Changing network name

[GailM1]

I'm totally stuck (and a technophobe).  A friend set the printer up for me and I've used it previously.  I haven't used it for about a year and a half.  In that time I have changed from Windows 10 to 11 and also I have a new router.  I'm so stressed.  All I have is the setup guide which is not helping me.  My friend is not available except on the phone which isn't helpful.  I thought I would be easily able to find where I needed to alter the network name, and then it would connect.  I've googled and I've also tried to follow the instructions within HP.  I know you can use either the printer or in my case laptop.  I'm going round in circles.  I get as far as the flashing wifi light printer wise then I'm stuck.  In general I'm not thick, but when it comes to technology.....I have also seen "driver check issue not fixed"  I have no idea what that means either.  Thanks.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @GailM1 

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for posting your query! We're here to help you get back up and running.

I completely understand how frustrating this must be, especially when technology feels overwhelming. But don’t worry—I’ll walk you through this step by step in a way that’s easy to follow. 

You’ve already done a great job identifying the key changes: new router and Windows 11 upgrade, both of which can affect your printer’s connection.

 

Step 1: Reset the Printer’s Network Settings

Since your printer was previously connected to a different router, it needs to forget the old network and connect to the new one.

• On the printer, press and hold the Wi-Fi button for 5 seconds until the Wi-Fi light starts blinking.
• This puts the printer into Wi-Fi setup mode, allowing it to connect to a new network.

 

Step 2: Connect the Printer to Your New Wi-Fi

• On your laptop, download and open the HP Smart app from HP Smart.
• Click Set up a new printer and follow the on-screen instructions.
• When prompted, select your Wi-Fi network and enter the password.

 

Step 3: Install or Update Printer Drivers

Since you upgraded to Windows 11, your printer may need updated drivers.

• Go to HP’s official support page and enter your printer model.
• Download and install the latest Windows 11-compatible drivers.

 

Step 4: Check for the "Driver Check Issue Not Fixed" Error

This usually means Windows is struggling to recognize the printer.

• Open Device Manager (Win + X → Device Manager).
• Expand Printers and look for your printer.
• If there’s a yellow warning icon, right-click and select Update driver.

 

Step 5: Print a Test Page

Once everything is set up, try printing a test page to confirm the connection.

If you prefer a video guide, HP has a helpful tutorial on setting up a wireless printer in Windows 11 here. Let me know if anything feels unclear—I’m happy to simplify things further! 😊

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye

[GailM1]

Thank you so much.  I haven't got my printer back out of the cupboard yet!  I will certainly do my best to follow your instructions.  I will let you know either way 😊

[Hawks_Eye]

@GailM1 

You're very welcome! No rush—whenever you get the printer set up again, just follow the steps, and hopefully, it'll go smoothly. 

I appreciate the update, and I’m here if you need any adjustments or extra troubleshooting. 

Looking forward to hearing how it goes! 😊

Thanks,

Hawks_Eye

[GailM1]

Hi.  I finally plucked up courage...and I failed.  I got as far as where it says printer found.  I can see the message "sending network information".  It then says "Unable to connect printer to network.  Make sure the printer is near the computer and wifi etc (it is).  I cannot get any further.  I knew it was going too well 😞

[Hawks_Eye]

@GailM1 

We sincerely thank you for your patience and co-operation during this troubleshooting process.

That’s frustrating, especially after getting so close! Since your printer is found but fails at the "sending network information" step, here are a few things to try:

 

Restart Everything

• Turn off your printer, router, and computer.
• Wait 60 seconds, then power them back on.

Move Closer to the Router

• Even if the printer is near your computer, ensure it’s within 8 meters (26 feet) of the router.
• If possible, try connecting to a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network instead of 5GHz.

Reset the Printer’s Network Settings

• On the printer’s touchscreen, go to Setup → Network Settings → Restore Network Defaults.
• Try reconnecting after the reset.

Use HP Smart App for Setup

• Open the HP Smart app on your computer or phone.
• Select Add Printer and follow the on-screen instructions.

Check Router Settings

• Ensure MAC Address Filtering is disabled on your router.
• If using a guest network, switch to the main Wi-Fi.

Let me know how it goes.

Regards,

Hawks_Eye