How to connect HP printer to wifi is a common question for users who no longer have the installation CD or prefer not to use any mobile or desktop app. The good news is that HP printers are designed to connect wirelessly using built-in features, browser-based setup, and standard network methods. In this detailed guide, you’ll learn multiple reliable ways to connect your HP printer to WiFi without a CD or app, along with troubleshooting tips to ensure a smooth setup.
Why You Don’t Need a CD or App Anymore
Older HP printers relied heavily on CDs for driver installation, but modern operating systems and printers no longer require them. CDs can be outdated, incompatible with newer computers, or simply misplaced. HP printers now support wireless setup using WiFi Direct, Embedded Web Server (EWS), WPS, and automatic driver installation through your operating system.
Skipping CDs and apps makes the process faster, more flexible, and compatible with multiple devices.
Things to Check Before You Start
Before connecting your HP printer to WiFi, make sure the following requirements are met:
A stable WiFi network with SSID and password
Your printer is turned ON and in ready state
The printer is within range of the WiFi router
A computer or laptop connected to the same WiFi network
The printer is not already connected to another network
If the printer was previously connected to a different WiFi network, resetting network settings is recommended.
Method 1: Connect HP Printer to WiFi Using WPS Button
This is one of the easiest methods and does not require any software.
Steps:
Turn on your HP printer.
Locate the Wireless button on the printer control panel.
Press and hold the Wireless button for 5 seconds until the blue light starts blinking.
Within 2 minutes, press the WPS button on your WiFi router.
Wait for 1–2 minutes while the printer connects to the network.
Once the wireless light stops blinking and becomes solid, your printer is connected.
Note: This method works only if your router supports WPS.
Method 2: Connect HP Printer Using Embedded Web Server (EWS)
Most HP printers come with a built-in web interface that allows wireless setup through a browser.
Steps:
Turn on the printer.
Print a Network Configuration Page (usually by pressing Wireless + Cancel buttons together).
Note the printer’s IP address.
Open a web browser on your computer.
Type the printer’s IP address in the address bar and press Enter.
The HP Embedded Web Server page will open.
Go to Network > Wireless Setup Wizard.
Select your WiFi network name.
Enter the WiFi password and confirm.
The printer will restart and connect to the WiFi network automatically.
Method 3: Connect HP Printer Using WiFi Direct (No Router Needed)
WiFi Direct allows your computer or phone to connect directly to the printer.
Steps:
Turn on WiFi Direct from the printer control panel.
On your computer, open WiFi settings.
Select the printer’s WiFi Direct name (e.g., HP-Direct-XX).
Enter the WiFi Direct password (found on the printer display or info page).
Once connected, open a browser.
Access the printer’s IP (usually 192.168.223.1).
Use Wireless Setup Wizard to connect printer to your main WiFi network.
This method is useful when the printer isn’t connected to any network.
Method 4: Connect HP Printer to WiFi Using Windows Built-In Drivers
Windows can automatically detect and install HP printer drivers without a CD or app.
Steps:
Turn on your printer.
Connect the printer to your computer temporarily using a USB cable.
Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
Click Add a Printer.
Windows will detect the printer and install drivers automatically.
Once installed, go to Printer Properties > Ports > Configure Port.
Select Wireless or Network option.
Disconnect the USB cable once WiFi setup is complete.
Your printer will remain connected wirelessly.
Method 5: Reset Printer Network Settings and Reconnect
If the printer fails to connect, resetting network settings can help.
Steps:
Turn on the printer.
Press and hold Cancel (X) and Wireless buttons together for 5 seconds.
The printer’s network settings will reset.
Reconnect using WPS or Embedded Web Server methods.
This clears old WiFi credentials and allows a fresh connection.
How to Confirm HP Printer Is Connected to WiFi
You can verify the connection by:
Printing a Network Configuration Page
Checking the Wireless LED (solid blue means connected)
Viewing the printer under Devices and Printers on your computer
Printing a test page wirelessly
If the printer appears online and responds to print commands, the setup is successful.
Common Issues and Fixes
Printer Not Found on Network
Ensure printer and computer are on the same WiFi network
Restart router and printer
Disable VPN temporarily
Incorrect WiFi Password
Re-enter password carefully (case-sensitive)
Avoid special characters if possible
Weak WiFi Signal
Move printer closer to router
Avoid placing near metal objects or microwaves
Advantages of Connecting HP Printer Without CD or App
Faster setup process
No dependency on outdated CDs
Works on multiple operating systems
Saves storage space
Ideal for laptops without CD drives
Final Thoughts
Setting up an HP printer wirelessly without a CD or app is not only possible but often easier and more reliable. Whether you use WPS, Embedded Web Server, WiFi Direct, or built-in system drivers, HP provides flexible options to ensure seamless wireless printing. By following the steps outlined above, you can get your printer online quickly and avoid unnecessary software installations.
Connect HP printer to wifi easily by choosing the method that best suits your printer model and network setup, and enjoy smooth, cable-free printing anytime.
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