Can't set up and connect Smart Tank 5100 to wi-fi needs 2.4GHz and I can't change my router

[Liz_65]

Hello, I have tried to connect my printer to wi-fi and have only succeeded to create a new network, which over rides my network and leaves me with no internet, I can only get rid of the printer network by doing a factory reset on my router. When I try to change my router to 2.4GHz the printer network is back and I have no internet access again.

My router is both 2.4GHz and 5.0GHz, I have tried to change it to 2.4GHz but it always says the change cannot be applied.

Do I need to return the printer as it will only connect to 2.4GHz

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Liz_65 

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

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

Thanks for explaining the situation so clearly—it sounds like the printer is broadcasting its own setup network instead of connecting to your Wi-Fi, and your router’s dual-band configuration is making things trickier than it should be. The good news is: you don’t need to return the printer. The HP Smart Tank 5100 does require a 2.4GHz network, but there are ways to make it work even with a dual-band router.

Here’s how to get it connected without disrupting your internet:

🛠️ Step-by-Step: Connect Smart Tank 5100 to a 2.4GHz Network

1. Check for Separate SSIDs

Many dual-band routers allow you to assign different names (SSIDs) to the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. This is the easiest way to ensure the printer connects to the correct one.

• Log in to your router’s admin page (usually by typing 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1 in your browser).
• Look for Wireless Settings or Wi-Fi Settings.
• If both bands are using the same SSID, rename the 2.4GHz band to something like MyWiFi_2.4.
• Save changes and restart the router.

Once renamed, connect your computer or phone to the 2.4GHz network and run the HP Smart app to set up the printer.

2. Use HP Smart App for Setup

• Download the HP Smart app on your phone or PC.
• Make sure your device is connected to the 2.4GHz Wi-Fi.
• Power on the printer and wait for the Wi-Fi light to blink (indicating setup mode).
• In the HP Smart app, tap Add Printer and follow the prompts to connect it to your 2.4GHz network.

3. Avoid Connecting to the Printer’s Wi-Fi Direct Signal

If your device connects to a network like DIRECT-xx-HP Smart Tank, that’s the printer’s temporary setup network. It’s only used during initial configuration and doesn’t provide internet access. Once setup is complete, your device should reconnect to your home Wi-Fi.

If your router won’t let you rename or split the bands, let me know the model—some routers have a “band steering” feature that can be temporarily disabled during setup. You’re doing the right thing by digging into this—it’s a common hurdle, and we’ll get your printer online without needing to return it.

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