How to Fix HP Printer Network Printer Configuration Error After Update?

HP printers are widely used in homes and offices for reliable wireless printing, scanning, and document management. However, after a Windows or macOS update, many users encounter a Network Printer Configuration Error. This issue typically prevents the printer from communicating with the network, causing printing failures or offline status errors.

What Causes HP Printer Network Printer Configuration Error After Update?

A network configuration error usually appears after:

Operating system updates (Windows/macOS)
Printer firmware updates
Router firmware updates
Corrupted printer drivers
Incorrect IP address configuration
Disabled printer services

Updates can modify system settings, firewall permissions, or network profiles, which may block the printer connection.

Check HP Smart Login and Account Setup

Many HP printers rely on the HP Smart app for configuration and network management.

HP Smart is used to set up, manage, and troubleshoot HP printers wirelessly.

Steps to Login or Sign Up:

Open the HP Smart application on your computer or mobile device.
Click Sign In.
Enter your HP account credentials.
If you don’t have an account, select Create Account and complete the signup process.
Verify your email and log in again.

Logging in ensures that your printer remains linked to your HP account and cloud services.

Download and Install the Latest HP Printer Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers are one of the most common causes of network configuration errors after updates.

Steps to Download and Install:

Remove the existing printer from your system.
Restart your computer.
Download the latest printer driver compatible with your operating system.
Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions.
Reconnect the printer to Wi-Fi during setup.

Installing updated drivers restores compatibility with the new operating system version.

Reconfigure HP Printer Network Settings

After a system update, the printer’s IP address may change, causing communication errors.

Reset Network Settings:

On the printer control panel, open Settings.
Select Network Setup.
Choose Restore Network Defaults.
Restart the printer.
Reconnect the printer to your Wi-Fi network using HP Smart.

This refreshes the printer’s network configuration and resolves IP conflicts.

Update HP Printer Firmware

Firmware updates improve security and compatibility.

Steps to Update Firmware:

Open HP Smart.
Select your printer.
Go to Advanced Settings.
Check for firmware updates.
Install updates if available.
Restart the printer.

Firmware updates can resolve compatibility issues caused by operating system updates.

Restart Windows Print Spooler Service

On Windows systems, the Print Spooler manages print jobs.

Restart Print Spooler:

Press Windows + R.
Type services.msc.
Locate Print Spooler.
Right-click and select Restart.

Restarting this service clears pending jobs and resolves configuration errors.

Disable Firewall or Antivirus Temporarily

After updates, firewall rules may block printer communication.

Temporarily disable firewall or antivirus.
Test printer connection.
If printing works, add the printer as an allowed device.
Re-enable security software.

Always ensure your system remains protected after testing.

Activate HP Printer Services

Some HP printers require activation for network features like cloud printing.

Open HP Smart.
Log in to your HP account.
Add your printer again if needed.
Confirm printer registration and activation.

Activation ensures remote and wireless features function correctly.

Advanced Troubleshooting for HP Printer Not Working After Update

If the issue persists:

1. Assign a Static IP Address

Set a manual IP address from your router settings to prevent automatic IP changes.

2. Remove and Re-add Printer

Go to Devices & Printers.
Remove the printer.
Add it again using “Add Printer.”

3. Run Windows Troubleshooter

Open Settings.
Go to System > Troubleshoot.
Select Printer Troubleshooter.

4. Perform a Full Printer Reset

Factory reset your printer and set it up again from scratch.

HP Printer Customer Support and Service Options

If troubleshooting does not resolve the issue, professional assistance may be required.

HP Inc. provides official support for printer setup, driver downloads, firmware updates, warranty service, and repair options.

Support services include:

Remote technical assistance
Warranty repair services
Driver and firmware updates
Network configuration support
Replacement parts

Contacting HP customer support ensures accurate diagnosis and proper resolution.

Prevent Future HP Printer Network Errors

To avoid configuration issues after updates:

Keep printer drivers updated.
Enable automatic firmware updates.
Maintain stable Wi-Fi connectivity.
Avoid frequent router resets.
Regularly restart printer and router.
Keep your HP account active in HP Smart.

Conclusion

The HP Printer Network Printer Configuration Error after an update is typically caused by driver incompatibility, firmware issues, or network misconfiguration. By reinstalling drivers, resetting network settings, updating firmware, and verifying HP Smart login, you can restore normal printing functionality.