How can I get HP printers to work when using a VPN?

[Tim33]

After installing Express VPN my HP printer will go offline and not work.  When I turn my VPN off my printer works fine.  How can I get the printer to work while my VPN is on?

[ShlomiL]

Hi,

This is something to check with yoru VPN configuration and not with your printer.

Most VPN clients won't allow printing to a LAN connected printers once connected to the VPN:

If you are using a Virtual Private Network (VPN), disconnect from it when installing the printer. 

https://support.hp.com/rs-en/document/c03755890

The following document from your VPN manufacturer might be an help:

https://www.expressvpn.com/support/troubleshooting/restore-lan-access/

Regards,

Shlomi

[drivingmebonker]

Seemingly this cannot be done !  This is ridiculous !

[rosm2004md]

I have the same problem. Another post had the same question and the answer was to run HP Scan Doctor. There was no follow-up so I don't know whether it was resolved, although the answer was marked as "solved".  I tried it, and Scan Doctor found the printer fine. But when I tried to run the tests, it couldn't communicate.

It doesn't seem to make sense that it can find the printer but won't connect. Also, if it's a question of not being able to find the IP, why can't one add the IP manually?

[BadKarma0007]

FWIW, I've made some interesting progress with trying to print to my HP Office jet while connected to my ExpressVPN app. I got the printer to print if I went in the ExpressVPN app and disabled the Network Lock. To do this go:

1. to the hamburger button

2. Select options

3. under Network Lock, remove the check mark next to "Stop all internet traffic..." but try leaving the check mark on the " allow access to devices..."

4. then select OK.

What I can't get to work no matter what I try is trying to print to network folder. At least I can get print to computer...

[rosm2004md]

Thank you! That seemed to work. I just printed this post directly from the forum with the VPN connected.