HP DeskJet Printer Not Connecting to Wi-Fi? Here’s What Actually Works

If your HP DeskJet printer not connecting to Wi-Fi, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common problems DeskJet users face—especially during first-time setup, after changing the router, or following a system update.

The good news? In most cases, this issue is not a hardware failure. It’s usually caused by network settings, router compatibility, or simple configuration errors. This guide walks you through practical, proven steps that real users rely on to get their HP DeskJet printer back online.

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Why HP DeskJet Printer Not Connecting to Wi-Fi

Before fixing the issue, it helps to understand why it happens. HP DeskJet printers are sensitive to wireless changes, and even a small mismatch can break the connection.

Common reasons include:

• The printer was connected to an old Wi-Fi network
• The router was replaced or reset
• Incorrect Wi-Fi password entered
• Router is using 5 GHz only (DeskJet needs 2.4 GHz)
• Printer firmware or drivers are outdated
• Weak signal or interference
• Power-saving or sleep mode disconnecting Wi-Fi

Once you identify the cause, the fix becomes much easier.

Step 1: Check the Wi-Fi Light on the Printer

Look at the blue wireless light on your HP DeskJet printer:

• Blinking blue → Printer is in setup mode (good)
• Solid blue → Connected to Wi-Fi
• No light → Wireless is turned off or disconnected

If the light isn’t blinking, the printer won’t accept a new Wi-Fi connection.

Step 2: Reset HP DeskJet Wireless Settings (Most Important Step)

Resetting the network settings clears old Wi-Fi details that often cause conflicts.

How to reset:

1. Turn the printer ON
2. Press and hold the Wireless (📶) button and Cancel (X) button together
3. Hold for about 5–10 seconds
4. Release when the blue light starts blinking

This puts the printer back into Wi-Fi setup mode.

Step 3: Set Up Wi-Fi Using HP Smart App

HP Smart is the most reliable way to connect DeskJet printers wirelessly.

What to do:

1. Install HP Smart App from the official HP website or app store
2. Open the app on your computer or phone
3. Click Add Printer or Set Up New Printer
4. Select your Wi-Fi network
5. Enter the correct Wi-Fi password
6. Wait for confirmation

⚠️ Make sure your phone or computer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network you’re setting up for the printer.

Step 4: Check Your Wi-Fi Router Settings

Many HP DeskJet printers only support 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. If your router uses 5 GHz only, the printer won’t connect.

Recommended router settings:

• Enable 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
• Turn off MAC address filtering
• Enable DHCP
• Temporarily disable VPNs
• Keep firewall restrictions minimal during setup

If needed, restart the router after changing settings.

Step 5: Use USB Cable for Wi-Fi Setup (If Wireless Setup Fails)

If HP Smart cannot detect the printer wirelessly, use a USB cable temporarily.

Steps:

1. Connect printer to computer using a USB cable
2. Open HP Smart App
3. Follow on-screen Wi-Fi setup instructions
4. Remove USB cable once setup is complete

This method helps the app send Wi-Fi details directly to the printer.

Step 6: Update HP DeskJet Drivers and Firmware

Outdated software can prevent the printer from staying connected.

• Download the latest printer drivers
• Install available firmware updates
• Restart your computer and printer after updates

Updates often fix wireless stability and compatibility issues.

Step 7: Make Sure the Printer Is Online

Sometimes the printer connects but shows as “Offline.”

Check these:

• Set the printer as Default
• Remove duplicate printer entries
• Verify printer IP address hasn’t changed
• Disable sleep or power-saving mode if possible

When the Problem Is Not Wi-Fi

If your printer:

• Never shows a wireless light
• Disconnects immediately after connecting
• Fails on every network

The issue may be related to:

• Internal wireless card failure
• Firmware corruption
• Router compatibility limitations

At this point, professional troubleshooting is recommended.

Final Thoughts

An HP DeskJet printer not connecting to Wi-Fi is frustrating, but it’s usually fixable without replacing the printer. Resetting network settings, using the HP Smart App, checking router compatibility, and keeping drivers updated resolve most cases.

Wireless printing depends on both the printer and the network working together. Once they’re properly aligned, your HP DeskJet should stay connected and print reliably.