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Setup and Configuration

How to Change Wifi on Hp Printer? HP Printer Network Update

Introduction Changing the wireless network on an HP printer is one of those tasks that seems simple until you are staring at a blinking wireless light and an offline print queue. Whether you have just installed a new router, updated your WiFi password, moved t

HowToFixWiFi

Introduction

Changing the wireless network on an HP printer is one of those tasks that seems simple until you are staring at a blinking wireless light and an offline print queue. Whether you have just installed a new router, updated your WiFi password, moved to a different office, or switched internet service providers, your printer needs to know how to find the new network before it can accept print jobs from your computer, phone, or tablet.

If you are searching for How to Change Wifi on Hp Printer?, you are not alone. HP makes a wide range of printers, from basic DeskJet models for home use to advanced OfficeJet and LaserJet Pro machines for small businesses. Because of that variety, there is no single button that works on every device. Some printers have large touchscreens, others have only a few buttons, and many modern models are designed to be managed through the HP Smart app instead of the control panel.

This guide walks you through every reliable method for changing the WiFi network on an HP printer. You will learn how to use the HP Smart app, the printer’s built-in control panel, WPS push-button setup, and the HP Embedded Web Server. We also cover what to do after a router or password change, how to troubleshoot common connection problems, and best practices for keeping your printer online.

By the end of this article, you will know exactly which method fits your printer model and how to complete the network update without calling technical support.

Table of Contents

Why You Might Need to Change WiFi on Your HP Printer

Most HP printers connect to a wireless network during the initial setup. Once that connection is saved, the printer usually remembers it until something changes. You will need to update the WiFi settings if any of the following situations apply:

  • You replaced your old router with a new model, even if you kept the same network name and password.
  • You changed your WiFi network name (SSID) or password for security reasons.
  • You moved the printer to a different location where it now needs to connect to a separate access point or mesh network.
  • You switched internet service providers and received a new gateway or modem-router combo.
  • The printer was reset to factory defaults, which erases all saved network credentials.
  • You are setting up a previously used printer that belonged to someone else.

It is worth noting that changing the WiFi on your printer does not affect installed drivers or print queues on your computer. However, if the printer receives a new IP address from the router, some computers may temporarily lose communication until the printer port is updated or the printer is re-added. We cover how to handle that later in the troubleshooting section.

What You Need Before You Start

Before you attempt any of the methods below, gather the following items. Having everything ready will make the process faster and reduce frustration.

Network Requirements

  • Network name (SSID): The exact name of your WiFi network. Check it on a phone or laptop that is already connected.
  • WiFi password: The network security key. Passwords are case-sensitive, so be careful with uppercase and lowercase letters.
  • 2.4 GHz band: Most HP printers support only 2.4 GHz wireless networks. If your router uses a combined name for both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, you may need to temporarily split them or connect the printer to the 2.4 GHz signal.
  • Router within range: Place the printer close enough to the router to get a strong signal during setup. You can move it to its permanent location afterward.

Printer Model Considerations

  • Touchscreen printers: Models such as HP OfficeJet Pro 9000 series, ENVY 6000 series with display, and LaserJet Pro MFP models often have full-color touchscreens that make wireless setup straightforward.
  • Button-based printers: Entry-level DeskJet and some ENVY models have only a few buttons and small indicator lights. These usually rely on the HP Smart app or WPS for network changes.
  • HP Smart app compatibility: Most HP printers released in the last several years support the HP Smart app for iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac. Older models may not appear in the app.

Method 1: Using the HP Smart App

The HP Smart app is often the easiest way to change WiFi on an HP printer, especially if your printer does not have a touchscreen. The app walks you through network selection and password entry using your phone or computer.

Step-by-Step for Android and iOS

  1. Download and install the HP Smart app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
  2. Open the app and create an HP account or sign in if you already have one.
  3. Tap the plus sign (+) or “Add Printer” to set up your printer. Make sure your mobile device is connected to the same WiFi network you want the printer to use.
  4. Select your HP printer from the list of detected devices. If the printer is not listed, make sure it is powered on and within range of your router.
  5. Follow the on-screen prompts to connect the printer to your wireless network. You may need to enter the WiFi password when prompted.
  6. Once the app confirms the connection, print a test page to verify that everything works.

Step-by-Step for Windows and Mac

  1. Download HP Smart from the Microsoft Store (Windows) or Apple App Store (Mac), or install it from the HP website.
  2. Open the app and sign in to your HP account.
  3. Click “Add Printer” or the plus icon to detect your printer on the network.
  4. Select your printer from the results.
  5. Choose the option to update wireless settings or connect to a new network.
  6. Enter your WiFi network name and password when asked.
  7. Complete the setup and print a test page from your computer.

If your printer was previously connected to a different network, the HP Smart app may detect it as “offline” or show the old network name. In that case, select the printer, choose printer settings, and look for “Network setup” or “Wireless setup wizard” to enter the new credentials.

Method 2: Using the Printer Control Panel (Touchscreen Models)

HP printers with touchscreen displays allow you to change WiFi settings directly on the device. This is useful if you do not want to install an app or if the printer is not being detected by your phone.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Make sure the printer is turned on and in a ready state.
  2. On the printer’s home screen, touch the wireless icon or the Settings menu. The exact label varies by model but often says “Network,” “Wireless,” or shows a WiFi symbol.
  3. Select “Wireless Setup Wizard” or “Network Setup.”
  4. The printer will scan for available networks. Wait a few seconds for the list to appear.
  5. Tap your WiFi network name from the list.
  6. If your network does not appear, choose “Enter new network name” or “Manual setup” and type the SSID exactly as it appears on your router.
  7. Enter the WiFi password using the on-screen keyboard. Remember that passwords are case-sensitive.
  8. Confirm the settings and wait for the printer to attempt the connection.
  9. When the connection succeeds, the wireless icon on the display should stop blinking and remain steady.
  10. Print a network configuration page or a test page to confirm the printer is online.

Some touchscreen HP printers also have a “Restore Network Defaults” option under network settings. Use this only if you are having persistent connection issues and want to start the wireless setup from scratch.

Method 3: Using the Printer Control Panel (Non-Touchscreen Models)

Many entry-level HP DeskJet and ENVY printers do not have a touchscreen. On these models, changing WiFi usually requires a combination of button presses and the HP Smart app. You cannot typically type a WiFi password using only the printer buttons.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Turn on the printer and make sure it is in a ready state, not in the middle of a print job.
  2. Press and hold the Wireless button and the Cancel button (or the Information button, depending on the model) at the same time for about three to five seconds.
  3. Release the buttons when the wireless light starts blinking. This puts the printer in wireless setup mode.
  4. Open the HP Smart app on your phone or computer.
  5. Add the printer if it is not already listed, then follow the prompts to connect it to your new WiFi network.
  6. Enter the network name and password in the app when prompted.
  7. Wait for the printer’s wireless light to stop blinking and remain solid, indicating a successful connection.

If the button combination does not work, check your printer’s user guide. Different models use different sequences, such as holding the Wireless button for five seconds or pressing Wireless and Resume together.

Method 4: Using WPS Push Button Setup

WiFi Protected Setup (WPS) allows you to connect a printer to a router without entering a password. This method works only if your router has a physical WPS button or supports WPS through its software interface.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Place the printer near the router so it can receive a strong signal.
  2. On the printer, press and hold the Wireless button for about three seconds until the wireless light begins to blink. On some models, you may need to press Wireless and then press WPS within two minutes.
  3. Within two minutes, press the WPS button on your router. The router’s WPS light should start blinking.
  4. Wait for the printer and router to exchange credentials. This usually takes about one to two minutes.
  5. When the printer’s wireless light stops blinking and stays solid, the connection is complete.
  6. Print a network configuration page to verify the new IP address and network status.

WPS is convenient, but it is less secure than entering a password manually. If you are concerned about network security, disable WPS on your router after connecting the printer.

Method 5: Using the HP Embedded Web Server (EWS)

The HP Embedded Web Server is a built-in configuration page that you can access through a web browser. This method works best when the printer is already connected to a network and you know its current IP address. It is useful for changing network settings without installing extra software.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Print a network configuration page from the printer’s control panel to find its current IP address.
  2. Make sure your computer is connected to the same network as the printer.
  3. Open a web browser and type the printer’s IP address into the address bar, then press Enter.
  4. The HP Embedded Web Server page should load. If prompted for a login, try the default credentials. Many HP printers use a blank username and “admin” as the password, or no password at all. Check your printer documentation if this does not work.
  5. Navigate to the Network, Wireless, or Connectivity tab.
  6. Look for “Wireless Setup Wizard,” “Network Settings,” or a similar option.
  7. Select your new WiFi network from the list or enter the SSID manually.
  8. Type the WiFi password and save the changes.
  9. The printer may restart its wireless module. Wait a minute, then print a test page to confirm the connection.

If you cannot access the EWS page, the printer may have lost its network connection entirely. In that case, use the HP Smart app or control panel method instead.

How to Reconnect After a Router or Password Change

When you replace a router or change your WiFi password, your HP printer will not automatically reconnect. It still has the old credentials saved and will show as offline until you update them.

Follow these steps after a router or password change:

  1. Write down the new network name and password before you begin.
  2. Turn the printer off, wait ten seconds, and turn it back on. This clears any temporary connection errors.
  3. Use one of the methods described above—HP Smart app, control panel, WPS, or EWS—to enter the new network credentials.
  4. If your computer was printing to the printer using an IP address, the printer may receive a new IP address from the new router. You may need to update the printer port on your computer or remove and re-add the printer in Windows Settings or Mac System Settings.
  5. Print a test page from each device that uses the printer.

If your new router uses a single network name for both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, the printer might connect to the wrong band or fail to connect altogether. In that case, log into your router settings and temporarily assign separate names to the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, connect the printer to the 2.4 GHz band, and then decide whether to keep them separate or recombine them.

Troubleshooting Common WiFi Issues

Even after following the setup steps, you may run into problems. Here are the most common issues and how to fix them.

Printer Not Finding the Network

  • Move the printer closer to the router. Weak signals can prevent the printer from seeing the network.
  • Confirm that your router is broadcasting a 2.4 GHz network. Many HP printers do not support 5 GHz-only networks.
  • Restart both the printer and the router, then try the setup again.
  • Check if the network name is hidden. If your SSID is hidden, use manual setup to enter it exactly.

Wrong Password Error

  • Double-check the password for typos. Remember that WiFi passwords are case-sensitive.
  • If you recently changed the router password, make sure you are entering the new one, not the old one.
  • Try connecting another device, such as a phone, to the same network to verify the password works.

Printer Offline After WiFi Change

  • Print a network configuration page to see if the printer has a valid IP address. If the IP address starts with 169.254, it has not connected to the router.
  • On your computer, go to printer settings and check if the printer is set to “Use Printer Offline.” Disable that option if it is checked.
  • Remove the printer from your computer and add it again using the new IP address or hostname.

Connection Keeps Dropping

  • Assign a static IP address to the printer through your router’s DHCP reservation settings. This prevents the printer’s address from changing.
  • Update the printer firmware through the HP Smart app or HP website.
  • Reduce wireless interference by moving the printer away from microwaves, cordless phones, and thick walls.

Comparison: Connection Methods at a Glance

Not every method works on every printer. Use this table to decide which approach fits your situation.

Method Best For Requires Password Entry Requires App Works on Touchscreen Printers Works on Button-Only Printers
HP Smart App Most users, especially mobile setup Yes Yes Yes Yes
Control Panel (Touchscreen) Quick changes without a computer Yes No Yes No
Control Panel (Button-Based) Entering wireless setup mode No (via app) Yes No Yes
WPS Push Button Fast connection without typing password No No Yes Yes
HP Embedded Web Server Advanced users with known IP address Yes No Yes Yes

Tips and Best Practices for HP Printer WiFi

Keeping your HP printer connected reliably takes more than just the initial setup. Follow these best practices to avoid future connection problems.

  • Use a static IP address: Log into your router and set up DHCP reservation for your printer. This ensures the printer always gets the same IP address, so your computers do not lose track of it.
  • Keep firmware updated: HP releases firmware updates that improve wireless stability. Check for updates through the HP Smart app or the HP support website.
  • Place the printer in a central location: Avoid putting the printer inside a cabinet or far from the router. Walls and furniture can weaken the signal.
  • Document your network settings: Keep a record of your WiFi name and password in a secure place so you can quickly reconnect the printer after changes.
  • Use 2.4 GHz for the printer: If your router supports both bands, connect the printer to 2.4 GHz for better range and compatibility.
  • Restart periodically: If you notice the printer going offline often, restart the printer and router once every few weeks to clear temporary glitches.
  • Print a network configuration page: After any network change, print this page to verify the IP address, signal strength, and connection status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to reinstall printer drivers after changing WiFi?

Usually, no. Changing the WiFi network does not require new drivers. However, if the printer gets a new IP address, your computer may not be able to communicate with it until you update the printer port or re-add the printer.

Can I change WiFi without a computer?

Yes. If your printer has a touchscreen, you can change the network directly on the display. If it does not have a touchscreen, you can use the HP Smart app on a smartphone or tablet.

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

Most HP consumer printers support only 2.4 GHz wireless networks. If your router combines both bands under one name, the printer may fail to connect. Try separating the bands in your router settings or move closer so the printer can grab the 2.4 GHz signal.

How do I find my HP 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 gateway. You can also find it in the HP Smart app under printer settings.

What if my router does not have a WPS button?

Use the HP Smart app, the printer control panel, or the HP Embedded Web Server to connect manually. WPS is optional and not required for WiFi setup.

My printer shows offline after changing WiFi. How do I fix it?

First, confirm the printer is connected to the correct network by printing a network configuration page. Then, on your computer, open printer settings, select your HP printer, and make sure “Use Printer Offline” is not selected. If the IP address changed, remove the printer and add it again using the new address.

Conclusion

Learning How to Change Wifi on Hp Printer? does not have to be complicated. Whether you prefer the convenience of the HP Smart app, the direct control of a touchscreen panel, the simplicity of WPS, or the advanced options of the Embedded Web Server, there is a method that works for your specific printer model.

The key is to have your network name and password ready, place the printer within range of your router, and follow the steps carefully. If something goes wrong, the troubleshooting tips in this guide should help you get back online quickly.

Once your printer is connected to the new network, take a moment to set up a static IP address and print a test page from all your devices. These small steps will save you time the next time you change routers or update your WiFi password.

If you still cannot get your HP printer online after trying these methods, consult your printer’s user guide or contact HP support for model-specific assistance.