Printer connected to wifi but computer can't find it online.

[PHwontAnswer]

My printer is connected to the wifi, but I can't print because the computer and other devices (iPad/iPhones) can't find it.  All of the HP videos and instructions say to connect to wifi, but the computer already is - so that doesn't help.  Also, I went to wifi settings and "Reset Network Settings", which basically allows me to disconnect and then reconnect the printer to my wife, but that hasn't worked either.  Thanks.

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @PHwontAnswer,

Welcome to HP Support Community.  

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

I can offer some general troubleshooting steps to help you with the connectivity issue between your HP OfficeJet Pro 6978 printer and your Mac running MacOS 11.0 Big Sur. Please follow these steps:

Check Printer Connection:

• Make sure that your printer is turned on and connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Mac.
• Verify that the Wi-Fi signal on the printer is stable.

Printer IP Address:

• Print a network configuration page from your printer to obtain its IP address.
• On the printer's control panel, navigate to Network or Wireless settings to find the IP address.

Add Printer on MacOS:

• Go to "System Preferences" on your Mac.
• Select "Printers & Scanners" or "Print & Fax."
• Click the '+' button to add a new printer.
• If your printer is listed, select it. If not, click on "IP" and enter the printer's IP address.

Reset Printing System:

• In "Printers & Scanners," right-click on the list of printers and select "Reset printing system."
• Confirm the action and then re-add your printer.

Update Printer Drivers:

• Ensure that you have the latest printer drivers installed. Visit the HP website to download and install the latest drivers for your printer model.

Firewall/Antivirus Software:

• Check if any firewall or antivirus software on your Mac is blocking the printer's communication. Temporarily disable them and see if the issue persists.

Check for Software Updates:

• Make sure your Mac is running the latest version of MacOS. Check for updates in "System Preferences" > "Software Update."

Restart Devices:

• Restart your printer, Mac, and Wi-Fi router. Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve connectivity issues.

HP Smart App:

• Consider installing the HP Smart app on your Mac from the App Store. The app might help with the setup and troubleshooting.

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.-

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