Note: This guide specifically covers reconnecting your printer's WiFi after getting a new router or changing your WiFi password.
If Windows shows your printer as "offline" but the printer is already connected, see our guide: Printer Says Offline But It's On
Important: 2.4GHz vs. 5GHz WiFi
Most printers only support 2.4GHz WiFi, not the faster 5GHz band. If your new router is set to 5GHz only, or you're trying to connect to a 5GHz network, your printer won't see it.
Solution: Make sure your router broadcasts a 2.4GHz network. Most modern routers broadcast both at once, but some newer ones need this turned on in router settings.
Method #1: WPS Push Button (Easiest If Your Router Has It)
Use WPS (WiFi Protected Setup) to connect quickly if both your router and printer have a WPS button. This is the easiest connection method.
Steps:
- 1. Find the WPS button on your router (usually labeled "WPS" — might be on the back or side)
- 2. On your printer, go to WiFi settings on the display screen
- 3. Select "WPS" or "Push Button" setup
- 4. Press the WPS button on your router
- 5. Press OK or confirm on your printer
- 6. Wait about 1-2 minutes — the printer will connect automatically
Why This Works:
WPS creates a secure connection without you needing to type in a WiFi password. The router and printer exchange information directly for about 2 minutes after you press both buttons.
Method #2: Manual WiFi Setup (Works for All Printers)
Manually select your WiFi network and enter the password on the printer if your router doesn't have WPS or WPS didn't work.
General Steps (Works for Most Printers):
- 1. On your printer's display screen, look for Setup, Settings, or a Wireless icon
- 2. Navigate to Network Setup or WiFi Setup Wizard
- 3. The printer will scan for available networks
- 4. Select your WiFi network name from the list
- 5. Enter your WiFi password using the printer's on-screen keyboard
- 6. Confirm and wait for the printer to connect
- 7. Print a test page to confirm it's working
Brand-Specific Instructions
HP Printers:
- 1. Press the Wireless button on the printer (icon looks like radio waves)
- 2. Press Settings or the Gear icon
- 3. Select Wireless Setup Wizard
- 4. Choose your network and enter password
- 5. If you have HP Smart app on your phone, you can also set up WiFi through the app
Canon Printers:
- 1. Press and hold the WiFi button until the power light flashes
- 2. Press the Black or Color button
- 3. The printer will search for networks — this takes about 2 minutes
- 4. Once connected, the WiFi light will stop flashing and stay on
- 5. Install Canon print app on your computer or phone to complete setup
Epson Printers:
- 1. Press the Home button
- 2. Navigate to Setup → Network Settings
- 3. Select WiFi Setup Wizard
- 4. Choose your network from the list
- 5. Enter your WiFi password
- 6. For printers without a screen, use the Epson Connect app to set up WiFi
Brother Printers:
- 1. Press Menu
- 2. Select Network or WLAN
- 3. Choose Setup Wizard
- 4. Select your WiFi network
- 5. Enter password and confirm
- 6. Brother printers can be tricky with WiFi — if this doesn't work, consider using a USB cable instead
If Your Printer Has No Display Screen
Use your computer or phone to set up WiFi if your printer has no display screen. Some basic printers don't have displays.
Using Manufacturer App:
- 1. Download your printer's app (HP Smart, Canon Print, Epson Smart Panel, Brother Mobile Connect)
- 2. Open the app and select "Add a printer" or "Setup"
- 3. Follow the app's instructions to connect via WiFi
- 4. Make sure your phone/computer is on the same WiFi network you want the printer to use
After Connecting: Add Printer to Your Computer
Add your printer to your computer again once it's connected to WiFi.
Windows:
- 1. Press Windows key → type "printers"
- 2. Click Printers & scanners
- 3. Click Add a printer or scanner
- 4. Wait for your printer to appear, then click Add device
Mac:
- 1. Click Apple menu → System Settings → Printers & Scanners
- 2. Click the + button
- 3. Select your printer and click Add
Troubleshooting: Printer Still Won't Connect
If printer doesn't see your WiFi network:
- • Check if your router is broadcasting 2.4GHz (many printers can't see 5GHz)
- • Move printer closer to router during setup
- • Make sure your network name doesn't have special characters
If password keeps failing:
- • WiFi passwords are case-sensitive — check capitals
- • Make sure you're using your WiFi password, not your router login password
- • Try typing password on your phone first to make sure it works
If WPS didn't work:
- • Some routers disable WPS by default for security — check router settings
- • You must press both buttons within 2 minutes
- • If WPS fails, just use manual setup instead
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✗Don't try connecting to 5GHz WiFi: Most printers only support 2.4GHz networks.
- ✗Don't rush the password entry: One wrong character will make it fail. Take your time.
- ✗Don't forget to add the printer to your computer: Connecting to WiFi isn't enough — you need to add it in Windows/Mac settings too.
When to Consider a Wired Connection
If WiFi setup keeps failing, using an Ethernet cable (if your printer has an Ethernet port) or USB cable is actually more reliable and often faster.