Make my printer print from my computer only

[apullover]

This may be long so just bear with me please...

I have a few roommates that use my printer, no big deal except they refuse to buy ink and paper when it runs out. It always falls on me to buy supplies, which can be pricey! I use my printer a lot by connecting to it using bluetooth and the HP smart app on my computer. My roommates plug their computers straight into the printer using some kind of USB (not sure which kind). I have asked them several times not to use my printer if they weren't going to pitch in on the supplies, but they use it regardless. My question is how can I get that to stop? Is there a way I can block the USB connection from the HP app? or is there maybe some kind of way I can make it to where my printer only prints from my computer? I've used the HP AI assistant, Google, and even Chatgpt! Everything tells me to go into my advanced settings, but I don't see that option anywhere in the HP app on my computer or my phone. I feel like I am at a loss because I don't know what to do.

Please help!!

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @apullover,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I understand where you’re coming from. That’s a tough situation, especially when you’re the one covering all the supplies. I’ll be straightforward with you on what’s possible and what isn’t on HP printers.

About blocking USB printing

On most HP home printers:

USB connections cannot be blocked or controlled from the HP Smart app

• HP Smart manages Wi-Fi/network printing 
• A direct USB connection works independently of the app 
• So if someone plugs in via USB, the printer will accept the job 

What you can control

1. Remove wireless access (temporary control)

If you want to limit usage:

• Turn Wi-Fi OFF on the printer when not in use
  This stops others from printing wirelessly 

2. Use Wi-Fi Direct with a password

1. Enable Wi-Fi Direct on the printer 
2. Set a password 
3. Only connect your own device 

This gives you more control over who connects wirelessly

3. Keep the printer physically secured

Since USB can’t be blocked:

• Disconnect the USB cable when not in use 
• Keep the printer in your room if possible 

4. Power control

• Turn the printer OFF when you’re not using it
  Simple but effective in shared spaces 

About advanced settings

You’re not missing anything. What you saw online:

• Some models (mostly business-class printers) support user access control 
• Most home models do not have user-level restrictions 

Reality of the situation

There isn’t a built-in way to:

• Restrict printing to one specific computer 
• Block USB-only users through software 

Practical suggestion

Given the limitations, the most reliable options are:

• Physical control (power/USB access) 
• Or setting clear usage boundaries with your roommates

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!