If your printer is not connecting to the network, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take. Depending on the type of printer, the methods required to connect to a network may vary, and you may need assistance from your printer manufacturer or internet service provider (ISP) to complete the connection process. In this article, we provide some general tips on how to fix network connectivity issues for most printers.
1. Check Your Printer’s Network Connection
The first step is to check that the network connection to your printer is working properly. Depending on the printer model, this may involve connecting an Ethernet cable directly from the printer to the router, or setting up a wireless connection. If you are using an Ethernet connection, check the connection from the router to the printer, as well as the printer’s Ethernet indicator to make sure it is connected to the correct port. If you are using a wireless connection, search for available networks on your printer’s control panel, then select the correct network name and provide the password, if necessary.
2. Update Your Printer’s Firmware
If your printer is still not connecting to the network, try updating its firmware. Most printer manufactures make updates available online, which may include improvements to network connectivity and performance. Check your printer’s support website for the latest firmware update, and follow the instructions to install it.
If your printer does not have an on-board web interface for firmware updates, you may need to download the firmware to a USB drive, then plug the drive into your printer’s USB port.
3. Restart Your Printer
If your printer is still not connecting to the network after updating the firmware, restarting the printer may resolve the issue. To do this, turn the printer off, then unplug it from the power source. Wait a few minutes, then plug it back in and turn it on.
4. Reset Your Printer’s Network Settings
Another troubleshooting step is to reset your printer’s network settings. This will clear any existing network information stored in your printer, such as the network name (SSID), password, and IP address. To reset your printer’s network settings, access its control panel and select the “Reset” or “Network Reset” option.
5. Check Your Router’s Settings
If your printer is still not connecting to the network after following the above steps, you may need to check your router’s settings. Make sure the DHCP server is enabled, as this allows the router to automatically assign an IP address to your printer. You should also check that the router’s wireless network name (SSID) and password are correct, as these will be needed to configure the wireless connection on your printer.
6. Contact Your Printer Manufacturer
If none of the above troubleshooting steps have resolved the issue, contact your printer manufacturer. They may be able to offer further advice on how to fix the issue or advise you on possible alternatives.
Printers can be tricky devices to get connected to a network, but with patience and following the right steps, it is usually possible to resolve most network connectivity problems. If you are unable to fix your printer’s network connection on your own, don’t hesitate to seek help from your printer manufacturer or internet service provider.