Cannot connect HP laserjet PRO 200 M251nw printer to wireless

[SazNatalie]

I have recently upgraded to Sky 500 fibre and I can no longer connect my HP laserjet Pro 200 colour M251nw printer. I have tried to reset the factory settings on the printer, but it is unable to do this. The printer stayed on this for hours but would not reset.  Can you please advise how I can resolve this. The printer is not connected to wireless and I do not know how to proceed. Thank you.

[Raj_05]

Hi @SazNatalie,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you troubleshoot and resolve the issue with your HP LaserJet Pro 200 M251nw not connecting to the new wireless network.

Reset the Printer to Factory Defaults

If the factory reset process hangs, try the following:

Manual Reset via Control Panel:

• Press the Setup button on the printer's control panel (it looks like a wrench or cogwheel).
• Navigate to Service or Restore Defaults using the arrow buttons.
• Select Restore Defaults and confirm the selection.

Power Cycle During Reset:

• Turn off the printer.
• Disconnect it from power for at least 2 minutes.
• Reconnect the power cord and turn it back on.

If this doesn't work, try updating the firmware (see Step 4).

Connect the Printer to Your New Wireless Network

Access Wireless Setup Wizard:

• Press the Setup button.
• Navigate to Network Setup > Wireless Setup Wizard.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to connect to your Sky 500 Fibre WiFi network.

Ensure Compatibility with the New Router:

• Check that your router is set to a 2.4 GHz band. Many older printers, including the M251nw, are not compatible with 5 GHz networks.
• If your router supports both bands, separate them into two SSIDs (e.g., "Sky_2.4GHz" and "Sky_5GHz") and connect the printer to the 2.4 GHz SSID.

Assign a Static IP Address (if necessary)

If the printer connects but doesn’t stay connected:

1. Access the printer’s IP Configuration settings from the control panel.
2. Assign a static IP address that is within your router's range (e.g., 192.168.0.100).
3. Update your router settings to reserve this IP address for the printer.

[Raj_05]

Update Printer Firmware

Ensure your printer’s firmware is up-to-date:

1. Visit the HP support page for your printer.
2. Download the latest firmware for the M251nw model.
3. Update the firmware via USB or network connection.

Connect via WPS (Optional)

If the Wireless Setup Wizard fails:

1. Ensure your router supports WPS (WiFi Protected Setup).
2. Press the WPS button on your router.
3. On the printer, go to Network Setup > Wireless > WPS Setup, and follow the instructions.

Reset the Router Settings (if nothing works)

1. Restart your router to ensure no settings conflict.
2. Confirm there are no MAC address filtering or firewall rules blocking the printer.

Note:

• If wireless connection issues persist, consider connecting the printer to your network using an Ethernet cable.
• Alternatively, use HP Smart App on a compatible device to assist with wireless setup.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4

HP Support