HP printer owners on Windows 11 frequently encounter issues when setting up Wi-Fi connectivity via USB using the HP Smart app. Whether it's failing during initial setup or prompting to disconnect USB mid-print, our tested fixes below resolve these common problems reliably.
Users typically see this issue in two scenarios: the wireless setup via USB fails entirely during new printer installation, or the app demands USB disconnection when printing even after setup. These troubleshooting steps, drawn from extensive hands-on experience with HP devices, address both.
Follow these proven methods in order:
Before diving in, restart your PC, printer, and router, then test again.
When wireless setup fails, first verify network stability. Ensure your Windows 11 PC and printer connect to the same Wi-Fi network. Also, enable Bluetooth on your PC, as HP Smart requires it for pairing.
For successful wireless printing via HP Smart, both devices must share the same Wi-Fi. If your PC uses Ethernet, switch to Wi-Fi. On the printer, confirm the Wireless icon light is solid—indicating active wireless functionality.
For touch-screen HP models, navigate to Network Setup or Settings and select Restore. For Inkjet, Laser NS, LaserJet, or Neverstop printers, press Wireless and Cancel (or Attention) buttons together until the power light flashes, then wait for the Wireless light to confirm reset.
If unresolved, remove the existing printer from HP Smart, confirm stable networks, then follow on-screen prompts to set up Wi-Fi via USB anew.
Your printer needs built-in wireless capabilities and must join the same network as your HP Smart device for seamless connection.
