HP Smart doesn't recognize my Deskjet 2720e anymore!

[A-D_1961]

From December 2025, my HP Smart App doesn't find my Printer/ Scanner anymore.

The only device listed is "Microsoft IPP Class Driver".

No Windows Update issued meanwhile, could solve the Problem!

Also, a re- installation of HP Smart had no effect.

I am able however, to use my Deskjet 2720e by the print and scan functions provided by Windows.

BeforeMy 2025 I was able to solve all problems by using HP Print and Scan Doctor which has been removed by HP!

What can I do? 

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @A-D_1961,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I hear your frustration. Your HP Smart app worked perfectly until December 2025, and suddenly, it cannot detect your DeskJet 2720e anymore. Instead of your printer, HP Smart only shows “Microsoft IPP Class Driver.” You’ve reinstalled HP Smart, updated Windows, and even lost access to the HP Print and Scan Doctor (which HP officially removed in late 2025).

What you’re experiencing is not your fault; it is the result of changes to Windows + HP Smart + and HP’s retirement of Print & Scan Doctor, along with some recent issues affecting device discovery in third‑party print services. Let’s fix your printer detection step‑by‑step.

STEP 1: Remove the “Microsoft IPP Class Driver” and Re‑Add the Printer

1. Open Windows Settings
2. Go to Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners
3. Click your printer showing as Microsoft IPP Class Driver
4. Click Remove device
5. Restart your computer
6. Open HP Smart → Click Add Printer

HP Smart should now attempt to install the correct HP driver, not the generic IPP one. If the printer appears during setup, you’re fixed.

STEP 2: Make Sure the Printer Is in Wi‑Fi Setup Mode

HP Smart cannot detect the printer unless it is broadcasting itself.

To restore setup mode on your DeskJet 2720e:

1. Press and hold Wireless + Cancel for 5 seconds
2. The blue wireless light will start blinking
3. Open HP Smart → Add Printer

This resets the printer’s Wi‑Fi pairing.

STEP 3: Reinstall the HP Driver Layer (Important!)

Because HP Print and Scan Doctor is gone, use HP’s driver package:

1. Go to HP DeskJet 2720e All-in-One Printer | HP® Support
2. Download → HP Easy Start (this replaces Print & Scan Doctor)
3. Run it and select:
   ✔ Install full software and drivers

This restores the complete HP detection layer so HP Smart can see the printer.

STEP 4: Restart the HP Smart Service (Fixes “No Printers Found”)

1. Press Windows key → type Services
2. Find HP Smart App Service (or HP Comm / HP Networking Service, depending on Windows 10 build)
3. Right‑click → Restart

Now re‑open HP Smart.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!

Regards,

VikramTheGreat

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @A-D_1961,
 

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!

Regards,

VikramTheGreat

[A-D_1961]

Sorry for replying so late,

I was not alerted about your reply by any message in my E-Mail in-box.

I only saw this today and will now try the suggestions you made. 

regards

Alex

[A-D_1961 · Accepted solution]

Thank you for your help!

I followed the Steps recommended by you in your message dd. 02-13-2026 12:15 PM.

However, this was only part of the solution:

HP Smart Print was able to find my Deskjet 2720e again but couldn' finish the setup routine!

By incidence, I then found a setting in Windows called "WPP Mode" (Windows Protected Print).

I deactivated the WPP Mode and then was able to use my Deskjet 2720e again as before!

This feature was introduced with Windows Update "Windows 11, version 24H2", however only activated by "Windows security Update KB5072033" in December 2025. This was the time when my printer problems began!

I strongly recommend HP to inform all Users of older devices of such Problems and how to solve them!

Regards

Alex

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @A-D_1961,

Thank you very much for taking the time to share this detailed feedback. We truly appreciate it.

We’re glad to hear you were able to get your HP DeskJet 2720e working again, even though it required additional troubleshooting beyond the initial steps. We understand how frustrating it must have been when HP Smart could detect the printer but not complete the setup.

Your observation regarding WPP Mode (Windows Protected Print) and its activation following Windows 11 version 24H2 and security update KB5072033 is extremely valuable. Changes introduced through Windows updates can sometimes affect communication protocols between the operating system and certain printer models, particularly older or previously configured devices.

Disabling WPP Mode restoring functionality strongly suggests the update altered how the system handles protected print drivers and device communication. Feedback like yours helps us better understand real-world impact scenarios.

We absolutely agree that clearer communication around operating system updates and potential compatibility changes is important. We will make sure your feedback is documented and shared internally with the appropriate teams.

Most importantly, we’re pleased that your printer is functioning again. If you experience anything further or need assistance in the future, we’re here to help.

Thank you again for sharing your findings; it’s genuinely helpful.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue; it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

Take care and have a great day ahead!

VikramTheGreat

HP Support