HP Printer Not Connecting to WiFi – Easy Fix (Step-by-Step)

Is your HP printer not connecting to WiFi? This issue usually happens when the connection between your printer and the WiFi network is misconfigured or interrupted. The issue is not uncommon and can be fixed easily.

If you are facing the same issue repeatedly, we have some simple fixes to resolve it. Try them out to quickly connect your printer to WiFi. Before we dive into the fixes, let’s understand why your HP printer keeps disconnecting from WiFi.

Key Reasons Why HP Printer Fails to Connect to WiFi

If your HP printer won’t connect to a WiFi network or keeps disconnecting from WiFi, it may be due to the following reasons:

• Poor WiFi signal strength
• Outdated printer firmware
• Incorrect or outdated WiFi settings
• Too many devices are connected to the same WiFi network
• Interference from other electronic devices

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Troubleshooting the Issue

When resolving the HP printer wireless connection issue, try to avoid these common mistakes: 

• Neglecting a power cycle: If you don’t perform a quick restart, temporary glitches may persist and cause problems. 
• Using the wrong USB connection: A loose or incompatible USB cable can disrupt the proper setup or communication. 
• Overlooking network band differences: Connecting the printer and device to different (2.4GHz vs 5GHz) bands can cause issues. It may prevent the printer from being detected during setup or printing. 
• Forgetting to set the default printer: Your system might send print jobs to a ghost printer if you haven’t set your printer as the default device. 
• Ignoring firmware updates: If the printer firmware is older, it may cause connection errors and performance issues. 

Initial Checks Before You Start Troubleshooting

Before trying the fixes, check these basic things to avoid unnecessary steps:

• Check if the router is turned on and the WiFi is working properly. 
• Double-check the WiFi password you have entered (avoid any typos or extra spaces). 
• See that the wireless light on the printer is blinking blue. 

How to Fix HP Printer Not Connecting to WiFi 

These methods also help when your HP printer keeps disconnecting from WiFi.

Fix 1: Restart Your Devices 

Here is the most basic and easiest way to fix your HP printer offline WiFi problem: 

1. Disconnect the power cables from the router, printer, and computer.
2. Wait 10 to 30 seconds to clear network errors. 
3. Connect all the cables and restart the devices normally. 
4. Turn on the router first. Wait until it fully boots up, then turn on your computer and printer.

Fix 2: Restore Network Settings

Your HP printer won’t connect to WiFi if it has stored old or incorrect WiFi credentials. So, you must restore network settings; here are the steps to follow: 

1. On the printer control panel, go to the Wireless or Setup menu. 
2. Select “Restore Network Settings” to clear outdated or broken connections.
3. Confirm the reset.

Fix 3: Reconnect Through WPS 

The WPS method is a quick way to connect your printer to WiFi without needing to enter a password. Here’s how to connect via WPS: 

First, you need to check if the router supports WPS or is enabled. To do that: 

1. Check the router for a button labeled “WPS” or sometimes “WiFi.” It is often located on the back or side panel.
2. If you find it, your router supports WPS. 

Also, you can refer to the router’s user manual or the manufacturer’s website to check if it supports WPS. 

Once you have checked this, you can start reconnecting via WPS: 

1. On your printer, press and hold the Wireless button for 3 seconds until you see the light blinking.
2. Press the WPS push button on your router within 2 minutes.
3. Wait for the printer to connect. The wireless light will stop blinking once it establishes the connection. 

Fix 4: Move the Printer Closer to Router

If your printer is too far from the router, this may weaken the WiFi signal and cause connection errors. Here’s what you should do: 

1. Place the printer within 8 meters of the router.
2. Do not place it near metal objects, thick walls, or other electronic devices.
3. Make sure that there are minimal obstructions between your printer and router. 

Fix 5: Run HP Smart App Setup

Using the HP Smart app is one of the simplest methods to reconnect your printer. This is considered the official HP setup tool from which you can expect proper configuration. Follow the steps below: 

1. On your PC, open a browser and search for HP Smart. 
2. Download the application. 
3. Open it and click “Add Printer” or “Set Up a New Printer.”
4. Follow the prompts to connect the printer to your network.
5. Enter your WiFi password when prompted.

Also Read:- HP Printer Offline Fix (Windows & Mac – Easy Guide)

Conclusion 

Apply the troubleshooting methods we have discussed, and you will surely get your HP printer connected in no time. All these fixes are expert-tested and work with almost every HP printer model. Follow each step carefully and avoid skipping any process to ensure the issue is resolved.