WiFi needs Ethernet cord?

[Drivinmecraz]

Everything I read says for Wi-Fi Direct you do not need to be plugged into the internet, but the only way it works is by plugging it into the internet. Am I missing something? It’s supposed to have its own wifi and my phone will connect to it without it plugged into internet, but will not print anything. Please explain what the point is of Wi-Fi Direct if it still needs to be plugged in?

[Raj_05]

Hi @Drivinmecraz,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

You're right that Wi-Fi Direct is designed to let your HP OfficeJet 8022e All-in-One Printer create its own wireless network, allowing devices like your phone to connect directly without needing an internet connection or a router. Here's an explanation of how it's supposed to work and why you're facing this issue.

How Wi-Fi Direct Works

Wi-Fi Direct: The printer creates its own local Wi-Fi network, and your device (like a phone or tablet) can connect directly to this network to print without needing access to the internet or a router. This is useful for quick, on-the-go printing when no network is available.

Printer-to-Device Connection: When using Wi-Fi Direct, the connection is only between your phone and the printer. The phone uses the printer’s Wi-Fi signal to communicate directly.

Why the Ethernet Connection Might Be Needed

If your printer is only working when it's plugged into an Ethernet connection, this may indicate one of the following:

• Misconfiguration: The printer might be set to require the internet for cloud services, like HP ePrint or online features, but this shouldn't affect basic Wi-Fi Direct printing.
• Driver or Compatibility Issue: Some mobile devices or print jobs might need updated drivers or settings for proper Wi-Fi Direct communication, which may be missing if you’re relying solely on Wi-Fi Direct.
• Wi-Fi Direct Mode Misuse: If you're connecting your phone to the printer’s Wi-Fi but trying to print via an app or service that requires internet (like HP Smart using cloud features), it might not work because Wi-Fi Direct does not provide internet access.

Troubleshooting Tips

Ensure Wi-Fi Direct is Enabled: Check the printer’s settings (on the control panel or through the HP Smart app) to make sure Wi-Fi Direct is turned on.

• Go to the Network section on the printer's display.
• Select Wi-Fi Direct and ensure it’s enabled.

Use the Right Printing Method: When connected via Wi-Fi Direct, use local printing (through an app or system function that prints directly to the printer without requiring the internet).

Disable Ethernet Temporarily: Disconnect the Ethernet cable and try printing with only Wi-Fi Direct enabled to test if it's properly working.

Driver/App Update: Ensure your phone's printing app (like HP Smart or Google Cloud Print) is up to date.

Note:

Wi-Fi Direct should allow you to print without an Ethernet cable or internet, but if it only works when the printer is plugged in, there might be a misconfiguration. It's designed for local connections, so if printing isn't working, check the settings and ensure you’re using the correct method for Wi-Fi Direct.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4

HP Support