HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M183fw, Product 7KW56A no longer connect to WiFi or Network

[Frustrated_Mom]

My printer all of a sudden will no longer connect to Wifi. I tried instead plugging in via USB directly to my router and it still can't connect.  HP PSDr can't find it either.  I have power cycled the printer and the router, no change.  Can I just replace the NIC in the printer? I hate to give it up as I have $600+ of laser cartridges sitting on my shelf!

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @Frustrated_Mom,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

I understand you are facing an issue with your HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M183fw not connecting to Wi-Fi or a network (even via USB to the router), here are steps you can follow to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the problem:

Step 1: Check Printer Network Settings

Print a Network Configuration Report:

• Go to the printer's control panel.
• Select Setup > Reports > Network Configuration Report.
• Check if the report shows an IP address or indicates any network errors.

Verify Network Details:

• Ensure the network name (SSID) and password are correct.
• Confirm the router's frequency matches your printer (2.4 GHz is often required for older models).

Step 2: Reset Network Settings

On the printer control panel:

• Go to Setup > Network Settings > Restore Network Defaults.
• Confirm the reset and retry connecting to Wi-Fi.

Reconnect the printer to your network:

• Use the Wireless Setup Wizard under Network Settings on the printer's menu.
• Re-enter your network credentials.

Step 3: Test USB Connection

If Wi-Fi isn’t working:

1. Temporarily connect the printer to your PC via USB.
2. Install the printer using the HP Smart app or HP software drivers.
3. Check if the printer responds when connected this way.

Step 4: Check Printer Firmware Update the firmware on an HP printer

Outdated firmware can cause connection issues:

1. Go to HP Support and search for your printer model.
2. Download and install the latest firmware update for your printer.
   • If the printer isn't detected, use USB to perform the update.

Step 5: Evaluate Hardware Issues

If the above steps don’t work:

• The printer’s Network Interface Card (NIC) could be failing.
  • Unfortunately, NIC replacement in this model might not be cost-effective or easily feasible.
  • If you're skilled, you could contact HP Support to inquire about NIC replacement parts, but this is uncommon for consumer printers.

Step 6: Temporary Workaround

Use Direct USB Connection:

• Connect directly to your PC and share the printer on your network.
• On Windows, go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners > Printer Properties > Sharing.

Consider Ethernet Connection (if available):

• If your router supports Ethernet, connect the printer directly using a cable.

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

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