cannot connect and print

[Alanb51]

cannot print from computer, it did print, but now, nothing. unable to find drivers for Laser Jet Pro 252dw

[Hawks_Eye · Accepted solution]

Hi @Alanb51 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

I understand how disappointing it feels when the printer suddenly stops responding even though it worked before. Thank you for already checking the connection and trying to print—that helps narrow down the situation. 

Let’s go through a clear set of steps to restore printing on your HP LaserJet Pro 252dw.

 

Step 1: Power Reset

1. Turn off the printer.
2. Disconnect the power cable from the rear and from the wall outlet.
3. Wait at least 60 seconds.
4. Reconnect and power the printer back on.
   This refreshes the hardware and clears temporary states.

 

Step 2: Check Connection

• If using USB, connect the cable directly to the computer (avoid hubs).
• If using Wi‑Fi, ensure the printer and computer are on the same network.
• Print a Network Configuration Page from the printer’s control panel to confirm connectivity.

 

Step 3: Install Printer Driver

The HP LaserJet Pro 252dw requires the full software package for Windows.

• Go to the official HP support page: HP Color LaserJet Pro M252dw Printer.
• Select your Windows version and download the Full Software and Drivers package.
• Run the installer and follow the on‑screen steps to add the printer.

 

Step 4: Add Printer Manually (Windows)

1. Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
2. Click Add a printer.
3. Choose your printer from the list.
   • If not listed, select The printer I want isn’t listed.
   • Enter the printer’s IP address (from the Network Configuration Page).
4. Complete the setup.

 

Step 5: Use HP App

• Install the HP App from the Microsoft Store.
• Open the app, add your printer, and use the Diagnose & Fix option.
• This tool checks for driver mismatches, queue errors, and connectivity issues automatically.

 

Step 6: Test Print

Once installed, try printing a simple text document. If successful, the printer should stay connected without needing repeated resets.

You’ve already shown great patience by testing and reconnecting. With these steps—especially installing the full driver package—you should feel the printer respond with its familiar hum and deliver pages smoothly again. 

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye

[Alanb51]

Thanks for the reply. I did all those steps, but it took three tries before old bessie decided to print, Then, printed as if nothing had happened. Considered the hammer fix, but, she came roaring. back. Hope It is fixed for good. This was the first time we had had that problem with this printer. It has been a real trooper.  Thanks again for the reminders.

Alan

[Hawks_Eye]

I’m glad to hear “old bessie” came back to life and printed like nothing was wrong—that’s always a relief after a few stubborn retries. 

Printers can be quirky that way: one moment they act up, the next they behave perfectly as if nothing happened.

Since this was the first time you’ve seen that hiccup, it may just have been a temporary communication glitch or a driver hiccup. If it does happen again, the most useful preventive steps are:

• Keep the firmware and drivers updated through HP Smart or the support site.
• Run HP’s Diagnose & Fix tool if you notice repeat stalls—it’s more reliable now than the older Print and Scan Doctor.
• Check connections (USB/Wi‑Fi) when the printer hesitates, as reseating or re‑establishing the link often clears things up.
• Power cycle both printer and PC if it seems “stuck,” since that refreshes the handshake.

It sounds like your printer has been a dependable workhorse, so hopefully this was just a one‑off. If it does crop up again, you’ll already have the right steps in mind to tame it quickly.

You're awesome, and I'm honored to have been your go-to guide! 😊

Stay fantastic, and have an amazing day ahead! 

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye