Why my Printer Won’t Connect to Wi-Fi? [Reasons Explained]

printer wont connect to wifi

Printers are used worldwide for printing important documents, high-quality photos and other files. You can see several brands of printers available. They tend to optimize the productivity of businesses. Are you relying on Wi-Fi-enabled printing devices? Issues such as the printer won't connect to Wi-Fi can be frustrating. When this error occurs, the device fails to connect with a Wi-Fi network properly. In such a situation, the first thing you can do is identify the cause of the problem. 

This useful guide will discuss why a printer fails to connect to a Wi-Fi network. Please go through it and understand the cause thoroughly. 

Reason 1: Outdated or Incompatible Printer Drivers 

When you have an outdated or damaged printer driver, it can cause several issues because the printer can't connect to Wi-Fi. The latest updated version of printer drivers connects the device easily to other devices. And gives users the best experience too. If your printer fails to connect, you can update the driver automatically or manually. Visit the manufacturer's site of your printer. Search for the latest and compatible printer driver per your printer's model. It will help connect your printer and resolve other malfunctions too. 

Reason 2: Wi-Fi Connectivity Issue

Sometimes, the router can drop the connection when you don't enter the right configuration settings. Wi-Fi router includes certain things based on connection speed and the internet service provider. All these things are important, and the printer can fail to connect if you don't add suitable settings. You can get essential information from your internet service provider, including a static IP address and more. 

Reason 3: Some Antivirus Software or Firewall Block the Connection 

why wont my printer connect to wifi

Firewalls and antivirus programs are important for data security and protection over the network. However, there are times when they can block the connection to a Wi-Fi network. It usually happens after the software goes through an update. The update changes some settings without you being aware. And in the end, it results in a blocked connection. Proceed to restore the antivirus default settings. Moreover, you can disable it. 

You can contact printer experts through calls or live chat for a quick solution to a printer that won't connect to Wi-Fi. Visit our Support page and ask live support agents for free consultations. 

Reason 4: Malfunctioning of Wi-Fi Router 

printer won't connect to wifi issue

The router includes built-in firmware. It helps in the device setup, operation and security. When there is an error in the Wi-Fi router, it can lead to several issues, that include the printer won't connect to Wi-Fi too. Please don't bother, as it is a common problem. The internet can go down at any hour and frustrate printer users. At times your router malfunctions; work on it to fix it immediately. Otherwise, your printing device cannot connect, and thus you can't print. 

Reason 5: Incorrect Wi-Fi Password or Network Credentials 

A correct credential is important to access the Wi-Fi network. Users can fail to connect to the Wi-Fi when they forget the password or enter incorrect credentials. Most often, it happens when you have multiple routers. Usually, at the office, multiple routers are present for a connection; thus, you can get confused. The printer can only connect to a network when the password credentials are correct. 

Reason 6: The Printer is Out of the Range of Wi-Fi 

The router gives a signal to the printer for a successful connection. What when both devices are at a distance than expected? For an effective connection of a wireless printer, it should be in the range of a Wi-Fi network. The Wi-Fi connection error can arise with the printer when the devices are not placed close. 

Reason 7: Wi-Fi Router or the Printer is Turned Off 

connect printer to wifi

Turning it off forces the device to stop working. Also, the printer can fail to connect to a Wi-Fi network when the router or printer is turned off. A turned-off router cannot work and thus can't connect with the printer. Is your printer not connecting even while the router and printer are turned on? Connect with the printer's live agent and request a free consultation to fix the issue. Visit the Support page and discuss your problems. 

Reason 8: The Printer is Trying to Connect to an Old Wi-Fi Profile Network

Are you finding problems while connecting your printer to a Wi-Fi network? There might be a chance the printer is trying to connect to an old Wi-Fi network. When you change the router or your network credentials, the printer retains all the information of an old network. And this leads to the printer not being able to connect the issue. 

These are some key reasons the printer can't connect to a Wi-Fi network. 

Conclusion 

Wi-Fi connectivity makes the printer free of wires. Users can print from anywhere from the device they have. But what if the printer won't connect to Wi-Fi? The reasons for the error are more likely associated with some software and hardware. The issue will likely occur if the printer or router can't meet the proper connection criteria.

Frequently Asked Questions


Question

Why is My HP Printer Not Connecting to a Wi-Fi Network?

Wireless connectivity offers numerous benefits, but sometimes, the printer can't connect to a network. Here are the key causes of the issue. 

  1. The printer is not close to the router. 
  2. Incorrect credentials. 
  3. A firewall or antivirus is blocking the network connection.
  4. There is a malfunctioning router. 
  5. The printer drivers are outdated or damaged.
Question

How Can I Troubleshoot Wireless Printer Problems?

You can experience several issues while working with your printer as a printer user. Below are some troubleshooting solutions to resolve the error. 

  1. Examine the printer queue and clear it if required.
  2. Restart your printer and the router. 
  3. Reset the printer.
  4. Up-to-date your printer's drivers and firmware. 
  5. Confirm the printer and your device are on the same network. 

Additionally, you can contact a live support agent from our Support page and ask for a free consultation.

Question

How to Connect an Offline Printer to a Wi-Fi Network?

You may experience printer offline error, and the printer can fail to connect. Try the solutions below to get it connected. 

  1. Reboot or unplug the devices. Perform a fresh start. 
  2. Bring your printer close to the router. 
  3. Confirm the printer drivers are up-to-date. 
  4. Try plugging your printer directly into the router. 
  5. Type in the correct password credentials.
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