a guided process that holds your hand through every step, making it the most reliable option.

Step 1: Download and Install the App

First, you need to get the app on your computer or smartphone. It’s a free and official tool from HP.

• You can find it by visiting 123.hp.com or by searching for “HP Smart” in the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Microsoft Store.

Step 2: Add Your Printer

Once the app is installed, open it. You’ll likely need to create or sign in to an HP account.

1. Inside the app, look for a button that says “Add Printer” or a plus (+) icon.
2. The app will now search for new HP printers on your network or in setup mode. Make sure your printer is turned on.
3. Select your printer model when it appears in the list.

Step 3: Follow the Guided Setup

The HP Smart app will take it from here. It will automatically find your current Wi-Fi network’s name (SSID). You will just need to enter your Wi-Fi password when prompted. The app then sends these credentials to the printer, which will use them to connect to the network.

Once it’s done, you can print a test page directly from the app to confirm everything is working.

No App? No Problem. Connecting Directly From Your Printer

If you prefer not to use the app or have a printer with a touchscreen display, you can often connect it directly.

Method 1: The Wireless Setup Wizard (For Printers with Touchscreens)

This is a straightforward tool built into most HP printers that have a display.

1. On the printer’s control panel, navigate to the Settings, Network, or Wireless menu. The icon often looks like a wrench or a Wi-Fi signal.
2. Look for an option called “Wireless Setup Wizard” and select it.
3. The printer will scan for available Wi-Fi networks.
4. Choose your network name (SSID) from the list.
5. Carefully enter your Wi-Fi password using the on-screen keyboard. Remember that passwords are case-sensitive.
6. The printer will attempt to connect. A confirmation message should appear on the screen once it’s successful.

Method 2: Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) – The Two-Minute Handshake

WPS is a simpler method that doesn’t require you to enter your password. It’s like a temporary, secure handshake between your router and printer.

Quick Note: This method only works if your router has a physical WPS button. It often has a symbol of two circling arrows.

1. On your printer’s control panel, go to the Network or Wireless menu and select “Wi-Fi Protected Setup” or “WPS”.
2. Choose the “Push Button” method. The printer will give you about two minutes to complete the next step.
3. Walk over to your Wi-Fi router and press the WPS button. Hold it for a few seconds until a light starts blinking.
4. Return to your printer. It should automatically detect the router and establish a connection.

Common Roadblocks and How to Fix Them

Sometimes, things just don’t go as planned. If you’re running into errors, here are a few solutions for common problems people face when trying to connect an HP printer to Wi-Fi.

The “Last Resort”: Restoring Network Settings

If you’ve tried everything and the connection still fails, you can restore the printer’s network settings to their factory defaults.

The process varies by model, but you can typically find it in the Settings > Network menu on the printer’s control panel. Look for an option like “Restore Network Settings” or “Restore Network Defaults”. After doing this, you will need to restart the connection process from the beginning.

A Fresh Start

Connecting a device to Wi-Fi can sometimes test your patience, but it’s a hurdle you only have to clear once. By following the right steps for your specific printer model—whether it’s through the user-friendly HP Smart app or the direct Wireless Setup Wizard—you’ll be ready to print from any device in your home or office.

For any model-specific instructions or to download the latest drivers, the official HP Customer Support website is always the best resource.