HP Deskjet 4255e

[FrankV4]

New HP Deskjet 4255e turned on and install with my Dell Inspiron 24 5410 All-in-one stops with error message it only works with 2.4GHz and the network is 5GHz. Can I get around this or do I return it to the Staples store?

  

[Sneha_01]

Hi @FrankV4 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

The issue you're experiencing with the HP DeskJet 4255e is related to the printer’s Wi-Fi connectivity. Many modern printers, including the DeskJet 4255e, are designed to only work with 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks for better compatibility and range, while many home routers provide both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.

Your Dell Inspiron 24 5410 is likely connected to a 5 GHz network, and that’s causing the issue with the printer not connecting.

Here are a few options to resolve the issue:

1. Connect Your Printer to the 2.4 GHz Network

• Most home routers broadcast both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz signals (but on separate channels), so you’ll need to connect your HP DeskJet 4255e to the 2.4 GHz network instead of the 5 GHz one.

Steps:

1. Log into your router: Access your router’s settings through a browser (usually by typing 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 into the browser's address bar). You’ll need the router admin username and password (often found on the router label).
2. Separate the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands: If your router is set to combine the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands under one SSID (network name), you’ll need to separate them so you can distinguish between them.
   • Look for settings like "Smart Connect" or "band steering" and disable them.
   • Assign unique names (SSIDs) for the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks.
3. Reconnect your printer: Once you have two distinct network names, choose the 2.4 GHz network during the printer’s setup process. Ensure that your printer is connected to the correct 2.4 GHz band.

2. Temporarily Disable the 5 GHz Network (Optional)

• If you prefer, you can disable the 5 GHz network temporarily to allow your printer to connect to the 2.4 GHz band.

Steps:

1. Log into your router’s settings as described above.
2. Disable the 5 GHz network temporarily.
3. Set up the printer and ensure it connects to the 2.4 GHz network.
4. After the printer is connected, you can re-enable the 5 GHz network.

3. Use a Wi-Fi Extender or Dual-Band Router

• If your router is only broadcasting a 5 GHz network, you could use a Wi-Fi extender or dual-band router that supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.
• Many modern extenders automatically create a 2.4 GHz network alongside your existing 5 GHz network, which you can then connect your printer to.

4. Consider Network Setup and Compatibility

• Most newer printers (like the HP DeskJet 4255e) prefer 2.4 GHz because it has better range and can work more reliably with devices that don’t need the high speeds of 5 GHz.
• 5 GHz is ideal for faster data transfers (e.g., streaming or gaming), but it has a shorter range and poorer penetration through walls compared to 2.4 GHz.

5. Use a USB Connection (If Needed)

• If you continue to experience connectivity issues, you can always connect the printer directly to your Dell Inspiron 24 5410 via a USB cable. This will bypass any Wi-Fi connectivity issues and allow you to print without worrying about the wireless network.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support

[FrankV4]

 I returned the HP printer and bought a Canon G3270 and it connects to the 5GHz.