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- Printer and iPad on different networks?

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01-11-2025 11:35 AM
Welcome to the HP English Community --
@Jeremiahbrobert wrote:My printer and iPad are on different networks?
Product / Printer Model: ?
Operating System: ?
Software / Application: ?
Connection Type: ?
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Job type: "Different Networks?"
Sure - Assuming the question is as straight forward as it is typed --
Different devices connected to different networks is supported and is certainly possible.
If you need more information than what is provided here, once you have an idea of what is important in the context of your question, perhaps provide some additional detail so we know what you are seeking.
General Information - "Different Networks"
iPad and other mobile devices typically run on either a Wireless network (at your home, office, or in a public setting) AND / OR using your Data account to connect to local cell towers (for example).
Standard Wireless is also different from using Wi-Fi Direct. What? Wi-Fi Direct uses the wireless radio on your printer to connect to your wireless device (computer, tablet, phone). Because Wi-Fi Direct does not use a router, yes - the simple two-device "network" of printer and computer / tablet / phone is different from that of a standard router driven network. The printer's user manual explains Wi-Fi Direct. Reference: HP printer setup (Wi-Fi Direct)
It's also possible to connect your devices to different networks in your home or office -- the practice of creating and operating more than one actual network is far more common in an office setting. Most people don't run multiple networks at home.
Not defined as different networks, a dual frequency network (at this writing) is one network that typically operates two bands / frequencies -- 2.4GHz and 5GHz. The router is configured to support the network as you need it. True -- The amount of complexity varies. We have answered many questions about this subject, search the Community (for example) for keywords - for example, "Dual Band Network", "2.4GHz", or other terms that make sense to you. SSID_Dual_Band_Example_Router_2
It is generally necessary for the printer and the device (iPad) to be on the same network during initial connection between the two devices. That means, when installing HP Smart (for example), both printer and iPad should be connected to your home network and not iPad connected to Data account and printer connected to home network.
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Message Content References
Technology Tips Video Gallery from our HP Expert greenturtle
Technology Tips YouTube Video Help for Printers
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Mobile Printing – Mobile Options for Printers
Start here
Print from your Android, iOS, or Amazon Fire device with the HP Mobile printing app.
Open the section for your printer series > Find your printer and supported applications.
HP Printers - Mobile Printing Solutions Compatible with HP Printers
Note:
This list only includes consumer printers.
If you have an HP Enterprise printer, go to
HP LaserJet, HP OfficeJet Enterprise, HP PageWide - Printers that can use mobile printing solutions
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HP Smart (Mobile) >>> Download / Install - How-to - and FAQ
HP printer setup (HP Smart app)
Read the FAQs
For example:
What is the HP Smart app and its requirements?
And / or
What if my cloud printer is missing, offline, or unavailable in the HP Smart app?
And / or
Why can't I connect my wireless printer or print over the network?
>>> Terms of Use >>> HP Smart – formally HP Connected – Services Terms of Use
Reminders -- Initial Connection
- Your Mobile device (tablet, phone) must be on the same network as the printer.
- Location Services and Bluetooth should both be switched ON
-- Be Aware –
Any HP application you install should be sourced from “HP”.
What? Fakes have been discovered on at least one Mobile App Store –
Check who is providing the application >> “HP Inc.”
If you can’t tell, ask or use the Homepage method (if using Windows) to download and install the HP Smart application.
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References / Resources
HP Printer Home Page - References and Resources
Learn about your Printer - Solve Problems
“Things that are your printer”
When the website support page opens, Select (as available) a Category > Topic > Subtopic
NOTE: Content depends on device type and Operating System
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