Not able to Add Printer

[ibex448]

When I click on "ADD PRINTER" the sys just buffers then times out. Printer is not found. My printer is on the my network. Why can't my laptop see the printer and connect?

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @ibex448,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

Thank you for posting your query. I will be glad to help you.

If the printer is connected to the network but your laptop keeps buffering and cannot find it when selecting “Add Printer”, this is usually related to network discovery or Windows communication with the printer. Please try the steps below based on your printer type.

For Touchscreen HP Printers

On the printer:

1. Tap the Wireless/Wi-Fi icon 
2. Confirm: 

• Status shows Connected 
• Wi-Fi signal bars are visible 
• An IP address appears (example: 192.168.x.x) 

Then on the laptop:

1. Go to Settings → Network & Internet 
2. Make sure the Wi-Fi network is set to Private 
3. Restart: 

• Laptop 
• Printer 
• Wi-Fi router 

For Non-Touchscreen HP Printers

1. Press and hold the Wireless button + Information button together for 5 seconds 
2. Print the Network/Information page 
3. Confirm the printer has: 

• Connected status 
• Valid IP address 

Then restart the printer and PC.

Next Step

Restart the Windows print services:

1. Press Windows + R 
2. Type:
   services.msc 
3. Restart: 

• Print Spooler 
• Function Discovery Provider Host 
• Function Discovery Resource Publication 

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!