When your HP printer is connected to Wi-Fi but your computer cannot find it, resolving the issue involves a systematic approach to troubleshoot and correct potential connectivity or configuration problems. This guide will walk you through detailed steps to diagnose and fix the issue effectively.

We have described below, how to resolve this issue

Check the printer setup process:

1. Verify Wi-Fi Connection

Firstly, ensure that your HP printer is indeed connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your computer. Often, printers can inadvertently connect to a nearby network with a similar name. Access the printer’s control panel or settings menu to check its Wi-Fi connection status and network name (SSID).

2. Restart Devices

Restart both your HP printer and your computer. This simple step can often resolve temporary connectivity issues by resetting the network configurations on both devices.

3. Check Wi-Fi Signal Strength

Confirm that both the printer and the computer are within the range of your Wi-Fi signal. Weak signals can lead to intermittent connectivity problems. You may consider moving the printer closer to the Wi-Fi router temporarily to check if signal strength is a factor.

4. Printer Network Configuration Page

Print a network configuration page directly from your HP printer. This page typically includes important details such as the printer’s IP address, network status, and current Wi-Fi network it is connected to. Use this information to ensure the printer is on the correct network and has a valid IP address.

5. Update Printer Firmware

Check if there are any firmware updates available for your HP printer. Outdated firmware can sometimes cause connectivity issues. Visit the HP support website, enter your printer model, and download the latest firmware version if available.

6. Update Printer Drivers

Ensure that your computer has the latest printer drivers installed. Outdated or incompatible drivers can prevent your computer from recognizing the printer. Visit the HP support website, search for your printer model, and download the latest drivers suitable for your operating system.

7. Firewall or Security Software

Firewalls and security software on your computer can sometimes block communication with network devices like printers. Temporarily disable firewall or security software and check if the printer is detected. If this resolves the issue, adjust the firewall settings to allow communication with the printer.

8. Add Printer Manually

If your computer still cannot find the printer automatically, try adding the printer manually using its IP address.

Windows:  Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers > Add a printer > Add a network, wireless or Bluetooth printer > The printer that I want isn’t listed > Select a shared printer by name and type in the printer's IP address.

Mac:  Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners > Click the "+" button to add a printer or scanner > Select the IP tab > Enter the printer's IP address and other details.

9. Restart Print Spooler Service (Windows)

Sometimes restarting the print spooler service on your Windows computer can resolve printer detection issues.

1.  Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.

2.  Locate "Print Spooler" in the list, right-click it, and select "Restart".

10. Factory Reset (Last Resort)

As a last resort, consider performing a factory reset on your HP printer. This will reset all settings, including Wi-Fi configurations, back to factory defaults. Refer to your printer’s manual or the manufacturer's website for instructions specific to your model.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve most common printing problems with your HP printer on Windows 11. Remember to stay patient and methodical as you troubleshoot, and don't hesitate to seek help if you need it. With a little perseverance, you'll have your printer back up and running in no time!

Conclusion

By following these detailed steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the issue of your HP printer being connected to Wi-Fi but not being detected by your computer. Each step addresses common connectivity issues and ensures that both your printer and computer are properly configured to communicate over the network. If problems persist, consulting HP support or a technical expert may provide further insights or solutions tailored to your specific setup.