HP Smart app: how to set up your HP printer on Wi-Fi

The HP Smart app is HP's free app for setting up a printer, and for printing and scanning from a phone, tablet or computer. This guide explains the general steps; screens can vary by printer and app version.

Before you start

• Unpack the printer, remove the protective tape and fit the ink or toner as shown in the setup leaflet.
• Load plain paper in the tray.
• Have your Wi-Fi name and password to hand. Your phone or computer should be on the network you want the printer to use.
• Keep the printer close to your router during setup.

Set up with the app

1. Download HP Smart from the App Store, Google Play or the Microsoft Store.
2. Open the app and sign in or create an HP account if asked.
3. Switch the printer on. Many new printers go into setup mode automatically, often shown by a flashing wireless light. Check your leaflet if not.
4. In the app choose Add printer or the plus sign, then pick your printer when it appears.
5. Follow the prompts to choose your Wi-Fi network and enter the password.
6. Print a test page when the app offers one.

The app may ask for Bluetooth or location permission. This is normally just so it can find the printer nearby.

If the printer is not found

• Check the printer's wireless light is flashing, meaning it is waiting for setup. If not, you may need to reset its network settings. Steps differ by model, so check the manual.
• Make sure your phone is not using mobile data only.
• Restart the printer, the router and the phone.
• Some printers only use 2.4GHz Wi-Fi. If your router combines 2.4GHz and 5GHz in one name, this can confuse setup.

A note on subscriptions

During setup you may be offered HP Instant Ink, an ink subscription. You do not have to accept it. See our guide on how it works so you can decide.

When to get more help

Get help if setup fails repeatedly, if the printer never appears, or if you are unsure which Wi-Fi network to choose. Do not open the printer to reach internal parts.