HP OfficeJet Pro 8034e suddenly stopped showing Wi-Fi setup options

[AJ337]

I have been exclusively using Wi-Fi to connect my HP OfficeJet Pro 8034e to the home network for approximately a year now.

About a month ago, the printer disconnected from the wireless network and no longer showed wireless connection as an option (i.e., network settings indicate the printer can now only be connected using ethernet).

Over this time, I have tried all troubleshooting steps listed in the printer's manual, the HP Smart Diagnose & Fix program, the HP Virtual Assistant, and the HP community support platform, but the printer still no longer shows a blue light, or wireless connectivity setup options.

I finally figured out how to apply for a replacement using the printer's warranty, but it turns out the warranty expired two days ago.  I am hoping to find some insight here, as my HP printer is now serving as no more than an expensive paperweight.

Notes:  The printer is six feet from the wireless network router.  The computer is connected via a private network and there have not been any changes made to the network in the past six months.  I am still able to connect to the Wi-Fi using my computer and phone.  I am not connected to a VPN.  When entering the printer's "Network Settings" menu, an error message pops up stating, "An Ethernet cable has not been detected. Make sure that both ends of cable are inserted correctly."

Troubleshooting steps trialed:

-Cycled power to the printer

-Cycled power to the router

-Cycled power to the computer

-Verified internet network settings

-Attempted to update firmware using printer menu and HP site

-Using the printer menu, restored network settings

Please help!

[Sneha_01]

Hi @AJ337,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It sounds like your HP OfficeJet Pro 8034e has encountered a significant issue with its wireless connectivity. Given that you’ve already performed numerous troubleshooting steps, let’s explore a few additional methods to resolve the issue, focusing on resetting network settings, verifying hardware functionality, and ensuring all possible fixes are covered:

1. Perform a Full Network Reset

Perform a Network Reset:

• Open the printer’s Control Panel.
• Navigate to Network Settings or Wireless Settings.
• Look for an option like Restore Network Defaults or Reset Network Settings.
• Confirm the action to reset all network settings.

Reconfigure Wireless Setup:

• After the network reset, the printer should attempt to reconnect to a wireless network. Follow the on-screen instructions to reconnect to your Wi-Fi network.

2. Check Wireless Module Functionality

Inspect the Wireless Module:

• If accessible, ensure the wireless module is securely connected. For many printers, this module is internal, so this may involve checking the printer's internal components if you are comfortable doing so.

Check for Physical Wireless Button:

• Some HP printers have a physical wireless button or switch. Ensure that it is turned on.

3. Reinstall Printer Firmware

1. Manually Download and Install Firmware:
   • Visit the HP Support website and search for your printer model.
   • Download the latest firmware for your OfficeJet Pro 8034e.
   • Follow the provided instructions to install the firmware manually. This often involves connecting the printer to a computer via USB for the firmware update.

4. Verify Network Configuration

• Access your router’s configuration page (usually found at an address like 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
• Ensure that the router is set to broadcast on a compatible frequency (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz) that the printer supports.
• Ensure there are no IP address conflicts on your network. Assign a static IP address to your printer through your router settings if necessary.

5. Check Printer Hardware

• Inspect the printer for any signs of damage or loose components that might affect wireless connectivity.
• If possible, try connecting the printer to a different Wi-Fi network (e.g., a mobile hotspot) to determine if the issue is related to your home network or the printer itself.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support

[AJ337]

I appreciate your time and response, @Rachel571

Of your suggestions, I have already attempted options 1 (performed full network reset), 3 (reinstall printer firmware), and 4 (verify network configuration).  

I've not yet tried option 2 (check wireless module functionality).  I just looked at the printer's internal components and was not able to find the wireless module, and the module's location isn't listed in the printer's manual.  I wasn't able to find information about a physical wireless button, either.

Do you have more information about the wireless module and/or button so I can try this step?

Thank you again for your support.

[Sneha_01]

Hi @AJ337 

I'm sending out a private message to assist you with the next course of action. In order to access your private messages, click the private message icon on the upper right corner of your HP Support Community profile, next to your profile Name.

Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571 

HP Support