cannot connect to WiFi

[wtylerp]

Hello, 

I recently changed my home network. Using the HP Smart app on my Mac (and iPhone) I am unable to find my printer and add it. I've reset my printer multiple times (holding down the Wifi button until both the power and attention buttons blink, then releasing the button). The power button is on and solid, and the wifi button is on and blinking, which I understand to mean it's ready to begin the WiFi set up process. Each time I use the HP Smart software it does not detect the printer (both and Mac and iPhone). I've tried everything I know, searched Reddit, the web, asked AI....nothing works. I could really use a solution. Thank you! 

[VikramTheGreat · Accepted solution]

Hi @wtylerp,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I understand how frustrating this is. You’ve done all the right steps, and the printer still won’t show up in HP Smart on your Mac or iPhone. The fact that the Wi-Fi light is blinking means the printer is in setup mode, but the app can’t detect it. This usually points to a network configuration issue, not the printer itself.

Why This Happens

• Printer and device are not on the same Wi-Fi band (2.4 GHz vs 5 GHz).
• Router settings block device discovery (AP Isolation, firewall).
• HP app cache or permissions issue.
• Bonjour/Multicast disabled on the router.

Steps to Fix It

1. Confirm Network Requirements

• The printer only supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi.
• Ensure your Mac and iPhone are also on 2.4 GHz, not 5 GHz or the guest network.
• Disable AP Isolation or “Client Isolation” in router settings.

2. Reset Printer Network Settings

• You did this correctly (holding Wi-Fi button until Power & Attention blink).
• After reset, the Wi-Fi light should blink → ready for setup.

3. Use HP App Correctly

• On Mac and iPhone: 
  • Delete HP app → reinstall from official source: 👉 HP App – For HP Printers, Laptops, and Tech Accessories | HP® Official Site
• Grant Location & Network permissions when prompted.

4. Add Printer via IP (Workaround)

• Print Network Configuration Page from the printer (usually by pressing the Information button).
• Note the IP address.
• On Mac: 
  • System Settings → Printers & Scanners → Add Printer → IP tab → Enter IP address.
• This bypasses discovery issues.

5. Check Router Settings

• Enable Multicast / Bonjour.
• Disable MAC filtering or firewall blocking local devices.

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

[wtylerp]

Hi Vikram,

I appreciate your detailed response. Between me posting my original question and receiving your response, I purchased a $16 WiFi extender that allowed me to control broadcasting in 2.4GHz only. I was able to successfully join that WiFi network and everything works great now. Thanks for your response, I'm sure it will be helpful to other people who run into the same issue.  

Much appreciation and Cheers!

Tyler

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @wtylerp,

That’s great to hear, and a smart solution!

Using a 2.4 GHz-only extender is one of the most reliable ways to get older or IoT-style devices (including many printers) connected without fighting dual-band “smart steering.”
 

I’m glad everything is running smoothly now, and thank you for sharing what worked; it really does help others facing the same issue.
 

If you ever need anything else, feel free to reach out anytime!

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