Whether you’re working from home, a student needing to print assignments, or just trying to print out a photo, knowing how to connect your HP® printer to Wi-Fi can make all the difference.
Connect with Asurion for quick fixes, top-tier tech care, and expert advice—all in one place. Here’s how to connect an HP printer to a wireless network.
Before you start the HP printer Wi-Fi setup
Before you connect your HP printer to Wi-Fi, it’s important to ensure that it supports wireless connections. Not all HP printers, especially older models, come with Wi-Fi capability. Check the printer's manual or the manufacturer's website to confirm that your printer supports Wi-Fi.
You should also verify that your Wi-Fi network is working properly and is compatible with the printer.
How to connect your HP printer to Wi-Fi
With most HP printers, you’ll have a few ways to connect to Wi-Fi. Follow these steps to set up your HP printer on your wireless network.
Use the HP Smart app
One of the easiest ways to connect your HP printer to a Wi-Fi network is to use the HP Smart app, which is available on computers and mobile devices. This app simplifies the setup process and gives you access to additional features, like scanning and checking ink levels.
- Download the HP Smart app from the Windows™ Store, the App Store®, or Google® Play.
- Make sure your printer is turned on. Then, open the app and click Add Printer. The app will automatically search for nearby HP printers.
- Select your printer from the list, then follow the on-screen instructions. You’ll likely need to provide your Wi-Fi network name, which is called the SSID, and password.
- Once connected, the app should confirm the connection. You can now print directly from the app.
Use the printer control panel
If you don’t want to use an app, you can connect your HP printer to Wi-Fi manually through the printer’s control panel. This method works well for printers with a touchscreen or buttons.
- Turn on your HP printer and go to the Wireless Settings menu. This can usually be found under the Network or Wireless section on the control panel.
- Select Wi-Fi Setup Wizard or Wireless Setup, depending on your printer model.
- The printer will search for available Wi-Fi networks. Once your network appears, select it and enter your Wi-Fi password when prompted.
- Once connected, the printer will display a confirmation message.
Using Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS)
If your router supports Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS), connecting your HP printer to Wi-Fi can be even faster. WPS allows devices to connect to the network without needing a password.
- Turn on your HP printer, and make sure it's close to your router.
- Press and hold the Wireless button on the printer until the wireless light begins to blink.
- Go to your router, and press the WPS button.
- The printer and router will communicate, and once connected, the wireless light on the printer will stop blinking and remain solid.
- Test the connection by printing a wireless test report from the printer’s control panel.