Skip to Content

How to Connect HP Printer to a Laptop

How tos and General Information on Common Tech
October 21, 2025 by
Roy Francis


Connecting an HP printer to your laptop is generally a straightforward process. You have several options: USB, Wi-Fi (wireless), and occasionally Ethernet. The best method depends on your printer model and what you want to do.


🖨️ How to Connect an HP Printer to a Laptop

Here's a breakdown of the three primary methods for connecting your HP printer to a laptop.


1. Wireless Connection (Wi-Fi) - Most Common Method

This popular method lets you print from anywhere on your Wi-Fi network, cable-free.


A. Setup using HP Smart App (Recommended)

Most modern HP printers are designed to be set up using the HP Smart app , which you can download from the Microsoft Store (for Windows) or the App Store (for macOS).

  1. Prepare the Printer: Ensure your HP printer is turned on, has paper, and is in setup mode. The exact process varies, but it often involves pressing and holding the Wi-Fi or 'i' (Information) button until the light flashes. Consult your printer's manual.
  2. Install App: Download and open the HP Smart app on your laptop.
  3. Add Printer: Click the "Add Printer" or '+' icon in the app. The app will search for new printers on your network.
  4. Follow Prompts: Select your printer from the list. The app will guide you through connecting the printer to your home Wi-Fi network and installing the necessary drivers.


B. Setup using Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) - If Available

If your router and printer support WPS, this can be a very quick connection method.

  1. Activate WPS on Printer: Press and hold the WPS button (often a button with a circular arrow icon) on your HP printer for a few seconds until a light starts blinking.
  2. Activate WPS on Router: Within two minutes of the previous step, press the WPS button on your Wi-Fi router.
  3. Wait for Connection: The printer should automatically connect to the network. Once connected, the Wi-Fi light on the printer will turn solid.
  4. Add to Laptop: On your laptop, go to Settings (Windows) or System Settings/Preferences (macOS) → Printers & Scanners (or similar) → Add Printer. Your printer should appear as a network device.


2. Wired Connection (USB) - Simplest Method

Connecting via a USB cable is the most direct way to print, but it requires the laptop to be physically close to the printer.

  1. Power On: Ensure your HP printer is plugged in and turned on.
  2. Connect Cable: Connect one end of a USB cable (usually a USB-A to USB-B type) to your laptop and the other end to the USB port on the back of the printer.

  3. Install Drivers: In most modern operating systems (Windows and macOS), the laptop will automatically detect the new hardware and attempt to install the correct drivers (the necessary software).

    • If the automatic installation fails, you may need to insert the setup CD that came with the printer or download the latest drivers directly from the official HP support website, searching for your specific printer model.
  4. Test Print: Once the driver installation is complete, you should be able to see the printer listed in your laptop's printer settings. Try a test print to confirm the connection.


3. Wired Network Connection (Ethernet) - For Shared or Office Use

Some higher-end or office printers have an Ethernet port , allowing you to connect the printer directly to a router or network switch via an Ethernet cable.

  1. Connect Cable: Plug an Ethernet cable into the printer's port and the other end into an open port on your router or network switch.
  2. Power On: Turn on the printer. It will acquire an IP address from your network.
  3. Add to Laptop: On your laptop, go to Settings → Printers & Scanners (or similar).
  4. Search: Your laptop, which must be on the same network, should be able to find and add the printer as a network device, typically prompting you to install the drivers.


troubleshooting TIPS

  • Restart Everything: If you run into issues, try turning off and on your printer, laptop, and router.
  • Check Drivers: If the printer connects but won't print, go to the HP website and download the latest drivers specifically for your operating system and model.
  • Firewall: Temporarily disable your firewall to see if it's blocking the communication, especially for Wi-Fi connections. If it works, you'll need to create an exception for the printer software.
  • Update OS: Ensure your laptop's operating system (Windows or macOS) is fully updated.
How to Speed up a Computer