How to connect an HP printer to Wi-Fi

⚡️Fast fix

• Make sure your phone or computer is on the same Wi-Fi network as the HP printer.
• Restart your printer and Wi-Fi router before setup.
• Use the HP Smart app to reconnect the printer to Wi-Fi.
• If setup fails, reset the printer’s network settings and try again.

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Connecting an HP® printer to Wi-Fi lets you print wirelessly from your phone, tablet, or computer—but setup doesn’t always go smoothly. Whether you’re setting up a new printer or reconnecting after changing networks, these steps will help you get your HP printer back online.

How to connect an HP printer to Wi-Fi

HP printers typically connect to wireless networks using the HP Smart app. Follow these steps in order.

Check your Wi-Fi connection

Confirm that your phone or computer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network you want the printer to use. The setup process won’t work if your device is on a different network.

Install or open the HP Smart app

Download or open the HP Smart app on your phone, tablet, or computer. Sign in or create an HP account if prompted, then follow the on-screen instructions.

Reset the printer’s network settings

If your printer was previously connected to another network, you’ll need to clear its saved Wi-Fi settings. This step puts the printer in setup mode so it can connect to the new network.

Add the printer in the app

In the HP Smart app, select Add printer or Set up a new printer, choose your Wi-Fi network, and enter the password when prompted.

Keep the printer close to the router

Place the printer within strong Wi-Fi range during setup to avoid dropped connections or timeouts.

If you’re connecting a different brand or want more general guidance, this guide on how to connect a printer to Wi-Fi covers common setup steps.

Why your HP printer won’t connect to Wi-Fi

Most wireless printer issues come down to a few common problems:

• The printer is still saved to an old Wi-Fi network.
• The Wi-Fi password was entered incorrectly.
• The printer is too far from the router.
• The router or printer needs a restart.
• The HP Smart app isn’t updated.

If you’re seeing repeated connection failures, these are the same issues that can cause an HP printer that won’t connect to Wi-Fi.

What to do if your HP printer still won’t connect

If setup doesn’t work the first time, try these additional fixes.

Restart your router and printer

Turn off both devices for about 30 seconds, then power them back on. This refreshes the network connection and clears temporary issues.

Check the Wi-Fi band

Some HP printers work best on 2.4 GHz networks. If your router uses both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, try connecting to the 2.4 GHz option.

Update printer software

Use the HP Smart app to check for firmware updates. Updates can resolve known Wi-Fi connection bugs.

When to get extra help

If your HP printer still won’t connect after troubleshooting, the issue may be related to network settings or hardware problems. Ongoing disconnects or repeated offline errors may point to a deeper issue.

If your printer keeps dropping off the network, this guide on fixing an offline HP printer can help you narrow down the cause.

Tips to keep your HP printer connected

• Leave the printer powered on to maintain a steady connection.
• Avoid frequently changing your Wi-Fi network name or password.
• Keep the printer within strong Wi-Fi range.
• Restart your router occasionally to maintain stable connections.

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FAQ

Do I need the HP Smart app to connect my printer to Wi-Fi?

Yes. Most HP printers require the HP Smart app to connect to a wireless network and complete setup.

Why won’t my HP printer connect after changing Wi-Fi networks?

The printer is likely still saved to the old network. Resetting the printer’s network settings and setting it up again usually fixes the issue.

Can I connect an HP printer to Wi-Fi without a computer?

Yes. You can use the HP Smart app on a smartphone or tablet to connect your printer to Wi-Fi.

Why does my HP printer keep going offline?

This usually happens when the Wi-Fi signal is weak or unstable. Keeping the printer close to the router and powered on helps prevent disconnects.