How to Fix HP Printer Not Printing After Network Change

If your HP printer stops printing after you change your network, it can be frustrating. Network changes, such as updating Wi-Fi credentials, switching routers, or moving your printer to a different network, can disrupt the connection between your printer and computer.

What Causes HP Printer Not Printing After Network Change?

HP printers rely on a stable network connection to communicate with your devices. Changing your network can trigger issues such as:

Incorrect Wi-Fi settings – Your printer may still be trying to connect to the old network.
IP address changes – New routers often assign different IP addresses, causing the printer to be unreachable.
Firewall or security restrictions – Network security settings may block printer access.
Outdated printer drivers – Older drivers may not handle new network configurations properly.

Understanding these causes helps determine the correct troubleshooting steps.

How to Reconnect Your HP Printer to a New Network

Step 1: Check Network Connection

Ensure your new network is active and devices can connect to it. Make a note of the SSID (network name) and password.

Step 2: Use HP Smart or Printer Control Panel

On your HP printer, navigate to Settings → Network Setup → Wireless Settings.
Select your new Wi-Fi network and enter the password.
Alternatively, you can use the HP Smart App on your phone or computer to connect your printer to the new network.

Step 3: Verify Printer Connection

Print a Wireless Test Report from the printer to confirm it’s connected to the correct network.

Update HP Printer Drivers After Network Change

Outdated drivers can prevent your computer from detecting the printer on a new network.

Visit the official HP Support site for your printer model.
Download the latest drivers and software compatible with your OS.
Install the driver and restart your computer.
Reconnect the printer via the HP Smart App or manually add it through Devices & Printers on Windows or Printers & Scanners on macOS.

Troubleshooting HP Printer Not Printing After Network Change

Even after reconnecting, your printer may still not print. Try these troubleshooting steps:

1. Restart Devices

Turn off the printer, router, and computer. Wait 30 seconds and restart them in the following order: router → printer → computer.

2. Assign a Static IP Address

Changing networks can assign a new IP to your printer, breaking the connection. Assigning a static IP ensures your devices always locate the printer.

3. Check Firewall or Antivirus Settings

Temporarily disable firewall or antivirus software to see if it’s blocking the printer connection. Re-enable them after testing.

4. Reinstall HP Printer

Remove the printer from your devices and add it again:

Windows: Settings → Devices → Printers & Scanners → Remove device → Add printer
Mac: System Preferences → Printers & Scanners → Remove → Add

How to Use HP Smart for Easy Printer Setup

The HP Smart App is the easiest way to reconnect your printer after a network change:

Download HP Smart on Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS.
Open the app and select Set Up a New Printer.
Follow the on-screen instructions to connect to your new network.
Print a test page to confirm the connection.

Contact HP Customer Support

If your printer still fails to print after following all the steps, you can reach HP support:

Call or chat with HP customer service for real-time troubleshooting.
HP support can provide remote guidance, firmware updates, or advise on repair services if necessary.

Tips to Avoid Network-Related Printer Issues

Always update printer firmware via HP Smart or HP Support Assistant.
Use a consistent SSID and password if you switch routers frequently.
Keep the HP Smart App installed for easy management and troubleshooting.
Regularly check your printer’s network status and Wi-Fi signal strength.

Conclusion

HP printers can sometimes stop printing after a network change due to incorrect settings, IP conflicts, or outdated drivers. By reconnecting your printer to the new network, updating drivers, and using HP Smart for setup, you can restore printing quickly. Regular maintenance and firmware updates help prevent similar issues in the future.