How To Connect Printer to Wi-Fi: Simple Instructions

Connecting your printer to Wi-Fi can vary a bit depending on the brand and model. 

Here’s a straightforward method that works for most printers, plus other options if needed:

Step 1: Get Ready for the Setup

Before you start, make sure you have a few things in place:

• Turn on the printer by plugging it in and pressing the power button.
• Find your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password. This information is often printed on a sticker on your router; if not, check your router’s settings.
• Place the printer close to your router for a strong Wi-Fi signal during setup (you can move it later).

Step 2: Wi-Fi Connection via Printer Control Panel

Most modern printers have a built-in display screen and a menu that lets you configure settings directly. Here’s how to connect through the printer’s control panel:

1. Access the Wi-Fi Setup Menu: On the printer’s screen, go to Settings, Network Settings, or Wi-Fi Setup. For most printers, select Wi-Fi Setup Wizard (or similar) to scan for nearby networks. For Brother printers, you may need to go to WLAN under Network Settings before selecting Setup Wizard.
2. Select Your Wi-Fi Network: Choose your network name (SSID) from the list. If it doesn’t appear, move the printer closer to the router or make sure Wi-Fi is enabled on the printer.
3. Enter Your Wi-Fi Password: Use the on-screen keyboard to enter your password carefully (it’s case-sensitive). Confirm to proceed.
4. Wait for Confirmation: The printer should show a message indicating it’s connected. If there’s an error, double-check the password and try again.

Brother HL L2350DW WiFi Setup

Step 3: Add the Printer to Your Computer or Device

Once your printer is connected to Wi-Fi, the next step is to make sure your computer or device can recognize it. Here’s how:

• On Windows: Open Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners. Click Add a printer or scanner, select your printer from the list, and click Add device.
• On a Mac: Open System Preferences > Printers & Scanners. Click the + button, select your printer from the list, and click Add.

• For iPhone/iPad (AirPrint) – Connect your iPhone/iPad to the same Wi-Fi network as the printer, open what you want to print, tap the Share button, select Print, choose your printer, and tap Print.
• For Android – Download the manufacturer’s app from the Google Play Store (e.g., HP Smart, Canon PRINT). Open the app, add your printer, and follow the instructions to start printing.

Alternative Ways To Connect Your Printer to Wi-Fi

If your printer doesn’t have a display screen or if the control panel setup didn’t work, try one of these alternative methods:

1. Using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)

• If your printer and router both have WPS capabilities, this can be a quick way to connect without entering a password.
• Within 2 minutes, press the WPS button on your printer (or follow any specific instructions in your printer’s manual).
• The printer should automatically connect to your Wi-Fi network.

2. Using a Setup App on Your Smartphone or Computer

• Many brands offer mobile apps that make Wi-Fi setup easier, especially if your printer doesn’t have a display screen.
• HP Smart (for HP printers), Canon PRINT (for Canon), Epson iPrint (for Epson), and Brother iPrint&Scan (for Brother) are all free apps available on the App Store or Google Play.
• Download the app, open it, and follow the on-screen instructions to connect your printer to Wi-Fi.

How To Connect Canon ts3522 Printer to Wi-Fi

3. USB Cable Setup for Initial Connection

• Some printers allow you to connect to Wi-Fi by temporarily connecting them to your computer with a USB cable.
• Plug the printer into your computer using the USB cable, then open the printer’s setup software (downloadable from the manufacturer’s website if you don’t have it).
• The software will walk you through entering your Wi-Fi details to connect the printer.
• After the initial setup, you can disconnect the USB cable, and the printer should stay connected to Wi-Fi.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you’re having trouble connecting your printer, try these steps:

• Restart Everything – Turn off your printer, router, and computer or phone, then turn them back on. Restarting can often fix connection issues.
• Move the Printer Closer to the Router – A weak Wi-Fi signal can make it hard for the printer to connect. Try moving it closer.
• Check for Firmware Updates – Some printers need the latest firmware to connect properly. Check the manufacturer’s website for any updates.
• Re-enter Your Wi-Fi Details – Double-check your Wi-Fi password for any typos, as passwords are case-sensitive.
• Reset Network Settings on the Printer – If all else fails, reset the printer’s network settings and try setting it up again.

If you’re still having trouble, check your Wi-Fi frequency. Some printers only work on certain frequencies, like 2.4GHz. For example, many older printers can’t connect to 5GHz networks. 

If your router combines 2.4GHz and 5GHz under one network name (SSID), try separating them in your router’s settings and connect the printer to the 2.4GHz network. This has helped some users fix connection issues.