Computer cannot find printer

[Nicole264]

I just got my new HP laptop and it cannot find my HP Desk Jet 2636.  What am I doing wrong?  Please someone help me.  I even have the USB cord plugged into my computer.  The computer cannot find the printer by wirelessly or the USB.

My iphone cannot connect to the printer.

Thank you.

[Jerry_57]

Hi @Nicole264,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I understand your HP laptop and iPhone are unable to communicate with your HP DeskJet 2636 printer. Here are a series of troubleshooting steps you can follow:
 

Step 1: Check Hardware Connections

• USB Connection: Ensure that the USB cable is securely connected to both the printer and your laptop. Try using a different USB port on your laptop if available.
   
• Power: Make sure the printer is powered on. The power indicator light should be solid and not blinking.

Step 2: Check Printer Status

• Printer Display: Look for error messages or warnings on the printer's display panel. Address any issues highlighted.
   
• Paper and Ink: Ensure there's enough paper in the tray and that ink cartridges are installed correctly.

Step 3: Install or Update Drivers

• HP Support Site: Go to the HP Customer Support - Software and Driver Downloads page. Enter your printer model (DeskJet 2636) in the search bar to find the latest drivers and software.
   
• HP  App: Download and install the HP app HP App – For HP Printers, Laptops, and Tech Accessories | HP® Official Site on your laptop and iPhone, which allows easy setup and management of your printer.

Step 4: Wireless Setup

• Wi-Fi Direct: For the initial setup, enable Wi-Fi Direct on the printer via the control panel and connect your devices directly to the printer's Wi-Fi Direct network. This can help configure the basic wireless settings.
   
• Network: Ensure that both your laptop and printer are connected to the same wireless network. Run the wireless setup again if needed.
   

Step 5: Reset Printer

• Reboot: Power down the printer, unplug it for 60 seconds, and then restart it. This can reset any temporary errors.
   
• Factory Reset: If none of the above works, consider performing a factory reset on the printer, but ensure to configure it again after the reset.
  
  
  I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Jerry_57

HP Support