How to Connect Your Printer to Wi-Fi

Being able to connect your printer to your wireless network is something almost expected given the amount of wireless devices we have in our lives, be that your smartphone, tablet, laptop or PC. This removes the hassle of cables and being able to connect multiple devices to one printer.

If you have a new printer or are trying to set up an existing one, this guide will walk you through how to connect printer to WiFi and the steps you need to take.

Step 1: Check your printer and network

Most importantly before you go any further make sure your printer supports wireless (Wi-Fi) connectivity. Provided it does make a note of the name and password of your wireless network.

The easiest way to complete the process is either on a laptop or smartphone/tablet that is already connected to the same network.

Step 2: Turn on your printer

Sounds obvious but it can sometimes interrupt the set up process by powering on your printer before you have done step one.

Do check your printers set up instructions in case there is anything specific you need to do but generally speaking this stage is fairly standard.

Make sure your printer is located well within range of your router.

Step 3: Access the printers control panel

Using your printers navigation screen browse to the ‘wireless’ or ‘network’ settings.

If your printer doesn’t have a navigation or display screen, accessing these settings will be done through a button or buttons combination. It’s always worth having your printers set up guide to hand.

Step 4: Connect to Wi-Fi

Use your printer’s navigation screen or buttons to select the wireless set up wizard.

Select your W-Fi network from the list of available networks and enter the network password when prompted.

Once this stage has finished you should see a confirmation message and/or indication displayed on the printer.

Using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)

Not every printer will have this feature, certainly some HP printers do and it is likely others such as Canon and Epson will have as well.

Start by pressing the WPS button on your wireless (Wi-Fi) router. Navigate to the WPS setup option within your printer setting, which will usually be found within the network settings, and then activate it. If all has gone well your printer should then automatically connect to your wireless network.

Step 5: Install printer software on your computer

To print wirelessly from your computer, you need to install the printer’s software. This can usually be done through:

CD/DVD: If your printer came with an installation disc, insert it into your computer and follow the on-screen instructions. 

Download: Visit the printer manufacturer’s website, download the latest drivers and software, and install them on your computer.

During the installation, choose the wireless connection option. The software will search for the printer on the network and complete the setup.

Step 6: Add the printer to your devices

On a Windows PC:

Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners

Click on Add a printer or scanner

Select your printer from the list and follow the prompts to add it.

On a Mac:

Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners

Click on the + button to add a new printer

Select your printer from the list and follow the prompts to add it.

On a Mobile Device:

iOS: Go to Settings > Wi-Fi and connect to the same network as your printer. Use the AirPrint feature to print.

Android: Download the manufacturer’s app (e.g. HP Smart, Epson iPrint, Brother iPrint&Scan, Canon PRINT) from the Google Play Store, and follow the instructions to add your printer.

Troubleshooting Tips

Printer Not Found: Ensure your printer and device are on the same Wi-Fi network.

Incorrect Password: Double-check the Wi-Fi password entered on the printer.

Signal Issues: Ensure your printer is within the range of your Wi-Fi router.

Restart Devices: Restart your printer, router, and computer or mobile device.

By following these steps, you should be able to connect your printer to Wi-Fi and enjoy the convenience of wireless printing. If you encounter any issues, refer to your printer’s manual or contact the manufacturer’s customer support for further assistance. Happy printing!

Blog Author: Simon Cross is the engaging and knowledgeable voice behind the insightful articles on printers and printer consumables at IJT Direct, an ecommerce store renowned for its comprehensive selection of printers, printer consumables, and hardware. View Simons author pageto find out more about him.