In this digital age, wireless printing has become a norm in many households and offices. Printing devices have evolved to keep up with the changing times, and the HP DeskJet series is one of the most popular and reliable options available. However, connecting these devices to a WiFi network can sometimes be a daunting task, especially for those who are not tech-savvy. The good news is that you don’t necessarily need a computer to connect your HP DeskJet printer to WiFi. In this article, we will guide you through the process of connecting your HP DeskJet printer to WiFi without using a computer.
Requirements and Preparation
Before we dive into the steps, make sure you have the following requirements:
- HP DeskJet printer
- WiFi router
- The WiFi network name (SSID) and password
- The HP DeskJet printer’s control panel
If your HP DeskJet printer does not have a touchscreen control panel, you can use the buttons on the printer to navigate through the menu. It’s also essential to ensure that your WiFi router is working properly and broadcasting the WiFi signal.
Method 1: Using the HP DeskJet Printer’s Control Panel
Most HP DeskJet printers have a control panel that allows you to set up and manage the printer’s settings, including WiFi connectivity. Here’s how to connect your HP DeskJet printer to WiFi using the control panel:
Step 1: Turn On the Printer and Access the Menu
Turn on your HP DeskJet printer and wait for it to fully boot up. Once the printer is on, navigate to the control panel and locate the “Setup” or “Settings” button.
Using a Touchscreen Control Panel
If your HP DeskJet printer has a touchscreen control panel, follow these steps:
- Tap on the “Setup” or “Settings” icon on the touchscreen.
- Scroll down and select “Network” or “Wireless Settings.”
- Choose “Wireless Setup Wizard” or “WiFi Setup.”
Using a Button-Operated Control Panel
If your HP DeskJet printer does not have a touchscreen control panel, follow these steps:
- Press the “Setup” or “Settings” button on the printer.
- Use the navigation buttons to select “Network” or “Wireless Settings.”
- Choose “Wireless Setup Wizard” or “WiFi Setup” using the navigation buttons.
Step 2: Select the WiFi Network and Enter the Password
Once you have selected the “Wireless Setup Wizard” or “WiFi Setup” option, the printer will search for available WiFi networks in range. Select your WiFi network name (SSID) from the list of available networks.
Important: Make sure to select the correct WiFi network name (SSID) and enter the correct password to avoid connectivity issues.
If prompted, enter your WiFi network password using the control panel’s keypad or touchscreen.
Step 3: Confirm the WiFi Connection
Once you have entered the WiFi password, the printer will attempt to connect to the WiFi network. Wait for the printer to confirm the connection. You can check the printer’s control panel for the WiFi connection status.
Tip: If you encounter any issues during the WiFi setup process, restart the printer and try again.
Method 2: Using the HP Smart App
If your HP DeskJet printer came with the HP Smart app, you can use it to connect the printer to WiFi without using a computer. The HP Smart app is available for both Android and iOS devices.
Step 1: Download and Install the HP Smart App
If you haven’t already, download and install the HP Smart app from the Google Play Store (for Android devices) or the App Store (for iOS devices).
Step 2: Launch the HP Smart App and Select the Printer
Launch the HP Smart app on your mobile device. The app will automatically detect the printer and display it on the screen. Select your HP DeskJet printer from the list of available printers.
Step 3: Set Up the WiFi Connection
Once you have selected the printer, the app will guide you through the WiFi setup process. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the WiFi setup process.
Using the HP Smart App’s WiFi Setup Wizard
The HP Smart app’s WiFi setup wizard will search for available WiFi networks in range. Select your WiFi network name (SSID) from the list of available networks. If prompted, enter your WiFi network password using the app’s keyboard.
Step 4: Confirm the WiFi Connection
Once you have entered the WiFi password, the app will attempt to connect the printer to the WiFi network. Wait for the printer to confirm the connection. You can check the app for the WiFi connection status.
Tip: If you encounter any issues during the WiFi setup process, restart the printer and try again.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
While connecting your HP DeskJet printer to WiFi, you may encounter some common issues. Here are some troubleshooting tips:
Printer Not Connecting to WiFi
If your printer is not connecting to WiFi, check the following:
- Ensure that the WiFi router is working properly and broadcasting the WiFi signal.
- Check that the WiFi network name (SSID) and password are correct.
- Restart the printer and try again.
Printer Not Printing Wirelessly
If your printer is not printing wirelessly, check the following:
- Ensure that the printer is connected to the correct WiFi network.
- Check that the printer’s WiFi settings are enabled.
- Restart the printer and try again.
Conclusion
Connecting your HP DeskJet printer to WiFi without using a computer is a straightforward process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily set up your printer for wireless printing. Remember to ensure that your WiFi router is working properly and broadcasting the WiFi signal, and that the WiFi network name (SSID) and password are correct. If you encounter any issues during the setup process, try restarting the printer and troubleshooting common issues. With these simple steps, you can enjoy seamless wireless printing with your HP DeskJet printer.
What is the initial step to connect the HP DeskJet printer to WiFi without a computer?
The initial step to connect the HP DeskJet printer to WiFi without a computer is to ensure the printer is turned on and the WiFi is enabled on your mobile device or tablet. This connection method often utilizes a mobile app specifically designed for your printer model.
To begin the process, navigate to the control panel on your HP DeskJet printer and locate the ‘Settings’ or ‘Wireless’ option. Select it to proceed with enabling the wireless connection. Make sure your mobile device or tablet and printer are in close proximity to each other for a stable connection.
How to download and set up the HP Smart app for mobile devices?
The HP Smart app can be downloaded from the Google Play Store for Android devices or the Apple App Store for iOS devices. Once downloaded, launch the app, and it will guide you through the setup process. You may need to create an account or sign in if you already have one.
During the setup process, the app will request permission to access your device’s location and WiFi. Granting these permissions allows the app to locate nearby printers and establish a connection. After setting up the app, it will detect your HP DeskJet printer and guide you through the wireless connection process.
What is the next step after setting up the HP Smart app?
The next step after setting up the HP Smart app is to add your HP DeskJet printer to the app. Open the app, click on the ‘Add Printer’ or ‘+’ symbol, and select ‘Set up a new printer’. The app will begin searching for nearby printers.
Once the app detects your HP DeskJet printer, it will display the printer model and require you to confirm the device. Select your printer model and proceed with the in-app instructions. The app will prompt you to select your WiFi network and enter the network password.
How to connect the HP DeskJet printer to the WiFi network using the WPS method?
To connect the HP DeskJet printer to the WiFi network using the WPS method, navigate to the control panel on the printer and access the ‘Settings’ or ‘Wireless’ option. Select ‘WPS’ and press the ‘WPS’ button on your router. This will initiate the automatic connection process.
The printer’s display will show a spinning wheel until the connection is established. Once connected, your printer will display a confirmation message, indicating it has successfully connected to the WiFi network using the WPS method. You can now use the mobile app to print or scan wirelessly.
What to do if the WPS method does not work?
If the WPS method does not work, ensure both the router and the printer have WPS functionality enabled. Also, ensure you pressed the WPS buttons on both devices simultaneously or within 2 minutes of each other. If the issue persists, you can try restarting both the router and printer and attempting the WPS method again.
If the WPS method still fails, consider using the ‘Wireless Setup Wizard’ on the printer’s control panel. This method involves manually entering your WiFi network’s name and password to establish the connection. Refer to the printer’s manual for detailed instructions on the Wireless Setup Wizard.
Can I connect multiple devices to the HP DeskJet printer using WiFi?
Yes, you can connect multiple devices to the HP DeskJet printer using WiFi. The HP Smart app allows multiple devices to connect and print wirelessly from the same printer. This feature is ideal for shared workspaces, home offices, or families who have multiple devices.
To connect multiple devices, download and install the HP Smart app on each device. Use the app to detect and connect the HP DeskJet printer, following the setup instructions. Each device will have its own account on the app but will be able to access and print from the same printer wirelessly.
How to troubleshoot common issues with wireless printing from mobile devices?
To troubleshoot common issues with wireless printing from mobile devices, start by checking your WiFi network’s stability. Ensure both your mobile device and printer are connected to the same network. Restart your router and printer if necessary to establish a stable connection.
If the issue persists, ensure the HP Smart app is updated, and your printer’s firmware is current. Consult the printer’s manual or online support resources for troubleshooting specific printing issues. Resetting the printer to its default settings may also resolve connectivity problems.