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How to Change Wifi on a Printer? Printer Wifi Setup Steps

Introduction Wireless printers are one of the most convenient tools in a home or office, but they are also one of the first devices to stop working when your network changes. If you recently got a new router, changed your WiFi password, moved to a different bu

HowToFixWiFi

Introduction

Wireless printers are one of the most convenient tools in a home or office, but they are also one of the first devices to stop working when your network changes. If you recently got a new router, changed your WiFi password, moved to a different building, or switched internet providers, your printer will likely lose its connection. When that happens, print jobs sit in the queue, your computer says the printer is offline, and you are left wondering where to begin.

If you have searched for How to Change Wifi on a Printer?, you are not alone. The process varies by brand and model, and there is no universal button that fixes everything. Some printers have large touchscreens that walk you through setup, while others rely on a few blinking lights and button combinations. Many modern printers also expect you to use a smartphone app or a computer program to manage wireless settings.

This guide covers the complete process. You will learn what information to gather before you start, the most common ways to update a printer’s wireless network, step-by-step instructions for HP, Canon, Epson, and Brother devices, troubleshooting tips for connection failures, and best practices to keep your printer online. Whether you are using a basic inkjet or an all-in-one office printer, the information below should help you get back to printing without calling a technician.

Table of Contents

Why You Might Need to Change WiFi on a Printer

Printers do not automatically remember every network they have ever joined. When the network environment changes, the stored credentials become invalid. The most common reasons to update a printer’s WiFi settings include:

  • You replaced your old router with a new model, which usually creates a new network name or password.
  • Your internet service provider changed your gateway equipment, resetting the default WiFi credentials.
  • You changed your WiFi password for security reasons and need every device to re-authenticate.
  • You moved the printer to a different room, office, or building where it now needs to connect to a separate access point.
  • Your network administrator updated the enterprise WiFi configuration, requiring new authentication details.
  • The printer was reset to factory defaults, erasing all saved wireless profiles.

In most of these cases, the printer will still power on and may even print a network configuration page, but it will not accept new print jobs until it reconnects to the correct wireless network.

Before You Start: What You’ll Need

Gathering the right information before you touch the printer will save time and prevent frustration. You do not need advanced networking knowledge, but you do need a few basic details.

  • Network name (SSID): The exact name of the WiFi network you want the printer to join. Check it on a phone or laptop that is already connected.
  • WiFi password: The network security key. Make sure you have the correct uppercase and lowercase characters.
  • Printer powered on: The printer must be plugged in and ready before you begin any wireless setup.
  • Printer model number: Usually found on a sticker on the back or bottom of the device. This helps if you need to look up model-specific instructions.
  • A computer or mobile device: Some methods require a device on the same network to complete setup or reinstall software.
  • Access to the router: If you plan to use WPS, you need physical access to the router’s WPS button.

It is also helpful to print or write down the printer’s current network configuration page before making changes. That page often shows the current IP address, MAC address, and wireless status, which can be useful for troubleshooting later.

General Steps: How to Change Wifi on a Printer?

Although the exact menu names differ between brands, the general workflow for How to Change Wifi on a Printer? follows the same basic pattern. Understanding this flow makes it easier to navigate unfamiliar screens.

  1. Place the printer within range of your WiFi router. A weak signal during setup can cause the process to fail.
  2. Turn on the printer and make sure it is in a ready state, not displaying an error message.
  3. Access the network or wireless settings menu. This is usually found under Settings, Network Setup, Wireless LAN, or a similar heading.
  4. Choose the option to add a new network, change network, or run the wireless setup wizard.
  5. Select your WiFi network name from the list of available networks. If your network is hidden, you may need to enter the SSID manually.
  6. Enter the WiFi password carefully. Wireless passwords are case-sensitive.
  7. Confirm the settings and wait for the printer to attempt a connection. Many printers print a confirmation page when successful.
  8. Reconnect your computers and mobile devices to the printer if the IP address changed during the process.

If the printer cannot connect, do not repeat the same steps over and over expecting a different result. Move to the troubleshooting section later in this guide to identify whether the issue is the password, the network band, or the printer’s firmware.

Common Methods for Changing Printer WiFi

Printer manufacturers offer several ways to update wireless settings. The method you choose depends on the printer’s interface, your comfort level with technology, and what tools you have available. Below are the five most common approaches.

Method 1: Using the Printer Control Panel

This is the most direct method for printers with a built-in display and buttons. It works well for touchscreen models and for devices with small LCD screens and navigation keys.

  1. Press the Home, Menu, or Settings button on the printer control panel.
  2. Navigate to Network Settings, Wireless Settings, or WiFi Setup.
  3. Select Wireless Setup Wizard, Network Setup, or a similarly named option.
  4. The printer scans for nearby networks. Wait for the list to appear.
  5. Select your network name from the list.
  6. Enter the WiFi password using the on-screen keyboard or physical buttons.
  7. Press OK, Save, or Confirm to apply the settings.
  8. Wait for the connection message. The printer may print a network configuration report automatically.

If your printer does not have a touchscreen, entering a long password with arrow buttons can be tedious. Take your time to avoid typos, since wireless passwords are case-sensitive.

Method 2: Using WPS Push Button

WiFi Protected Setup (WPS) allows you to connect a printer to a router without typing a password. This method is fast, but both the printer and the router must support WPS.

  1. Place the printer near the router so both devices can communicate clearly.
  2. On the printer, open the wireless menu and select WPS Push Button, WPS Connection, or Push Button Configuration.
  3. The printer will tell you to press the WPS button on your router.
  4. Go to the router and press the WPS button. Hold it for a few seconds if necessary.
  5. Return to the printer and wait for the connection confirmation. This usually takes one to two minutes.
  6. Once connected, the printer may print a confirmation page or display a success message.

WPS is convenient, but it is less secure than entering a password manually. If you are in a shared office environment, consider using the control panel method instead.

Method 3: Wireless Setup Wizard

Many modern printers include a guided Wireless Setup Wizard that appears on the control panel the first time the device is powered on, or whenever no network is saved. The wizard is essentially a simplified version of the control panel method.

  1. Start the wizard from the printer’s home screen or network menu.
  2. Follow the on-screen prompts to select your language and region if asked.
  3. Allow the printer to scan for available wireless networks.
  4. Choose your network from the results.
  5. Enter the network password when prompted.
  6. Complete the wizard and save the settings.

The wizard is ideal for first-time setup or after a factory reset because it walks you through every step in order.

Method 4: Changing WiFi via Computer or Mobile App

Some printers are designed to be managed primarily through software rather than the control panel. Manufacturers provide apps such as HP Smart, Canon PRINT, Epson Smart Panel, and Brother iPrint&Scan.

  1. Install the manufacturer’s app on your phone, tablet, or computer.
  2. Make sure your mobile device or computer is connected to the WiFi network you want the printer to use.
  3. Open the app and select Add Printer or Set Up a New Printer.
  4. Follow the prompts to discover the printer on the network.
  5. When asked, enter the WiFi network name and password through the app interface.
  6. Allow the app to send the settings to the printer.
  7. Wait for confirmation that the printer is connected.

This method is often the easiest for users who are uncomfortable navigating small printer screens. It also makes it simple to rename the printer or check ink levels after the WiFi change.

Method 5: Using the Printer’s Embedded Web Server

Most network printers include a built-in web server that you can access through a browser. This method requires knowing the printer’s current IP address.

  1. Print a network configuration page from the printer to find its IP address.
  2. On a computer connected to the same network, open a web browser.
  3. Type the printer’s IP address into the address bar and press Enter.
  4. Log in if prompted. The default username and password are often listed in the printer manual or on a sticker on the device.
  5. Navigate to the Network, Wireless, or TCP/IP settings tab.
  6. Select the option to change the wireless network or update WiFi credentials.
  7. Enter the new SSID and password, then save the changes.
  8. Restart the printer if the interface recommends it.

The embedded web server is powerful but can be intimidating for beginners. Use it when other methods fail or when you need to configure advanced network settings such as a static IP address.

Brand-Specific Instructions

While the general steps above apply broadly, each brand organizes its menus differently. The following sections outline the typical process for the four most common printer manufacturers.

HP Printers

HP printers often use the HP Smart app or the Wireless Setup Wizard on the control panel. Many recent HP models also support WiFi Direct for temporary connections.

  1. On the printer control panel, touch the Wireless icon or open the Setup menu.
  2. Select Network Setup or Wireless Settings, then choose Wireless Setup Wizard.
  3. Select your network name from the list of available SSIDs.
  4. Enter the network password using the touchscreen.
  5. Confirm the settings and wait for the wireless light to stop blinking and remain solid.
  6. If you prefer the app method, download HP Smart, add the printer, and follow the network setup prompts.

HP printers sometimes enter a sleep mode that hides the wireless menu. If you do not see the network options, press the Home button or wake the printer from sleep first.

Canon Printers

Canon printers frequently use a WPS method or a standard setup through the LCD screen. Some Pixma and Maxify models have a dedicated WiFi button.

  1. Press the Setup or Menu button on the printer.
  2. Select Device Settings, then LAN Settings.
  3. Choose Wireless LAN Setup and select Easy Setup or Wireless Setup Wizard.
  4. Choose your access point or router name from the list.
  5. Enter the network key (password) and press OK.
  6. Wait for the Connected message to appear on the screen.

For Canon printers without a screen, press and hold the WiFi button until the power lamp flashes, then press the WPS button on your router within two minutes.

Epson Printers

Epson printers typically use the control panel network menu or the Epson Smart Panel app. The process is similar across WorkForce, Expression, and EcoTank lines.

  1. Press the Home button on the printer control panel.
  2. Select Settings or Network Settings.
  3. Choose WiFi Setup or Wireless LAN Setup.
  4. Select WiFi Setup Wizard.
  5. Choose your network name from the list of detected networks.
  6. Enter the password and confirm.
  7. Wait for the WiFi icon on the display to stop flashing and stay lit.

If your Epson printer has a small screen without a full keyboard, use the arrow buttons to cycle through letters. Be patient, as password entry can take longer than expected.

Brother Printers

Brother printers often have a clear Network menu and support both WPS and manual setup. The interface is consistent across HL, MFC, and DCP series.

  1. Press the Menu button on the control panel.
  2. Use the arrow keys to select Network, then press OK.
  3. Select WLAN, then Setup Wizard.
  4. When prompted to enable WLAN, select Yes.
  5. Choose your network name (SSID) from the list.
  6. Enter the network key and press OK.
  7. Wait for the Connected message and a steady wireless indicator light.

Brother printers often print a connection report automatically after setup. Keep that page for reference if you need to troubleshoot later.

Comparison of WiFi Setup Methods

Not every method works equally well for every situation. The table below compares the most common approaches so you can choose the one that fits your printer and your comfort level.

Method Ease of Use Speed Requirements Best For
Control Panel Medium Medium Printer display and buttons Touchscreen printers
WPS Push Button Easy Fast WPS-enabled router and printer Quick setup without typing
Wireless Setup Wizard Easy Medium Printer control panel First-time or reset setup
Computer or Mobile App Easy Medium Smartphone or computer on same network Users who prefer apps
Embedded Web Server Advanced Slow Printer IP address and browser Advanced network configuration

Troubleshooting Common WiFi Printer Issues

Even when you follow the steps correctly, wireless printers sometimes refuse to connect. Most problems fall into a few predictable categories.

Printer Not Finding the Network

If the printer does not see your WiFi network in the list, first confirm that the router is broadcasting the network name. Some routers hide the SSID by default, which means you must enter it manually. Also check that the printer is close enough to the router. Walls, appliances, and other electronics can weaken the signal during setup.

Wrong Password Error

A wrong password is the most common reason for connection failure. Remember that WiFi passwords are case-sensitive. If you recently changed the password, make sure every device, including the printer, is using the new one. If you are unsure of the password, check the router label or log into the router’s admin page from a computer.

Printer Shows as Offline

After changing WiFi, a printer may appear offline on your computer even though it is connected to the network. This often happens because the printer received a new IP address. Remove the printer from your computer’s device list and add it again, or use the manufacturer’s app to rediscover the printer on the network.

2.4 GHz vs 5 GHz WiFi

Many printers only support the 2.4 GHz wireless band. If your router uses a single network name for both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, the printer may try to connect to the faster band and fail. If possible, temporarily separate the bands in your router settings or connect the printer while it is near the router so it can lock onto the 2.4 GHz signal.

Outdated Printer Firmware

Older printer firmware can struggle with newer router security standards. If the printer connects to other networks but not yours, check the manufacturer’s website for a firmware update. Updating firmware often resolves compatibility issues with modern WiFi routers.

Tips and Best Practices

Changing a printer’s WiFi is not something you should have to do often. These tips will help you complete the process smoothly and reduce the chance of future disconnections.

  • Write down your network name and password before starting, and keep the information near the printer.
  • Place the printer in the same room as the router during setup to ensure a strong signal.
  • Print a network configuration page after the change so you have the new IP address on hand.
  • Use the 2.4 GHz band unless you are certain your printer supports 5 GHz.
  • Keep the printer’s firmware up to date by checking the manufacturer’s support site periodically.
  • If you change your WiFi password again in the future, remember to update the printer along with your phones and laptops.
  • Assign a static IP address to the printer through your router if you want the address to remain the same after network changes.
  • Avoid using WPS in environments where multiple people have physical access to the router, since it can allow unauthorized devices to join the network.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to reinstall printer drivers after changing WiFi?

In most cases, no. Changing the wireless network does not require reinstalling drivers, because the driver communicates with the printer over the network. However, if the printer’s IP address changes, your computer may lose track of it. Removing the printer from your device list and adding it again usually resolves the issue without new driver installation.

Can I change my printer’s WiFi without a computer?

Yes. Most printers with a control panel allow you to change WiFi settings directly on the device. You only need a computer or smartphone if you prefer to use a manufacturer’s app or the embedded web server.

What if I don’t know my WiFi password?

Check the sticker on your router, which often lists the default network name and password. If the password was changed and you do not remember it, log into your router’s administration page from a connected computer, or contact your internet service provider for assistance.

Why won’t my printer connect to 5 GHz WiFi?

Many printers, especially older or budget models, only support 2.4 GHz wireless networks. If your router combines both bands under one name, the printer may fail to connect. Look for a router setting to separate the bands, or connect the printer while it is close enough to receive the 2.4 GHz signal reliably.

How do I find my printer’s IP address?

Print a network configuration page from the printer’s control panel. The page lists the current IP address, subnet mask, and wireless status. You can also find the IP address through the printer’s network settings menu or by checking your router’s list of connected devices.

Do all printers support WPS?

No. WPS is common on many home printers, but some business-class or older models do not include it. Check your printer’s manual or control panel menu for a WPS option before trying this method.

Will changing WiFi affect my printer’s cloud services?

Yes. If your printer uses cloud printing, remote printing, or manufacturer apps, those services rely on an active internet connection. After changing WiFi, you may need to re-enable cloud services or sign in again through the printer’s settings or companion app.

How often should I update my printer’s WiFi settings?

Only when your network changes. There is no need to update WiFi settings on a regular schedule. However, if you replace your router, change your password, or move the printer to a new location, you should update the settings promptly so printing is not interrupted.

Conclusion

Learning How to Change Wifi on a Printer? is a practical skill that saves time and prevents unnecessary service calls. The process usually comes down to gathering your network name and password, choosing the right setup method for your printer, and following the on-screen prompts until the connection is confirmed.

Start with the simplest method available on your device, whether that is the control panel, WPS, or a mobile app. If those options do not work, the embedded web server or brand-specific steps often provide an alternative path. When problems arise, check the password, confirm the printer is on the correct wireless band, and make sure your firmware is current.

Once the printer is back online, print a test page and reconnect your computers and mobile devices. Keeping a record of the new IP address and network settings will make the next change much easier. With the steps in this guide, you should be able to handle wireless printer setup confidently, no matter which brand or model you use.