Hard wiring Envy Inspire 7200e printer into a router

[Ben7789]

When purchasing I didn't realize that it did not come with an ethernet port and I would like to know if there is anyway I can set up the printer to be directly connected  to my router to avoid any possible disconnections. Is this something that can be done through the USB on the back of the printer with an adapter? 

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Ben7789 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

Unfortunately, the HP Envy Inspire 7200e series printers do not have an Ethernet port, and there is no built-in capability to directly connect it to a router using an Ethernet cable. However, you can still achieve a wired connection by using an adapter, though it will require some additional equipment and setup.

Here's how you can go about connecting your HP Envy Inspire 7200e printer to your router via a wired connection using the USB port:

1. Using a USB-to-Ethernet Adapter (Possible Option)

The USB port on your printer is meant for connecting to a computer, but with the right equipment, it may be possible to use a USB-to-Ethernet adapter to connect the printer to your router. Here's how:

What You Need:

• A USB to Ethernet Adapter (these adapters are typically used for connecting a USB-enabled device to an Ethernet network).
• An Ethernet cable to connect the adapter to your router.

Steps:

Purchase a USB to Ethernet adapter: Make sure the adapter is compatible with your printer’s USB port. A USB 2.0 to Ethernet adapter would be the most appropriate choice since the printer uses a standard USB 2.0 port.

Some popular options for USB-to-Ethernet adapters include brands like UGREEN, Anker, or Cable Matters. These adapters are designed to convert the USB port into a wired Ethernet connection.

Connect the adapter to the USB port on the back of the printer.

Plug an Ethernet cable into the adapter and the other end into an available port on your router.

Once connected, the printer should be able to detect the Ethernet connection.

Important Considerations:

• Compatibility: There’s no official guarantee from HP that this solution will work because the USB port is not designed to handle Ethernet traffic. However, some users have had success with this setup.
• Networking Setup: You will need to ensure your printer is configured to connect to your router’s network, which may require you to set up the printer via its control panel or the HP Smart app. If the printer detects the Ethernet connection, it may automatically connect to the network.

2. Using a Print Server

If the USB-to-Ethernet adapter doesn’t work or you're looking for a more stable solution, another option is to use a print server. A print server is a small device that can turn any USB printer into a network printer, allowing you to connect it to your router via Ethernet.

What You Need:

• A USB Print Server with Ethernet port (also known as a Network Print Server).

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

[Repairatrooper · Accepted solution]

Option #2 above is the only one to consider, but realize that this will only support printing not scanning. #1 will not work because the printers do not have the embedded coding to support a usb network adapter, only a USB key for printing certain file types.