Before starting, confirm that the printer has built-in Wi‑Fi. A USB-only printer cannot join your wireless network directly. You will also need the exact Wi‑Fi network name (SSID) and password. The printer and the phone or computer normally need to be on the same local network; an internet connection is not required once local Wi‑Fi printing is working.
What you need before connecting the printer
- A printer that supports Wi‑Fi or wireless networking.
- Your router’s Wi‑Fi name, or SSID.
- The Wi‑Fi password, including uppercase and lowercase characters.
- Access to the printer’s screen, the manufacturer’s setup app, or a temporary USB cable.
Do not confuse your normal Wi‑Fi password with the printer’s Wi‑Fi Direct password. Wi‑Fi Direct is a separate connection method that links a device directly to the printer without placing the printer on your home network.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Method 1: Connect from the printer’s control panel
This is usually the most direct method when the printer has a display. Menu names differ by model, but the process is broadly the same.
- Open Settings, Network, Wireless, or Wi‑Fi on the printer.
- Select Wireless Setup Wizard, Wi‑Fi Setup Wizard, SSID List, or a similarly named option.
- Choose your home Wi‑Fi network from the list.
- Enter the Wi‑Fi password exactly. Check capitalization, numbers, and special characters.
- Confirm the settings and wait for the printer to display a connected message or Wi‑Fi indicator.
For example, some HP printers place the option under Wireless or Setup → Network setup. Some HP LaserJet Enterprise models use Settings → Networking → Wireless → Wireless Station, followed by SSID LIST and Authentication. These paths are model-specific, so use the printer’s manual if the labels do not match. HP provides separate instructions for general printer reconnection and LaserJet Enterprise wireless setup.
#1 Best Overall
- UPC: 198828789662
- Weight: 10.450 lbs
Method 2: Use WPS
Wi‑Fi Protected Setup, or WPS, lets compatible devices join the router without manually typing the network password. Both the router and printer must support WPS.
- On the printer, open the wireless settings and choose WPS, Push Button, or Wi‑Fi Protected Setup.
- Press the physical WPS button on the router.
- Complete any confirmation required on the printer within the time shown on its display.
- Wait for the printer to report a successful connection.
The timing and button sequence vary. Epson documents a two-minute window for some models, while other printers use a different procedure. If WPS fails, use the Wireless Setup Wizard or the manufacturer’s setup app instead. See Epson’s Wi‑Fi troubleshooting guidance or HP’s WPS setup instructions.
Method 3: Use the printer manufacturer’s app
An app or desktop installer is often easier than entering a long password on a small printer screen. Connect your phone or computer to the Wi‑Fi network you want the printer to use before opening the installer.
HP printers
- Connect the phone or computer to the intended Wi‑Fi network.
- Turn on Bluetooth so the HP app can detect a nearby printer during setup.
- Open the HP app.
- Choose Set Up a New Printer or Add Printer.
- Select the printer and follow the on-screen instructions.
If the printer is not detected, restore its Wi‑Fi setup mode and try again. HP says many printers must be added within two hours after Wi‑Fi setup mode is restored. The steps are described in HP’s printer setup instructions.
Rank #2
- Affordable Versatility - A budget-friendly all-in-one printer perfect for both home users and hybrid workers, offering exceptional value
- Crisp, Vibrant Prints - Experience impressive print quality for both documents and photos, thanks to its 2-cartridge hybrid ink system that delivers sharp text and vivid colors
- Effortless Setup & Use - Get started quickly with easy setup for your smartphone or computer, so you can print, scan, and copy without delay
- Reliable Wireless Connectivity - Enjoy stable and consistent connections with dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz or 5GHz), ensuring smooth printing from anywhere in your home or office
- Scan & Copy Handling - Utilize the device’s integrated scanner for efficient scanning and copying operations
Brother printers
Brother’s installer may show options such as Wireless Network Connection, Next, Yes, I want to connect the machine to this wireless network, and Yes (recommended). Select the wireless connection option and provide the SSID and password when prompted. The exact screens depend on the printer model; Brother shows an example of the process in its wireless setup guide.
Add the Wi‑Fi printer in Windows 11 or Windows 10
First connect the printer to Wi‑Fi using one of the methods above. Then add it to Windows:
- Select Start → Settings.
- In Windows 11, open Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners. The same Printers & scanners page is available through Windows 10 Settings.
- Under Add a printer or scanner, select Add device.
- Wait while Windows searches for available printers.
- Select your printer and choose Add device.
If it does not appear, select The printer that I want isn’t listed, then choose Add a new device manually. Follow the wizard and provide the printer’s details if requested.
Windows commonly installs basic printer support automatically. Windows Update or the manufacturer may offer an additional driver for scanning, status monitoring, duplex settings, or other model-specific features. On an ARM-based Windows PC, including some Copilot+ PCs, a traditional manufacturer installer may not work. Check Settings → System → About → System type, and prefer Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners → Add device if the system is ARM-based. Microsoft’s printer installation guide covers both cases.
Rank #3
- Affordable Versatility - A budget-friendly all-in-one printer perfect for both home users and hybrid workers, offering exceptional value
- Crisp, Vibrant Prints - Experience impressive print quality for both documents and photos, thanks to its 2-cartridge hybrid ink system that delivers sharp text and vivid colors
- Effortless Setup & Use - Get started quickly with easy setup for your smartphone or computer, so you can print, scan, and copy without delay
- Reliable Wireless Connectivity - Enjoy stable and consistent connections with dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz or 5GHz), ensuring smooth printing from anywhere in your home or office
- Scan & Copy Handling - Utilize the device’s integrated scanner for efficient scanning and copying operations
Add the printer on a Mac
- Open the Apple menu and select System Settings.
- Select Printers & Scanners.
- Choose Add Printer, Scanner, or Fax.
- Select the printer from the list.
- Click Add.
Many compatible printers use Apple AirPrint, so macOS can print without a separate manufacturer driver or app. If automatic discovery fails, add the printer by IP address. macOS can use AirPrint, Internet Printing Protocol (IPP), Line Printer Daemon (LPD), or HP Jetdirect – Socket, depending on the printer.
If the printer has never been configured for Wi‑Fi, some models require a temporary USB connection to the Mac and the manufacturer’s setup assistant. Once the printer joins Wi‑Fi, disconnect the USB cable and add the printer through System Settings → Printers & Scanners. Apple documents these options in its Mac printer setup guide.
Print from an iPhone or iPad
The printer must support AirPrint and be connected to Wi‑Fi or Ethernet.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →- Open the document, photo, email, or web page you want to print.
- Tap Share, More, Reply, or the app’s Actions menu.
- Tap Print.
- Tap No Printer Selected.
- Select the AirPrint printer.
- Choose options such as page range or number of copies.
- Tap Print.
Not every iPhone or iPad app includes printing. AirPrint also does not work with a printer connected to a computer through Bluetooth or to an Apple AirPort device through USB. Apple lists the supported workflow in its AirPrint instructions.
Rank #4
- AFFORDABLE ALL-IN-ONE FOR HOME AND HOME OFFICE: Print, copy, and scan on one compact wireless printer designed for everyday home office printing, schoolwork, documents, and reports. Produce beautiful prints for results that stand out.
- EASY TO USE WITH CLOUD APP CONNECTIONS: Print from and scan to popular Cloud apps(2), including Google Drive, Dropbox, Box, OneDrive, and more from the simple-to-use 1.8” color display on your printer.
- FULL-SIZE FEATURES IN A COMPACT DESIGN: This printer includes automatic duplex (2-sided) printing, a 20-sheet single-sided Automatic Document Feeder (ADF)(3), and a 150-sheet paper tray(3). Engineered to print at fast speeds of up to 16 pages per minute (ppm) in black and up to 9 ppm in color(4).
- MULTIPLE CONNECTION OPTIONS: Connect your way. Interface with your printer on your wireless network or via USB.
- MOBILE PRINTING MADE EASY: Go mobile with the Brother Mobile Connect app(5) that delivers easy onscreen menu navigation for printing, copying, scanning, and device management from your mobile device. Monitor your ink usage with Page Gauge to help ensure you don’t run out(6).
Wi‑Fi Direct: useful, but not the same as Wi‑Fi setup
Wi‑Fi Direct creates a wireless link between the printer and a phone or computer without using the router. It can help when:
- The printer cannot join the existing network.
- You need to print temporarily from a laptop or phone.
- The network blocks communication between connected devices.
Wi‑Fi Direct does not place the printer on your home network. Other devices connected to that network may not discover it. On HP printers, the Wi‑Fi Direct name and password can usually be viewed from the printer’s control panel or the HP app’s advanced network settings. See HP’s Wi‑Fi Direct guide.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Fix common wireless printer problems
| Problem | What to check |
|---|---|
| The printer cannot see your Wi‑Fi | Check whether the printer supports the router’s band and security mode. Some printers support only 2.4 GHz, while others support 5 GHz as well. Also check signal strength, hidden SSIDs, and combined 2.4/5 GHz band steering. Do not assume that every printer requires 2.4 GHz; verify the model’s specifications. |
| The printer is connected but not found | Confirm that the device and printer use the same SSID. Guest networks, extenders, second routers, AP isolation, client isolation, and Privacy Separator settings can block local discovery. |
| The Wi‑Fi password or router changed | Use Restore Network Settings, Reset Network Settings, or the printer’s Wi‑Fi setup mode. Then run the Wireless Setup Wizard or manufacturer app again. |
| The printer says offline | Restart the printer, then print a Network Status Sheet, Network Configuration Page, or Connection Report if available. Remove and re-add the printer if the computer’s queue still points to an old IP address. |
When the printer is on a different network
Being connected to the same internet service is not enough. For example, a laptop on a guest SSID and a printer on the main SSID may both have internet access but still be unable to communicate. An extender or second router can cause the same problem if it creates a separate routed network.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Check the network name shown on both devices. If your router has AP isolation, client isolation, or a Privacy Separator feature enabled, disable it only if you need local device-to-device printing and understand the network-security consequences. Microsoft identifies separate access-point and router networks as a common reason Windows cannot discover a printer, while Epson notes that Privacy Separator can prevent network printing.
Best Value
- Wireless Bluetooth Printer: Portable thermal printer compatible with iPhone, Android phones, iPad and tablet computers via Bluetooth. For smartphones, please download the "Nada Print" App. You can also connect to laptops and computers for printing using a USB-C cable. (Note: Laptops and computers can only be connected via USB and require the installation of a driver first. Bluetooth connection is not supported.)
- No-ink printing: Only supports US Letter and A4 size thermal paper.(Doesn't support regular paper) The no-ink portable thermal printer uses direct thermal technology, requiring no ink, toner or ribbons, making it environmentally friendly, cost-effective and time-saving. The thermal printer package comes with a roll of US Letter thermal printing paper. Note: When installing the paper, remember to switch the paper size switch on APP
- Clear Print: NDYIN N80 portable thermal printer adopts high-definition printing technology, with a 203DPI resolution to provide you with clear printing results. This mobile printer is compatible with roll paper, folded paper and tattoo transfer paper, supporting printing from your mobile phone PDF, Word, pictures and web pages anytime and anywhere. It is recommended to use our NDYIN thermal paper to achieve good printing quality
- Portable wireless printer for travel: The thermal printer is equipped with a built-in 1500mAh rechargeable battery, which can print 160 sheets of 8.5" x 11" thermal paper after being fully charged. It weighs only 1.5 pounds and is compact in size. This ink-free portable printer can be easily carried in a backpack or briefcase! It is perfect for business travel, cars, small offices, construction sites, schools and homes. You can print documents, contracts, invoices and boarding passes anytime and anywhere
- The N80 thermal printer has a wide range of uses. The package includes the N80 printer, a roll of US Letter paper(7m/roll), a user manual, a guide card, a type-C soft cable and a type C adapter. Note: The charging adapter is not included. Special thermal paper is required for use; ordinary paper cannot be used. This ink-free portable thermal printer is suitable for various scenarios such as home, school, travel, office, and outdoor, meeting the printing needs of different groups of people. This tattoo template printer is also compatible with tattoo transfer paper, making it an ideal choice for tattoo art
When re-adding the printer is necessary
A printer can remain connected to Wi‑Fi while the computer’s saved print queue still references an old IP address. This often happens after replacing a router or changing network settings. Print the printer’s current network report, remove the old printer entry from Windows or macOS, and add it again. On macOS, adding it by the current IP address can help when Bonjour discovery does not work. On Windows, use The printer that I want isn’t listed → Add a new device manually.
What wireless printing does not require
- You do not always need the manufacturer’s driver. Windows often provides basic support, and macOS can use AirPrint.
- The printer does not generally need internet access to print locally. It needs a working local connection to the computer or phone.
- There is no universal printer menu path. The names and button combinations vary by manufacturer, model, and firmware.
- A 5 GHz router is not automatically incompatible. Some printers support 5 GHz; others support only 2.4 GHz.
FAQ
Can I connect a USB-only printer to Wi‑Fi?
Not directly. A USB-only printer has no wireless network hardware. You can still share it through a computer or use a compatible print server, but that is different from connecting the printer itself to Wi‑Fi.
Does the printer need internet access to print?
Usually no. Once the printer and computer or phone can communicate over the same local network, local printing can work without internet access. Cloud printing, firmware updates, and some manufacturer services may still require internet.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Why is my Wi‑Fi printer connected but not showing up?
Check that both devices are on the same SSID rather than one being on a guest network. Also check extenders, second routers, AP or client isolation, Privacy Separator settings, and whether the computer has saved an old printer IP address.
Should I use Wi‑Fi Direct or my home Wi‑Fi?
Use home Wi‑Fi when several devices need to print and you want normal network discovery. Use Wi‑Fi Direct for a temporary one-device connection or when the printer cannot join the existing network. Wi‑Fi Direct does not put the printer on your home network.
The Bottom Line
Join the printer to Wi‑Fi with its Wireless Setup Wizard, WPS, or the manufacturer’s setup app, then add it in Windows through Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners, or on Mac through System Settings → Printers & Scanners. If discovery fails, check the SSID, guest-network and isolation settings, Wi‑Fi band compatibility, and whether the computer is using an outdated printer queue.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
