Printer Unable to connect to web services / instant ink

[ckelly33b]

I have been using my printer and instant ink with its current web settings for a year.  Two months ago my printer stopped communicating with instant ink.  The printer was showing a wireless connection (complete with IP address) but wasn't communicating with HP.   I recently began to try to correct the issue by doing the following:

1. Power cycling the printer and computer (no improvement)
2. I went into my printer's embedded web server and disabled it with a plan to re-enable.  I disabled successfully but could not re-enable
3. Next I power cycled the network, PC and printer (including modem) - no improvement.  I still showed an internet connection & IP on the printer, but had no web services enabled - and still can't enable them.  When I try, it says "Unable to connect to server"

I use Eero routers if it matters.  Also, everything seems to be on the surrent firmware 

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @ckelly33b,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I can feel how frustrating this must be, especially after a year of smooth Instant Ink service and now hitting a wall where Web Services won’t re-enable despite the printer showing a valid IP and Wi-Fi connection. Let’s break this down and get you back online with the steps.

Why This Happens

• Web Services rely on HP servers for Instant Ink and cloud printing. If the printer can’t reach those servers, you’ll see “Unable to connect to server.”
• Common causes: 
  • DNS or firewall settings on your router (Eero sometimes blocks certain traffic).
  • Corrupted Web Services configuration on the printer.
  • Outdated firmware or SSL certificate mismatch.

Recommended Fixes

Step 1: Confirm Internet Access

• Print a Network Configuration Page from the printer: 
  • Check that the IP Address, Gateway, and DNS are valid.
  • If DNS shows 0.0.0.0 or is blank, set it manually to 8.8.8.8 (Google DNS).

Step 2: Restore Network Defaults

• On the printer control panel: 
  • Setup > Network Settings > Restore Network Defaults.
• Reconnect to Wi-Fi using the correct SSID and password.

Step 3: Manually Set DNS

• Access the Embedded Web Server (EWS): 
  • Enter the printer’s IP in your browser.
  • Go to Network > Advanced Settings.
  • Set Primary DNS to 8.8.8.8 and Secondary DNS to 8.8.4.4.
• Apply changes and restart the printer.

Step 4: Re-enable Web Services

• On the printer: 
  • Setup > Web Services > Enable.
• If it still fails, try enabling via HP app: 👉 HP App – For HP Printers, Laptops, and Tech Accessories | HP® Official Site

Step 5: Firmware Update

• Even if you think it’s current, recheck: 👉 Official HP® Support
• Install the latest firmware for your printer model.

📌 Official HP Guide:👉 HP printers - Managing the printer internet connection (Web Services) | HP® Support

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!

Regards,

VikramTheGreat

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @ckelly33b,
 

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!

Regards,

VikramTheGreat