How to Change Wifi for Hp Printer? For Wireless Printing

Introduction

If you have recently upgraded your home or office network, moved to a new location, or simply changed your router credentials, you may be wondering How to Change Wifi for Hp Printer? This is one of the most common questions HP printer owners ask, especially as wireless printing becomes the standard for both home and business environments. A printer that is not connected to the correct WiFi network cannot receive print jobs, scan documents, or communicate with your computer or mobile device, which can quickly become frustrating.

Changing the WiFi network on an HP printer is not as complicated as it might seem. Depending on the model of your printer, you can use the printer’s control panel, the HP Smart app, the WPS button method, or even a USB connection to update the wireless settings. Each method has its own advantages, and choosing the right one depends on your printer model and the equipment you have available.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through every reliable method to change the WiFi network on your HP printer. Whether you own an HP DeskJet, ENVY, OfficeJet, LaserJet, or Tango model, you will find clear step-by-step instructions tailored to your needs. We will also cover troubleshooting tips, best practices, and answers to frequently asked questions so you can get back to printing without delay.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Why You Might Need to Change Your HP Printer’s WiFi
• Before You Start: What You Need
• Method 1: Change WiFi Using the Printer Control Panel
• Method 2: Change WiFi Using the HP Smart App
• Method 3: Change WiFi Using the WPS Button
• Method 4: Change WiFi Using a USB Connection
• Method 5: Change WiFi Using the Embedded Web Server
• Comparison of Methods by Printer Model
• Troubleshooting Common WiFi Connection Issues
• Tips and Best Practices
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Why You Might Need to Change Your HP Printer’s WiFi

There are several common scenarios where you will need to update the wireless network settings on your HP printer. Understanding these situations helps you choose the most efficient method.

• New router or modem: Upgrading your internet equipment often means a new network name (SSID) and password.
• Moved to a new location: Relocating your printer to a different floor or room may require connecting to a different access point.
• Changed WiFi password: For security reasons, you may have updated your WiFi password, breaking the printer’s existing connection.
• Network upgrade to 5GHz: Some older HP printers only support 2.4GHz networks, and switching to a dual-band router may require manual reconfiguration.
• Guest network setup: You may want to move the printer to a guest or secondary network for security isolation.
• Printer reset or firmware update: A factory reset or firmware update can erase saved network credentials.

Whatever the reason, the process of changing the WiFi is straightforward once you know which method applies to your printer.

Before You Start: What You Need

Before attempting to change the WiFi on your HP printer, gather the following information and items to ensure a smooth process.

• Your new WiFi network name (SSID) — exactly as it appears, including capitalization.
• Your WiFi password (network key) — case-sensitive.
• The printer model number (usually found on the front, top, or back of the printer).
• Access to the printer’s control panel or a computer/smartphone on the same network.
• The HP Smart app installed on your mobile device (optional but recommended).
• A USB cable (for USB method) if your printer supports it.

Make sure your printer is powered on and within range of the new WiFi router. A weak signal can cause connection failures during setup.

Method 1: Change WiFi Using the Printer Control Panel

This is the most direct method and works for most HP printers with a built-in display screen. The steps may vary slightly depending on whether your printer has a touchscreen or a basic LCD with navigation buttons.

For Printers with a Touchscreen Display

1. On the printer’s home screen, tap the Wireless icon (usually a signal or antenna symbol).
2. Tap Settings or Wireless Settings.
3. Select Wireless Setup Wizard.
4. The printer will scan for available networks. Select your new WiFi network name from the list.
5. Enter the WiFi password using the on-screen keyboard. Be careful with uppercase and lowercase letters.
6. Tap Done or OK to confirm.
7. The printer will attempt to connect. A blue wireless light or checkmark indicates success.

For Printers with a Basic LCD and Buttons

1. Press the Wireless button on the printer (often has a blue light).
2. Press and hold the Wireless and Cancel buttons simultaneously for about 5 seconds until the wireless light blinks.
3. On your computer or smartphone, connect to the printer’s temporary WiFi network (usually named “HP-Print-XX-PrinterName”).
4. Open a web browser and enter 192.168.223.1 or the address shown on the printer display.
5. Follow the on-screen prompts to select your new network and enter the password.
6. Once connected, the printer’s wireless light will turn solid blue.

Method 2: Change WiFi Using the HP Smart App

The HP Smart app is the recommended method for most modern HP printers. It works on iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac, and provides a guided setup experience.

1. Download and install the HP Smart app from the App Store, Google Play, or HP’s website.
2. Ensure your mobile device or computer is connected to the new WiFi network.
3. Open the HP Smart app and sign in or create an HP account if prompted.
4. Tap the plus (+) icon or Add Printer.
5. If the printer is already listed, tap it and select Printer Settings or Advanced Settings.
6. Navigate to Network or Wireless Settings.
7. Select Change Network or Wireless Setup Wizard.
8. Follow the on-screen prompts to select your new WiFi network and enter the password.
9. The app will push the settings to the printer. Wait for the confirmation message.

If the printer is not detected, you may need to reset the printer’s network settings first or connect temporarily via Bluetooth or USB.

Method 3: Change WiFi Using the WPS Button

WPS (WiFi Protected Setup) is a quick method that does not require entering a password manually. Both your router and printer must support WPS.

1. Ensure your printer is powered on and in range of the router.
2. On the printer, press and hold the Wireless button for about 3 seconds until the wireless light starts blinking.
3. Within 2 minutes, press the WPS button on your router (usually located on the back or side).
4. The printer and router will negotiate the connection automatically.
5. When the wireless light turns solid blue or stops blinking, the connection is established.

Note: WPS is not available on all routers, especially newer models that have disabled it for security reasons. If WPS fails, use one of the other methods.

Method 4: Change WiFi Using a USB Connection

If wireless methods are not working, you can temporarily connect the printer to your computer via USB and use HP software to update the WiFi settings.

1. Connect the printer to your computer using a USB cable.
2. Download and install the latest HP printer software or driver from HP’s support website for your specific model.
3. Open the HP software and select your printer.
4. Navigate to Printer Setup & Software or Tools.
5. Select Wireless Setup or Network Setup.
6. Follow the prompts to select your new WiFi network and enter the password.
7. The software will send the wireless configuration to the printer via USB.
8. Once configured, disconnect the USB cable. The printer should now connect to WiFi automatically.

This method is particularly useful for printers without a display screen or when the wireless radio needs to be activated for the first time.

Method 5: Change WiFi Using the Embedded Web Server (EWS)

The Embedded Web Server allows you to manage your printer through a web browser. This method is ideal for advanced users or IT administrators.

1. Find your printer’s IP address. You can print a network configuration page from the printer or check your router’s connected devices list.
2. Ensure your computer is on the same network as the printer.
3. Open a web browser and type the printer’s IP address (e.g., http://192.168.1.100).
4. The HP Embedded Web Server will load.
5. Navigate to the Network tab.
6. Select Wireless or 802.11 Wireless.
7. Click Wireless Setup Wizard or Manual Setup.
8. Enter your new SSID and password.
9. Click Apply or Save.
10. Restart the printer if prompted.

The EWS method gives you access to many advanced settings, including IP configuration, security protocols, and firmware updates.

Comparison of Methods by Printer Model

Different HP printer models support different configuration methods. The table below provides a quick reference.

HP Printer Series	Control Panel Method	HP Smart App	WPS	USB Method	EWS
HP DeskJet (basic)	Limited	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
HP ENVY	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
HP OfficeJet	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
HP LaserJet Pro	Yes	Yes	Sometimes	Yes	Yes
HP Tango	No screen	Yes (primary)	Yes	Yes	Yes
HP Smart Tank	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes

If you are unsure which method to use, start with the HP Smart app, as it offers the most guided and user-friendly experience across all modern HP printers.

Troubleshooting Common WiFi Connection Issues

Even with the correct steps, you may encounter problems when trying to change the WiFi on your HP printer. Here are common issues and their solutions.

Printer Not Found on Network

• Ensure the printer and your device are on the same WiFi network.
• Restart both the printer and the router.
• Temporarily disable any VPN or firewall that might block discovery.
• Reset the printer’s network settings and try again.

Incorrect Password Error

• Double-check the password for capitalization and special characters.
• Try connecting another device to the WiFi to confirm the password works.
• If your router uses WPA3, try switching to WPA2, as some older HP printers do not support WPA3.

Weak or Unstable Signal

• Move the printer closer to the router during setup.
• Avoid placing the printer near microwaves, cordless phones, or thick walls.
• Consider using a WiFi extender if the printer must remain in a low-signal area.

2.4GHz vs 5GHz Issues

• Many HP printers only support 2.4GHz networks. If your router broadcasts both bands under the same name, try separating them.
• Connect to the 2.4GHz band specifically during setup.
• Check your printer’s specifications to confirm band support.

Resetting Network Settings

If all else fails, resetting the printer’s network settings can resolve persistent issues.

1. On printers with a display, go to Settings > Network > Restore Network Settings or Reset Network.
2. For printers without a display, press and hold the Wireless and Cancel buttons for 5 seconds.
3. After reset, the printer will be in setup mode and you can reconnect using any method above.

Tips and Best Practices

Following these tips will help ensure a stable and secure wireless printing experience.

• Keep firmware updated: Regularly check for printer firmware updates through the HP Smart app or EWS to improve connectivity and security.
• Use a static IP: For business environments, assigning a static IP to your printer prevents connection drops when the router reassigns addresses.
• Enable WPA2 or WPA3: Use strong wireless security. Avoid WEP, which is outdated and insecure.
• Place printer optimally: Position the printer within 10–15 feet of the router with minimal obstructions for the best signal.
• Disable sleep mode issues: Some printers disconnect from WiFi when in deep sleep. Adjust power settings to keep the wireless radio active.
• Document your settings: Keep a record of your printer’s IP address, network name, and password for future troubleshooting.
• Use HP Smart app regularly: The app can alert you to connection issues and guide you through fixes automatically.
• Avoid network congestion: If many devices share your network, consider a dedicated IoT or printer VLAN for better performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I change the WiFi on my HP printer without a screen?

For screenless models like the HP Tango or basic DeskJet, use the HP Smart app or the WPS method. You can also temporarily connect via USB and use HP software to configure the wireless settings.

Why won’t my HP printer connect to WiFi after changing the password?

The printer still has the old password stored. You need to update the network settings using one of the methods in this guide. If the printer cannot find the network, reset its network settings first.

Can I connect my HP printer to a 5GHz WiFi network?

It depends on the model. Many newer HP printers support both 2.4GHz and 5GHz, but older models may only support 2.4GHz. Check your printer’s specifications or user manual.

How do I find my HP printer’s IP address?

Print a network configuration page from the printer’s control panel, or check the list of connected devices in your router’s admin interface. The HP Smart app also displays the IP address in printer details.

What is the WPS button on my HP printer?

Not all HP printers have a dedicated WPS button. On many models, you press and hold the Wireless button to initiate WPS mode. Refer to your printer’s manual for the exact procedure.

How long does it take to change the WiFi on an HP printer?

Most methods take between 2 and 5 minutes, including scanning for networks and entering credentials. WPS is the fastest, often completing in under a minute.

Do I need to reinstall printer drivers after changing WiFi?

Usually no. As long as the printer connects to the same network as your computer, existing drivers should continue to work. However, if you changed networks entirely, you may need to re-add the printer in your operating system’s printer settings.

What should I do if my HP printer keeps disconnecting from WiFi?

Check for firmware updates, ensure a strong signal, disable sleep mode disconnection, and consider assigning a static IP address. Also verify that your router is not rebooting or changing channels frequently.

Conclusion

Knowing How to Change Wifi for Hp Printer? is an essential skill for anyone who relies on wireless printing at home or in the office. Whether you use the printer’s control panel, the HP Smart app, WPS, USB, or the Embedded Web Server, there is a method suited to every printer model and situation. By following the step-by-step instructions in this guide, you can quickly reconnect your HP printer to a new WiFi network and resume printing without frustration.

Remember to keep your printer’s firmware updated, use strong WiFi security, and position the printer for optimal signal strength. If you encounter persistent issues, resetting the network settings and trying a different method often resolves the problem. With the right approach, changing your HP printer’s WiFi network becomes a simple, routine task.

We hope this guide has been helpful. If you found it useful, consider bookmarking it for future reference, and feel free to share it with others who might need assistance with their HP printer wireless setup.