Add an HP Printer to a Wireless Network

HP printers can be added to your network in a number of ways, depending on the model of printer and your network configuration. We'll show you a few ways to do that. Before you get started, make sure your printer, computer, and network are turned on, functioning properly, and ready for action.

Steps

Using HP Auto Wireless Connect

  1. Verify that your configuration is compatible with HP Auto Wireless Connect. In order to use this method, your computer and network configuration must meet the following requirements:
    • Your computer must be running Windows Vista or later (PCs), or OS X 10.5 (Leopard) and later (Macintosh).
    • Your computer is connected to an 802.11 b/g/n wireless router over a 2.4 GHz connection. 5.0GHz networks are not currently supported by HP (1/1/2013)
    • Your computer's OS is in control of the wireless adapter
    • Your computer uses a wireless connection to your network and the operating system
    • Your computer uses a dynamic IP address, not a static one.
  2. Download the latest printer software from HP. The address is http://www.hp.com/go/customercare. Ensure that the software you choose is meant for both your printer model and your computer's operating system.
  3. Run the installer. Follow the on-screen instructions until the installer prompts you for the connection type. Select 'Network (Ethernet/Wireless)"' as the connection type, then choose Yes, send my wireless settings to the printer (recommended)".
    • The installer will perform the rest of the setup automatically.
    • Note: during setup of HP Auto Wireless Connect, your computer will be temporarily disconnected from the internet. Make sure you have finished any online downloads or completed other internet activity before proceeding.
    • Note: if this options is not offered during installation or if it is not successful, you will be guided to use another wireless setup method.

Wi-Fi Protected Setup Pushbutton Mode

  1. Verify that your configuration meets the basic conditions:
    • Your printer and wireless router must support WPS pushbutton mode. As there are many makes and models, you will need to consult the manuals of both the printer and router to verify compatibility.
    • The wireless router must have a physical WPS pushbutton available.
    • Your network must use WPA or WPA2 security protocols. WPS wireless routers, in general, won't connect with the WPS method if set up using WEP security, or no security at all. Also, WPS routers won't connect using the WPS method if you're using the router's default network name and no security.
  2. Start the WPS pushbutton mode on your printer. As setting this mode depends on the particular model of printer you are using, consult the manual for details on how to accomplish that.
    • Once WPS mode is engaged on your printer, press the WPS button on your router. You must do this within two minutes.

The Wireless Setup Wizard

  1. Get the necessary information. You will need to know your network name and your WEP/WPA password.
  2. Set up your printer. On the printer's control panel, press the Setup button. Choose the Network menu option.
    • The Wireless Setup Wizard will display a list of wireless networks in the area. Choose your wireless network's name from the list.
    • If your network is not listed, scroll to the bottom of the list of networks, then enter your network name. Note that the network name is case sensitive.
  3. Enter your WEP key or WPA passphrase. Like the network name, you must enter the password exactly, including upper and lowercase characters.
    • Your printer should now connect to your wireless network. If not, print a Wireless Network Test report that may help you find the problem.

USB Setup

  1. Follow the prompts. When using this method, you'll need to temporarily connect a USB cable between your printer and computer.
    • Connect and disconnect the USB cable only when prompted by the software. It will guide you through connecting and configuring your printer's wireless connection.
    • In some cases, depending on your printer model, the software may automatically discover your wireless settings.
    • If this is a first-time installation of your printer, the software may not find your printer on the network. If this is the case, the software will guide you through the proper steps for creating a wireless connection to the printer.



Tips

  • Before beginning, download the latest printer software from HP. The address is http://www.hp.com/go/customercare. Ensure that the software you choose is meant for both your printer model and your computer's operating system.
  • If your firewall produces messages during the connection process, choose "Always permit/Allow" so that your software installation can proceed.
  • In Linux you will need the package hplip (an abbreviation of HP Linux Imaging and Printing). Then, run hp-setup as root.

Warnings

  • Many wireless printers do not have a MAC address, so you may need to disable MAC filtering on your router before establishing your connection.

Things You'll Need

  • Computer
  • Wireless router
  • Wireless printer
  • USB cable (if needed)

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Sources and Citations

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