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Wireless connections provide various benefits to the tech world, ensuring people conduct their duties conveniently. If you work in a busy office, you know the importance of having a functional printer. A wireless HP printer is one of the best options for printing your work. However, as with any type of technology, connectivity problems can occur from time to time.
Sometimes, the printer may fail to connect to the internet, causing frustration. You will get stuck with a bunch of documents to print. However, there are simple ways to troubleshoot the problems. You can resolve them on time and continue your work as usual.
So, why is your HP printer not connecting to Wi-Fi?
There may be several reasons why your HP printer is not connecting to WiFi. Connectivity issues are the most common cause. These include a malfunctioning router, the printer is not within the WiFi range, an incorrect password, something is blocking the connection (a firewall or antivirus software), etc.
The easiest solution to a printer not connecting to Wi-Fi is to restart it. Also, restart your computer or connected mobile device to help clear the errors. You can also restore the printer’s default setup by selecting Wireless or Setup menu>Network setup> Restore Network Settings.
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Key Takeaways
- Always ensure the printer and Wi-Fi router are turned on.
- Ensure the printer is within the range of the Wi-Fi connection.
- Keep the printer drivers updated.
- When connecting the printer to a mobile device, ensure they share the same Wi-Fi connection.
Why Is Your HP Printer Not Connecting to Wi-Fi? Possible Causes
Your HP printer may fail to connect to Wi-Fi due to various reasons, including:
1. Outdated Printer Drivers
Outdated or missing printer drivers can cause problems connecting to Wi-Fi. The latest version update ensures your printer connects to other devices and gives you the best possible experience. You can update printer drivers manually or automatically.
For manual updates, visit the HP website and download the latest printer driver’s version. Always ensure it is compatible with your operating system.
2. Wi-Fi Connectivity Issues
Your Wi-Fi router may need certain settings, depending on the internet service provider and the connection speed. The router may drop the connection frequently if you don’t add the right configuration settings. It may even fail to connect completely.
The internet service provider usually provides the necessary information, like a static IP address.
Related: How to Print From iPad to HP Printer
3. The Printer Is Not Within Range of Wi-Fi
Your printer must get a signal from the Wi-Fi router for an effective connection. Place the printer somewhere it receives the Wi-Fi signal without interference. Ideally, it should be somewhere near the Wi-Fi router.
Consider all the devices needing a Wi-Fi signal when setting up the router. You can also have multiple routers.
4. Incorrect Wi-Fi Password or Network Credentials
Be careful when entering the Wi-Fi password because sometimes you can enter the wrong one, especially if you have multiple routers at home or the office. Ensure the password you enter belongs to the router in range.
5. Firewall or Antivirus Software Blocking Connection
An antivirus program or firewall may block your connection to the internet, especially after an update. You may also change the settings unknowingly, resulting in a blocked connection. The best way to handle this is to restore the antivirus default settings. You can also disable it.
6. Wi-Fi Router Malfunction
Your router has built-in firmware to help with the operation, security, and device setup. You can access the firmware through your computer after configuration. Always keep it updated.
It is also a common occurrence for your internet to go down. The easiest solution is to unplug your Wi-Fi router from the power socket and then plug it back in. You can wait for at least 30 seconds (it resets the connectivity issues) before connecting it back.
Related: 5 Best Printers for College Students
9 Troubleshooting Steps to Resolve HP Printer Wi-Fi Connectivity Issues
You can follow a few steps to troubleshoot issues when your HP printer isn’t connecting to Wi-Fi. You don’t need to be a technician because the steps are not complex.
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Here are 9 ways to resolve Wi-Fi connectivity issues for your HP printer:
- Ensure the printer and Wi-Fi router are turned on. If one of them isn’t turned on, the printer won’t connect to Wi-Fi.
- Verify the printer is within range of the Wi-Fi network. Your printer should be near the Wi-Fi router. Placing the printer too far from the router will lead to a poor connection, causing trouble.
- Restart the printer and Wi-Fi router. A simple solution like switching off the Wi-Fi router and printer works wonders. Once you switch them off, let them rest for 30 to 60 seconds before switching them back on.
- Ensure the Wi-Fi password or network credentials are correct. You cannot connect to the Wi-Fi if you enter the wrong password credentials. Always counter-check the details before connecting.
- Disable firewall or antivirus software temporarily. Your firewall or antivirus may block Wi-Fi connection. It may result from an update, or maybe you meddled with the settings (knowingly or unknowingly). You can disable it temporarily to connect your HP printer, then connect later.
- Check for and install any printer driver updates. Always keep the printer drivers updated because they are vital for the overall operation and security of the printer.
- Reset the printer’s network settings. Restoring the printer to its default network settings helps resolve network issues. You can perform an overall factory data reset.
- Change the Wi-Fi channel on the router. If there are many Wi-Fi signals around you, the speed of your Wi-Fi channel may be slow. You can change channels to select a less crowded frequency and improve your Wi-Fi speed.
- Contact HP support for assistance.
Related: How to Bypass HP Printer Cartridge Error
Further Tips to Improve HP Printer Wi-Fi Connectivity
Consider the following tips to improve the Wi-Fi connectivity of your HP printer:
- Install the latest firmware updates for your Wi-Fi router. You can set up automatic firmware updates to save time and ensure your router works effectively.Â
- Purchase a Wi-Fi extender. If you cannot place the printer close to the Wi-Fi router, you can buy a Wi-Fi extender to ensure a strong connection.Â
- Set up a static IP address for the printer. A static IP address will help you enjoy a consistent connection even if you purchase a new router. Your printer uses the same IP address, and you can access it from various devices at the office.Â
Related: How to Make Generic Ink Cartridges Work on an HP Printer?
Other Issues With HP Printer
Your HP printer may show other issues, including:
HP Printer Not Detecting Wi-Fi
Your printer may say offline and fail to detect Wi-Fi network for various reasons, including:
- Being far away from the Wi-Fi router. You must ensure it is within range of the connection.
- Outdated drivers must be updated. The best way is to set up automatic updates.
HP Printer Says Not Connected to the Internet, but It Is
The router firmware helps with the operation of the router. It must be up-to-date. Your HP printer may fail to recognize the Wi-Fi connection if the firmware gets outdated.
The printer drivers are also essential for connection with the Wi-Fi network. Always ensure that they are up-to-date.
HP Printer Not Connecting to Phone
If your printer doesn’t connect to your phone, ensure that the phone and the printer are connected to the same Wi-Fi connection. You can then restart the phone and printer. If the problem persists, restart the router.
Image by Hp
Related: How to Change Ink in HP Printer?
Why Is My HP Printer Not Connecting to Wi-Fi? FAQs
Why Is My HP Printer Connected but Not Printing?
Your HP printer may be connected but not printing for various reasons. Your Wi-Fi connection may be poor, making it difficult for the printer to function. Also, if you add too many documents to the printer queue, your printer will be overwhelmed and won’t print any of them. Your printer may also have outdated drivers that need updating before printing.
Why Is My Printer Not Connecting to Wi-Fi?
Your printer may not connect to Wi-Fi if:
- The printer is not within range of the Wi-Fi connection, meaning you must move it closer to the Wi-Fi router.
- Outdated printer drivers that require an update
- Outdated Wi-Fi router firmware that requires an update
Why Is My HP Printer Not Connecting to My Computer?
Your printer may fail to connect to your computer if the wireless signal is not switched on or when connected to a different network than the computer. It may also be a slight problem in connection that needs you to disconnect and reconnect the printer to the computer.
Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners, select your printer, and remove it. Once disconnected, wait for about 15 seconds, then re-add it.
Why Is My HP Printer Offline?
Your HP printer may show that it’s offline if it fails to communicate with your computer. The reason may be an unstable Wi-Fi connection or outdated printer drivers. Always ensure the drivers are up-to-date.
How Do I Get My HP Printer to Recognize My Wireless Network?
You can get your printer to recognize your wireless network in a few steps.
- Step 1: Ensure the printer is near the Wi-Fi router
- Step 2: Open the Network or Wireless Settings menu
- Step 3: Select the Wireless Setup Wizard
- Step 4: Select your network and enter the password for the connection
Related: How to Add & Connect a Printer to iPhone?
Conclusion
Once you understand why your HP printer doesn’t connect to the Wi-Fi network, you can resolve the issue quickly. The most common causes are outdated printer drivers, router firmware, an antivirus update, or an unstable internet connection. Ensure everything is up-to-date. You can also resolve the problem by switching off the devices, then getting them back on.
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