An HP printer is not found by the HP Smart app or the operating system. Make sure the software is up to date and the connection between your device and the printer is working.
Create or restore the connection to your HP printer by its connection setup type.
Check for network issues and review setup requirements if your wireless printer is not found by HP Smart.
Perform the following tasks in the order given. Return to HP Smart after each task to see if the issue is resolved.
Restart the printer and the computer or mobile device to clear possible error conditions.
Restore Wi-Fi setup mode.
Printers with a touchscreen control panel: On the control panel, open the Wireless or Setup menu, select Network Setup or Settings, and then select Restore Network Settings.
Printers without a touchscreen control panel: Use the control panel buttons to Restore Wi-Fi setup mode on your HP printer.
On your computer or mobile device, open the list of available networks.
If the network you are connected to is not yours, disconnect from the network and reconnect to your normal Wi-Fi network. Do not connect to the printer Wi-Fi signal DIRECT-xx-HP [your printer model name].
A printer connection cannot be established over public or guest networks that allow guest logins used in schools, hotels, or coffee shops.
If the network status is not connected, connect to your network, and then check the status again. A check mark or connected status displays next to the network name when connected.
Enable additional connections on your computer or mobile device.
Turn on Wi-Fi (PCs only): Enable Wi-Fi even if the computer is connected to the network with Ethernet. If Wi-Fi does not turn on while using the wired connection, disconnect the Ethernet cable temporarily to enable Wi-Fi.
Turn on Bluetooth: HP Smart uses Bluetooth to detect the printer.
Enable location setting (mobile devices only): After installing HP Smart for iOS and Android, enable the location service in device settings to allow the app to use your location and Bluetooth.
Move the printer and the computer or mobile device within eight meters (26 feet) of the router or range extender, and then check the connection status.
Printer connection: If the wireless light or icon is solid and blue, the printer is connected to the network. If it is off or flashing, the printer is not connected to the network.
Computer or mobile device connection: Check the network signal strength. If the wireless icon shows a weak signal status , move closer to the router or range extender until a strong signal displays . Walls, metal bookcases, and electronics that emit radio signals can weaken the wireless signal.
Reinstall HP Smart from your app store, and then add the printer again.
Open a website to confirm the internet service is working. If page load time is slow or intermittent, restart the router. If necessary, contact your internet service provider to check if the service is down.
Check for network issues and review setup requirements if your wired network (Ethernet) printer is not found with HP Smart.
Perform the following tasks in the order given. Return to the app after each task to see if the issue is resolved.
Disconnect the Ethernet cable from the router and the printer. Check the cable for damage, and then verify that it is an Ethernet cable and not a phone cable.
Ethernet and phone cables look similar, but Ethernet cables are usually bigger and have eight visible wires on the connector.
Reconnect the cable to a different Ethernet or LAN port on the router, and then connect the other end to the printer Ethernet port . Check the Ethernet port lights. The green light is steady and the orange activity light blinks when the connection is established.
Some printers might not connect immediately. Wait for the Ethernet icon or the Wi-Fi icon and light to turn solid on the printer control panel.
On your computer or mobile device, open the list of available networks.
If the network you are connected to is not yours, disconnect from the network and reconnect to your normal network. Do not connect to the printer Wi-Fi signal DIRECT-xx-HP [your printer model name].
A printer connection cannot be established over public or guest networks that allow guest logins used in schools, hotels, or coffee shops.
If the network status is not connected, connect to your network, and then check the status again. A check mark or connected status displays next to the network name when connected.
Find your printer IP address.
HP Smart app: From the app home screen, click the image of your printer, and then click Network Information to find the IP address.
Printers with a touchscreen control panel: On the control panel, open the Wireless Summary or Network Settings menu to find the IP address.
Printers without a touchscreen control panel: On the control panel, press the Information button to print an Information Report, and then find the IP address on the printout. Printing reports from the control panel can vary by printer model.
Return to HP Smart and select Add Using IP Address to manually add the printer to the app.
Reinstall HP Smart from your app store, and then add the printer again.
Open a website to confirm the internet service is working. If page load time is slow or intermittent, restart the router. If necessary, contact your internet service provider to check if the service is down.
If your USB printer is not found by the HP Smart app, make sure Windows is up to date, check for USB connection issues, and then reinstall the app.
An HP+ or eligible printer cannot enroll in HP Smart Advance or Instant Ink using a USB connection. Use the HP Smart app to set up the printer over a Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection to access advanced features. For more information, go to HP printer setup (HP Smart app).
Install any new or optional Windows Updates.
Search Windows for and open Check for updates, and then click Check for updates if it does not automatically start.
If Windows finds any new updates, wait for the computer to automatically download and install them.
If Windows does not find any new updates, continue with these steps.
Search Windows for and open Optional Updates, select the optional updates you want to install, and then click Download & Install.
Restart your computer when prompted to finish installing the updates.
If the USB printer is not found by HP Smart, check the USB cable for damage and its connection to the computer.
Disconnect the USB cable from the printer and computer.
Make sure the cable is no longer than 3 m (9 ft 10 in) and free from damage such as fraying or severe bending.
If the cable is too long or damaged, replace it.
If the cable is the correct length and not damaged, continue with these steps.
Reconnect the USB cable to the printer, and then connect the other end directly into a USB port on the computer.
USB hubs might not provide enough power for the printer to function properly.
Wait up to 15 minutes for Windows to install the basic print drivers.
Search Windows for and open Devices & Printers, and then look for your printer name in the list of connected devices.
If the printer is not in the list, continue with these steps.
If the printer is in the list, open the HP Smart app, and then click Add printer or the Add icon . Follow the prompts to set up a USB connection. If the issue persists, continue to the next step.
Connect the USB cable to a different USB port on the computer.
Open the HP Smart app, and then click Add printer or the Add icon .
Follow the prompts to set up a USB connection.
Uninstall the HP Smart app in Windows, and then reinstall the app and follow the instructions to set up a USB connection.
Disconnect any USB cables from the printer.
Search Windows for and open Add or remove programs.
Right-click HP Smart in the list, and then click Uninstall.
If a User Account Control message displays, click Yes.
Follow the instructions to complete the software removal, and then restart the computer.
Search Windows for and open Control Panel.
Click Devices and Printers, and then look for the name of the printer in the list.
If the printer name is listed, right-click the icon, and then select Remove Device or Uninstall device.
If the printer name is not listed, continue with these steps.
Go to HP Smart - Microsoft Store (in English), and then click Install.
Open the HP Smart app, and then click Add printer or the Add icon .
Follow the prompts to set up a USB connection.
If the HP Smart app cannot find your USB-connected printer, make sure your macOS is up to date, check for USB connection issues, and then reinstall the app.
An HP+ or eligible printer cannot enroll in HP Smart Advance or Instant Ink using a USB connection. Use the HP Smart app to set up the printer over a Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection to access advanced features. For more information, go to HP printer setup (HP Smart app).
On your Mac, click the Spotlight icon to search for and open Software Update.
If there are no updates, continue with these steps.
If there are updates, follow the prompts to update and restart the Mac. After the restart, open the HP Smart app. Click Add printer or the Add icon if necessary, and then follow the prompts to set up a USB connection. If the issue persists, continue with these steps.
Disconnect the USB cable from the printer and computer.
Make sure the cable is no longer than 3 m (9 ft 10 in) and free from damage such as fraying or severe bending.
If the cable is too long or damaged, replace it.
If the cable is the correct length and not damaged, continue with these steps.
Reconnect the USB cable to the printer, and then connect the other end directly into a USB port on the computer.
USB hubs might not provide enough power for the printer to function properly.
Wait up to 15 minutes for macOS to install the print drivers.
On your Mac, click the Spotlight icon to search for and open Printers & Scanners.
Look for the name of your printer in the list of connected devices.
If the printer is not in the list, continue with these steps.
If the printer is in the list, open the HP Smart app. Click Add printer or the Add icon , and then follow the prompts to set up a USB connection. If the issue persists, continue with these steps.
Connect the USB cable to a different USB port on the Mac.
Open the HP Smart app, click Add printer or the Add icon , and then wait for the app to find your printer.
If HP Smart app does not find your printer, continue with these steps.
If HP Smart app does find your printer, follow the prompts to complete the USB printer setup.
Uninstall the HP Smart app.
On your Mac, click the Spotlight icon , and then search for and open the Applications folder.
Click and drag HP Smart to the Trash icon in the Dock.
Right-click the Trash icon, and then click Empty Trash.
Restart the Mac to complete the uninstall.
Go to HP Smart - Mac App Store (in English), and then click Install.
Open the HP Smart app, and then click Add printer or the Add icon .
Follow the prompts to set up a USB connection.
Troubleshoot issues if your printer is not found on a Windows desktop or notebook PC.
What to do when HP Easy Start for Windows cannot find your printer.
Perform the following tasks in the order given. Return to HP Easy Start after each task to see if the issue is resolved.
Restart the printer and the computer to clear possible error conditions.
Check for issues and review requirements for your connection type.
Wi-Fi printer setup
Move the printer within 8 m (26 ft) of the router or range extender, and then check the Wireless light is solid blue. If the light is off or flashing, the printer is not connected to the network.
Make sure the computer is connected to the correct network. If the wireless icon shows a weak signal , move closer to the router or range extender until a strong signal displays . Walls, metal bookcases, and electronics that emit radio signals can weaken the wireless signal.
A printer connection cannot be established over public or guest networks that require a guest login or confirmation of use, such as networks used in schools, hotels, or coffee shops.
Disconnect any printer USB cables to prevent Wi-Fi setup issues.
Open a website to confirm the internet service is working. If page load time is slow or intermittent, restart the router. If necessary, contact your internet service provider to check if the service is down.
Wired network (Ethernet) printer setup
Disconnect the Ethernet cable from the router and the printer. Check the cable for damage, and then make sure that it is an Ethernet cable and not a phone cable. It should have eight visible wires on the connector.
Reconnect the cable to a different Ethernet or LAN port on the router, and then connect the other end to the printer Ethernet port . Check the Ethernet port lights. The green light is steady and the orange activity light blinks when the connection is established.
Some printers might not connect immediately. Wait for the Ethernet icon or the Wi-Fi icon and light to turn solid on the printer control panel.
USB printer setup
Disconnect the USB cable from the computer and the printer, and then inspect the cable for damage. Replace the cable if necessary.
Do not use a cable that is longer than 3 m (9 ft 10 in).
Connect the printer USB cable directly into a USB port on the computer. Do not use a USB hub.
Download HP Print and Scan Doctor, and then follow the prompts to install and run the troubleshooter.
If your printer is not found, click My product is not listed, and then follow the instructions to troubleshoot the connection.
Search Windows for and open Add or remove programs, and then look for your HP printer name in the list of programs.
If you find your printer, click the printer name, and then click Uninstall.
If you do not find your printer, search for and open Printers & scanners, click your printer, and then click Remove device.
After uninstalling the driver, go to HP Smart - Microsoft Store (in English) to install the HP Smart app and set up the printer.
Troubleshoot issues if your printer is not found while attempting to add a printer using a built-in driver.
These steps are for a printer setup through Windows Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners. The printer that I want isn't listed message might also display.
Perform the following tasks in the order given. Return to the setup after each task to see if the issue is resolved.
Restart the printer and the computer to clear possible error conditions.
Check for issues and review requirements for your setup type.
Wi-Fi printer setup
Move the printer within eight meters (26 feet) of the router or range extender, and then check the connection status. If the wireless light is solid and blue, the printer is connected to the network. If the light is off or flashing, the printer is not connected to the network.
Make sure the computer is connected to the correct network. If the wireless icon shows a weak signal , move closer to the router or range extender until a strong signal displays . Walls, metal bookcases, and electronics that emit radio signals can weaken the wireless signal.
A printer connection cannot be established over public or guest networks that allow guest logins used in schools, hotels, or coffee shops.
Make sure the printer is not connected to a computer with a USB cable. A USB connection can block Wi-Fi setup.
Open a website to confirm the internet service is working. If page load time is slow or intermittent, restart the router. If necessary, contact your internet service provider to check if the service is down.
Wired network (Ethernet) printer setup
Disconnect the Ethernet cable from the router and the printer. Check the cable for damage, and then make sure that it is an Ethernet cable and not a phone cable. It should have eight visible wires on the connector.
Reconnect the cable to a different Ethernet or LAN port on the router, and then connect the other end to the printer Ethernet port . Check the Ethernet port lights. The green light is steady and the orange activity light blinks when the connection is established.
Some printers might not connect immediately. Wait for the Ethernet icon or the Wi-Fi icon and light to turn solid on the printer control panel.
USB printer setup
Disconnect the USB cable from the computer and the printer, and then inspect the cable for damage. Replace the cable if necessary.
Do not use a cable that is longer than 3 m (9 ft 10 in).
Connect the printer USB cable directly into a USB port on the computer. Do not use a USB hub.
Click Add a printer or scanner > The printer that I want isn't listed for options to manually add the printer.
Go to HP printer setup (Windows built-in driver) for more information.
Search Windows for and open Windows Update, and then click Check for updates to ensure the latest printer software is available.
Update the printer firmware: Go to HP Software and Driver Downloads to search for and download firmware updates for your printer.
Search Windows for and open Troubleshoot settings, and then click Additional troubleshooters > Printer to run the troubleshooting tool.
Troubleshoot issues if your printer is not found or available in macOS.
Troubleshoot issues if your printer is not found on your Mac. A No printers are available message might also display.
Perform the following tasks in the order given. Use the printer after each task to see if the issue is resolved.
Restart the printer and Mac to clear possible error conditions.
Check for issues and review requirements for your connection type.
Wi-Fi printer setup
Move the printer within 8 m (26 ft) of the router or range extender, and then check the Wireless light is solid blue. If the light is off or flashing, the printer is not connected to the network.
Make sure the computer is connected to the correct network. If the wireless icon shows a weak signal , move closer to the router or range extender until a strong signal displays . Walls, metal bookcases, and electronics that emit radio signals can weaken the wireless signal.
A printer connection cannot be established over public or guest networks that require a guest login or confirmation of use, such as networks used in schools, hotels, or coffee shops.
Disconnect any printer USB cables to prevent Wi-Fi setup issues.
Open a website to confirm the internet service is working. If page load time is slow or intermittent, restart the router. If necessary, contact your internet service provider to check if the service is down.
Wired network (Ethernet) printer setup
Disconnect the Ethernet cable from the router and the printer. Check the cable for damage, and then make sure that it is an Ethernet cable and not a phone cable. It should have eight visible wires on the connector.
Reconnect the cable to a different Ethernet or LAN port on the router, and then connect the other end to the printer Ethernet port . Check the Ethernet port lights. The green light is steady and the orange activity light blinks when the connection is established.
Some printers might not connect immediately. Wait for the Ethernet icon or the Wi-Fi icon and light to turn solid on the printer control panel.
USB printer setup
Disconnect the USB cable from the computer and the printer, and then inspect the cable for damage. Replace the cable if necessary.
Do not use a cable that is longer than 3 m (9 ft 10 in).
Connect the printer USB cable directly into a USB port on the computer. Do not use a USB hub.
Check for software updates: Click the Spotlight icon , and then search for and open Software Update, and then check for and install any available updates.
Make sure the printer firmware is up to date. Go to HP Software and Driver Downloads, search for your printer model, and then download any new firmware updates.
Reset the Mac printing system:
Click the Spotlight icon , and then search for and open Printers & Scanners.
Right-click or click-control the printer name, and then select Reset printing system > Reset to remove the printer and its settings.
Restart the printer, and then wait for the printer to reconnect to the Mac.
Click Add Printer, Scanner, or Fax or the Add button , select the name of your printer in the list, and then click Add.
Troubleshoot issues if your printer is not found in HP Easy Start.
Perform the following tasks in the order given. Use the printer after each task to see if the issue is resolved.
Restart the printer and Mac to clear possible error conditions.
Check for issues and review requirements for your connection type.
Wi-Fi printer setup
Move the printer within 8 m (26 ft) of the router or range extender, and then check the Wireless light is solid blue. If the light is off or flashing, the printer is not connected to the network.
Make sure the computer is connected to the correct network. If the wireless icon shows a weak signal , move closer to the router or range extender until a strong signal displays . Walls, metal bookcases, and electronics that emit radio signals can weaken the wireless signal.
A printer connection cannot be established over public or guest networks that require a guest login or confirmation of use, such as networks used in schools, hotels, or coffee shops.
Disconnect any printer USB cables to prevent Wi-Fi setup issues.
Open a website to confirm the internet service is working. If page load time is slow or intermittent, restart the router. If necessary, contact your internet service provider to check if the service is down.
Wired network (Ethernet) printer setup
Disconnect the Ethernet cable from the router and the printer. Check the cable for damage, and then make sure that it is an Ethernet cable and not a phone cable. It should have eight visible wires on the connector.
Reconnect the cable to a different Ethernet or LAN port on the router, and then connect the other end to the printer Ethernet port . Check the Ethernet port lights. The green light is steady and the orange activity light blinks when the connection is established.
Some printers might not connect immediately. Wait for the Ethernet icon or the Wi-Fi icon and light to turn solid on the printer control panel.
USB printer setup
Disconnect the USB cable from the computer and the printer, and then inspect the cable for damage. Replace the cable if necessary.
Do not use a cable that is longer than 3 m (9 ft 10 in).
Connect the printer USB cable directly into a USB port on the computer. Do not use a USB hub.
Reset the Mac printing system:
Use Spotlight to search for and open Printers & Scanners.
Right-click or click-control the printer name, and then select Reset printing system > Reset to remove the printer and its settings.
Restart the printer, and then wait for the printer to reconnect to the Mac.
Click Add Printer, Scanner, or Fax or the Add button , select the name of your printer in the list, and then click Add.
Download and open HP Easy Start from 123.hp.com/setup, and then click Uninstall HP Software from the HP Easy Start drop-down menu.
Download and open the HP Smart app from HP Smart - Mac App Store (in English), and then follow the prompts to set up the printer.
Troubleshoot issues if your printer is not found on an Android mobile device.
A This printer isn't available right now message might also display.
Perform the following tasks in the order given. Try to complete the setup after each task to see if the issue is resolved.
Download and install the HP Print Service Plugin, open the item you want to print, and then select your printer to complete the setup.
Restart the printer and the mobile device to clear possible error conditions.
On your mobile device, open the list of available networks.
If the network you are connected to is not yours, disconnect from the network and reconnect to your normal Wi-Fi network. Do not connect to the printer Wi-Fi signal DIRECT-xx-HP [your printer model name].
A printer connection cannot be established over public or guest networks that allow guest logins used in schools, hotels, or coffee shops.
If the network status is not connected, connect to your network, and then check the status again. A check mark or connected status displays next to the network name when connected.
Move the printer and the mobile device within eight meters (26 feet) of the router or range extender, and then check the connection status.
Printer connection: If the wireless light or icon is solid and blue, the printer is connected to the network. If it is off or flashing, the printer is not connected to the network.
Mobile device connection: Check the network signal strength. If the wireless icon shows a weak signal status , move closer to the router or range extender until a strong signal displays . Walls, metal bookcases, and electronics that emit radio signals can weaken the wireless signal.
Place the printer within range of the Wi-Fi router signal, and then use the Wireless Setup Wizard or Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) to the connect printer to the internet.
Printers with a touchscreen control panel: One the control panel, open the Setup, Network, or Wireless Settings menu, select Wireless Setup Wizard, and then follow the prompts to connect the printer.
Printers without a touchscreen control panel: Press and hold the Wi-Fi button for 5 seconds until the light starts flashing. Within 2 minutes, press and hold the WPS button on your router until the connection process begins. The Wi-Fi light is sold blue when it successfully connects to the internet.
HP DeskJet 6000, 6400, ENVY 6000, 6400, and Tango printers: Press and hold the Wi-Fi and Power buttons on the back of the printer for 3 seconds until the Edge or Wireless light starts flashing. Within 2 minutes, press and hold the WPS button on your router until the connection process begins. The Edge or Wireless light is sold blue when it successfully connects to the internet.
From the System Apps list, select Print Spooler or Storage > Print Spooler, and then tap Clear Data or Force Stop.
Go to HP Printers - 'Printer isn't available' error (Android) for more detailed information.
Troubleshoot issues if your printer is not found on an iPhone or iPad.
A No AirPrint Printers Found message might also display.
Perform the following tasks in the order given. Try to complete the setup after each task to see if the issue is resolved.
Restart the printer and the mobile device to clear possible error conditions.
On your mobile device, open the list of available networks.
If the network you are connected to is not yours, disconnect from the network and reconnect to your normal Wi-Fi network. Do not connect to the printer Wi-Fi signal DIRECT-xx-HP [your printer model name].
A printer connection cannot be established over public or guest networks that allow guest logins used in schools, hotels, or coffee shops.
If the network status is not connected, connect to your network, and then check the status again. A check mark or connected status displays next to the network name when connected.
Move the printer and the mobile device within eight meters (26 feet) of the router or range extender, and then check the connection status.
Printer connection: If the wireless light or icon is solid and blue, the printer is connected to the network. If it is off or flashing, the printer is not connected to the network.
Mobile device connection: Check the network signal strength. If the wireless icon shows a weak signal status , move closer to the router or range extender until a strong signal displays . Walls, metal bookcases, and electronics that emit radio signals can weaken the wireless signal.
Place the printer within range of the Wi-Fi router signal, and then use the Wireless Setup Wizard or Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) to the connect printer to the internet.
Printers with a touchscreen control panel: One the control panel, open the Setup, Network, or Wireless Settings menu, select Wireless Setup Wizard, and then follow the prompts to connect the printer.
Printers without a touchscreen control panel: Press and hold the Wi-Fi button for 5 seconds until the light starts flashing. Within 2 minutes, press and hold the WPS button on your router until the connection process begins. The Wi-Fi light is sold blue when it successfully connects to the internet.
HP DeskJet 6000, 6400, ENVY 6000, 6400, and Tango printers: Press and hold the Wi-Fi and Power buttons on the back of the printer for 3 seconds until the Edge or Wireless light starts flashing. Within 2 minutes, press and hold the WPS button on your router until the connection process begins. The Edge or Wireless light is sold blue when it successfully connects to the internet.
Open the Advanced Settings (EWS) in the HP Smart app or type the printer IP address into a web browser address bar. In the Network settings, make sure the AirPrint status is On.
Troubleshoot issues if your printer is not found with a Chromebook using the built-in driver.
These steps are for a printer setup through Settings > Advanced > Printing in ChromeOS.
Perform the following tasks in the order given. Return to the setup after each task to see if the issue is resolved.
Restart the printer and the computer to clear possible error conditions.
Check for issues and review requirements for your setup type.
Wi-Fi printer setup
Move the printer within eight meters (26 feet) of the router or range extender, and then check the connection status. If the wireless light is solid and blue, the printer is connected to the network. If the light is off or flashing, the printer is not connected to the network.
Make sure the computer is connected to the correct network. If the wireless icon shows a weak signal , move closer to the router or range extender until a strong signal displays . Walls, metal bookcases, and electronics that emit radio signals can weaken the wireless signal.
A printer connection cannot be established over public or guest networks that allow guest logins used in schools, hotels, or coffee shops.
Make sure the printer is not connected to a computer with a USB cable. A USB connection can block Wi-Fi setup.
Open a website to confirm the internet service is working. If page load time is slow or intermittent, restart the router. If necessary, contact your internet service provider to check if the service is down.
Wired network (Ethernet) printer setup
Disconnect the Ethernet cable from the router and the printer. Check the cable for damage, and then make sure that it is an Ethernet cable and not a phone cable. It should have eight visible wires on the connector.
Reconnect the cable to a different Ethernet or LAN port on the router, and then connect the other end to the printer Ethernet port . Check the Ethernet port lights. The green light is steady and the orange activity light blinks when the connection is established.
Some printers might not connect immediately. Wait for the Ethernet icon or the Wi-Fi icon and light to turn solid on the printer control panel.
USB printer setup
Disconnect the USB cable from the computer and the printer, and then inspect the cable for damage. Replace the cable if necessary.
Do not use a cable that is longer than 3 m (9 ft 10 in).
Connect the printer USB cable directly into a USB port on the computer. Do not use a USB hub.
If the printer is not listed, click Add Manually, and then follow the instructions to manually add the printer.
For more information, go to Chromebook Help - Set up your printer (in English).
On the Chromebook, turn Wi-Fi off and then on.