printer stuck in validating cant connect to computer

[ymey]

i acquired an office jet pro 8035e.  it is stuck in validating.  I've done the unplug for 60 seconds thing.  I can't hook it up to the computer so I can't go in that way.  is there anything else I can do?

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @ymey,

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out!

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

I understand your HP OfficeJet Pro 8035e printer is stuck in the "validating" step during setup. Follow these troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue:

1. Check Network Connection:
2. Ensure your printer is connected to a stable and reliable network.
3. Restart your router to resolve any temporary network issues.

Make sure the printer and the device you are using for setup are on the same network.

Restart the Printer:

1. Turn off the printer by pressing the Power button.

Wait for a few seconds and then turn it back on.

Use HP Smart App for Setup:

1. Download and install the HP Smart app on your device.

Follow the app instructions to add and set up your printer.

Check HP Software and Firmware:

1. Ensure you have the latest version of HP printer drivers and firmware installed.

Visit the HP support website to download and update the necessary software.

Reset Network Settings:

1. On the printer control panel, navigate to settings and look for network settings, then select the option to reset network settings.

Reconnect the printer to the network using the HP Smart app or the printer control panel.

I hope this helps.

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,

[ymey]

I downloaded the app but since printer is stuck in validating it isn’t allowing the computer/ app to hook up to it. 
I can’t access the printer control panel because it has validating on it with a circle and won’t let me get out of it. 

ive done the turn off and unplug for 60 seconds. 

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @ymey 

Thanks for troubleshooting I appreciate all your efforts, here are some steps you can try to break out of the loop:

Power Reset with Extended Drain

• Turn off the printer and unplug the power cord from both the printer and the wall outlet.
• Leave it disconnected for at least 2–3 minutes (longer than the 60 seconds you already tried).
• Plug directly into a wall outlet (avoid surge protectors) and power it back on.

Force a Reset

• With the printer powered on, disconnect the power cord.
• Wait 30 seconds.
• Hold down the # and 3 buttons on the printer’s keypad (if available) while reconnecting the power cord.
• Keep holding until the printer powers up.
• This forces a semi‑full reset, which can clear setup loops.

Network Isolation

• Temporarily disable your router’s 5 GHz band and keep only 2.4 GHz active.
• Restart the router and then restart the printer.
• Attempt setup again using the HP App on your Windows or macOS device.

USB Setup (Bypass Network Validation)

• Connect the printer to your computer using a USB cable.
• Open the HP App and add the printer via USB.
• Once added, you can update firmware and later switch to wireless setup.
• This method often bypasses the “validating” hang.

Firmware Update via USB

• If the printer is recognized over USB, check for firmware updates in the HP App.
• Updating firmware can resolve validation lockups.

If the printer remains stuck after these steps, the semi‑full reset and USB setup are the most effective ways to regain control. Once you’re able to access the printer menu again, you can reset network settings and reconnect it properly.

Regards,

Hawks_Eye