HP Smart App can't find my printer to update Wi-Fi network

[kcunnink]

HP LaserJet MFP M139e-M142e
My printer is in like-new condition and was working perfectly until we changed ISPs and got a new Wi-Fi router. There was no option in the printer setup to select a new Wi-Fi network, so I removed the printer from the control panel and re-installed HP Smart app. When I try to set up the printer, the app cannot find it. I’ve restarted my PC (Windows 11) several times; confirmed Bluetooth is on; re-powered the printer several times; tried resetting the network settings; and confirmed my router supports 2.4 GHz.

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @kcunnink,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

When you switch ISPs or Wi-Fi networks, your printer needs to be reconnected to the new network. 

Here are some troubleshooting steps for setting up your HP LaserJet MFP M139e-M142e on the new Wi-Fi network:

1. Reset Printer Network Settings

• To ensure any previous network settings are cleared, reset your printer’s network settings:
  1. Turn on the printer.
  2. Press and hold the Wireless and Cancel buttons on the printer until the Wireless light blinks.
  3. This resets the network settings to default and prepares the printer for a new connection.

2. Reinstall HP Smart App with Full Administrator Access HP printer setup (HP Smart app)

• Uninstall the HP Smart app, then reinstall it with administrator privileges:
  1. Go to Settings > Apps, locate HP Smart, and uninstall it.
  2. Restart your PC, then reinstall HP Smart from the Microsoft Store.
  3. Run HP Smart as an administrator (right-click the app icon, then select Run as Administrator).

3. Reconnect the Printer to Wi-Fi through HP Smart App

• Open the HP Smart app and follow these steps to reconnect the printer:
  1. Make sure Bluetooth is enabled (it helps the app locate the printer).
  2. In HP Smart, click on “Add Printer,” then select your printer model when it appears.
  3. Follow the prompts to connect to Wi-Fi. Ensure you enter the new network’s password correctly.
  4. If the app cannot find the printer, ensure that both your computer and printer are on the same 2.4 GHz network.

4. Alternative Setup Using Wi-Fi Direct HP printer setup (Wi-Fi network)

• If HP Smart is unable to find your printer:
  1. Enable Wi-Fi Direct on the printer by pressing the Wireless and Information buttons together until the Wi-Fi Direct light turns on.
  2. On your PC, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi and connect directly to the printer’s Wi-Fi Direct network (usually labeled something like “HP-Print-xx-LaserJet”).
  3. Return to HP Smart and try adding the printer. The app should prompt you to switch it to your home Wi-Fi network.

5. Update Printer Firmware (Optional) Update the firmware on an HP printer

• If setup issues persist, check if your printer firmware is up-to-date:
  • Go to the HP support site and search for the latest firmware for your model. Download and install it if available.

Refer to this document: HP LaserJet MFP M139e-M142e Printer series User manual 

Troubleshoot a Wi-Fi connection to an HP printer 
 

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

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