Mac Filtering

[aamannin]

I have a PhotoSmart 6520 that I have used on Verizon, Xfinity/Comcast, and ATT networks for years and I love.  I recently transitioned to Cox internet and now my printer will not connect to my network.  When I try to connect using WPS (PIN or no PIN) I get an error that progress has stopped.  When I try to connect using my wifi password the connection fails.  When I print a Wireless Network Test Results page, the issue appears to be my routers MAC filtering.  MAC filtering is turned off on my router and I have added the MAC address of the printer as an allowed device, but teh issue persists.

My router has 3 bands (2.4, 5, 6).  For testing purposes I split them out and renamed my 2.4 [networkname]24 to ensure that my printer was not trying to autmatically connect to the 5 or 6g when it is only 2.4g compatible.  The issue persists.

I have also restarted the printer and router multiple times each and have tried moving the printer close to the router (within 1 foot), mid distance (across the room), and further (1 floor away) with no success.

Any help in getting this resolved would be greatly appreciated. 

[Sneha_01]

Hi @aamannin,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It sounds like you've done a thorough job troubleshooting the connectivity issues with your HP PhotoSmart 6520. Given that the problem persists despite your efforts, let's explore some additional steps and considerations to help resolve the issue:

1. Double-Check MAC Filtering Settings

Even though you mentioned MAC filtering is turned off, it's worth double-checking:

• Access Router Settings: Log into your router’s web interface (typically accessible through a web browser at an address like 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
• Verify MAC Filtering: Ensure that MAC filtering is truly disabled or configured to allow all devices. Sometimes, changes may not save correctly or there might be multiple settings affecting this.
• Check for MAC Address Whitelisting: If you have added the printer’s MAC address to a whitelist or allowed list, ensure it’s correctly entered and saved.

2. Confirm Printer's MAC Address

• Verify MAC Address: Ensure that the MAC address you added to the router’s allowed list matches the MAC address of the printer. You can usually find this address on the printer's network settings page or in its configuration report.

3. Network Band Compatibility

Your HP PhotoSmart 6520 is compatible only with the 2.4 GHz band. Ensure the following:

• SSID Separation: Make sure that the 2.4 GHz network (SSID) is visible and distinct from the 5 GHz and 6 GHz networks. You mentioned you split them out, which is good.
• Network Visibility: Verify that the 2.4 GHz network is not hidden and is broadcasting its SSID.

4. Check Router Settings

• Channel Settings: Sometimes, specific channels on the 2.4 GHz band might cause connectivity issues. Try changing the channel on your router’s 2.4 GHz network settings to a different one (e.g., from Auto to a specific channel like 1, 6, or 11).
• Security Settings: Ensure that your router's security settings are compatible with your printer. For instance, use WPA2 or WPA (not WPA3, as older devices may not support it) and avoid using obscure encryption methods.

5. Network Configuration

• Static IP Address: Try assigning a static IP address to your printer to see if that resolves the issue. You can do this through your router’s DHCP settings or directly on the printer’s network settings.
• SSID and Password: Re-enter the network SSID and password on the printer to ensure they are correct. Sometimes, errors can occur if there’s a typo or if the password includes special characters.

6. Printer Network Reset

• Network Settings Reset: Perform a factory reset of the network settings on your printer. Refer to the printer’s manual for instructions on how to reset network settings. This can help if there are any corrupted configurations.

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