Can’t Connect Your HP LaserJet Pro M404N to WiFi? Here’s the Solution!

Connecting your HP LaserJet Pro M404n to your Wi-Fi network is a breeze, opening a world of wireless printing convenience. No more tangled cables or limited placement restrictions. This guide will walk you through the simple steps, ensuring a seamless connection and maximizing your printer’s potential.

Preparing for the Connection

Before diving into the connection process, make sure you have the following ready:

• Your HP LaserJet Pro M404n: Ensure the printer is powered on and ready.
• Your Wi-Fi Network Name (SSID) and Password: You’ll need this information to connect the printer to your network.
• A Wireless Router: Your Wi-Fi network must be active and operational.

Connecting Your HP LaserJet Pro M404n to Wi-Fi

There are two primary methods to connect your HP LaserJet Pro M404n to your Wi-Fi network:
1. Using the Printer Control Panel:

• Access the Wireless Menu: On the printer control panel, navigate to the “Wireless” or “Network” settings. This is usually accessed through a dedicated button or by pressing the “Menu” button and scrolling through the options.
• Select “Connect to a Wireless Network”: Look for an option to connect to a wireless network or a similar phrase.
• Enter Your Wi-Fi Network Information: You will be prompted to enter your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password. Use the printer’s on-screen keyboard or the keypad to type the information accurately.
• Confirm and Connect: After entering the credentials, select “OK” or “Connect” to initiate the connection process.
• Wait for Connection: The printer will attempt to connect to your Wi-Fi network. This may take a few moments.

2. Using the HP Smart App:

• Download and Install the HP Smart App: Download the HP Smart app from the Apple App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
• Open the App and Add a New Printer: Launch the HP Smart app and follow the on-screen prompts to add a new printer.
• Select Your HP LaserJet Pro M404n: The app will scan for nearby printers. Choose your HP LaserJet Pro M404n from the list.
• Connect to Wi-Fi: The app will guide you through connecting your printer to your Wi-Fi network. You may need to enter your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password.
• Confirm Connection: The app will indicate when the connection is successful.

Verifying the Connection

After following the steps above, it’s essential to verify that your HP LaserJet Pro M404n is connected to your Wi-Fi network:

• Check the Printer’s Control Panel: Look for a Wi-Fi icon or a network status indicator on the printer’s control panel. A solid light or a specific symbol typically indicates a successful connection.
• Print a Network Configuration Report: Many HP printers offer a network configuration report that provides detailed information about the connected network. This can be accessed through the printer’s menu or using the HP Smart app.
• Try Printing: Attempt to print a document from your computer or mobile device. If the print job goes through successfully, the Wi-Fi connection is working.

Troubleshooting Connection Issues

If you encounter difficulties connecting your HP LaserJet Pro M404n to Wi-Fi, here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Check Your Wi-Fi Network: Ensure your Wi-Fi network is active and operational. Check the router’s status lights and try restarting the router if necessary.
• Verify Network Credentials: Double-check that you have entered the correct Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password.
• Restart the Printer: Turn off the printer, wait for a few seconds, and turn it back on.
• Update the Printer Firmware: Outdated firmware can cause connectivity issues. Check for firmware updates on the HP website or through the HP Smart app.
• Check for Interference: Wireless signals can be affected by other electronic devices. Try moving the printer closer to the router or away from potential interference sources.
• Contact HP Support: If the issue persists, contact HP support for assistance.

Maintaining a Stable Connection

Once your HP LaserJet Pro M404n is connected to Wi-Fi, it’s essential to maintain a stable connection. Here are some tips:

• Keep the Router Updated: Ensure your router’s firmware is up-to-date for optimal performance.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Network: Too many devices connected to the same Wi-Fi network can slow down performance. Consider using a dedicated network for your printer if possible.
• Position the Printer Wisely: Place the printer within range of the router and away from potential interference sources.
• Regularly Check the Connection: Periodically verify that the printer is still connected to the Wi-Fi network.

The Freedom of Wireless Printing

Connecting your HP LaserJet Pro M404n to Wi-Fi unlocks a world of wireless printing convenience. You can now print from anywhere in your home or office, without the hassle of cables. Enjoy seamless printing, effortless document sharing, and the flexibility to position your printer wherever it best suits your needs.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I connect my HP LaserJet Pro M404n to multiple Wi-Fi networks?
A: No, your HP LaserJet Pro M404n can only be connected to one Wi-Fi network at a time.
Q: What if I forget my Wi-Fi password?
A: You’ll need to access your router’s settings to retrieve your Wi-Fi password. The process for accessing router settings varies depending on the router brand and model.
Q: Can I connect my HP LaserJet Pro M404n to a 5GHz Wi-Fi network?
A: Yes, the HP LaserJet Pro M404n supports 5GHz Wi-Fi networks. However, ensure that your router also supports 5GHz.
Q: What are the benefits of connecting my printer to Wi-Fi?
A: Connecting your printer to Wi-Fi offers numerous benefits, including:

• Wireless Printing: Print from anywhere in your home or office without cables.
• Easy Sharing: Share the printer with multiple devices on the same network.
• Flexibility: Place the printer wherever it’s most convenient for you.
• Mobile Printing: Print documents and photos from your smartphone or tablet.

Q: My printer is connected to Wi-Fi, but I can’t print. What should I do?
A: There could be several reasons why you can’t print even with a Wi-Fi connection. Here are some troubleshooting steps:

• Check the printer’s status: Ensure that the printer is not in an error state or paused.
• Verify the printer driver: Make sure you have the latest printer driver installed on your computer.
• Restart the printer and computer: Sometimes a simple restart can resolve connectivity issues.
• Check the print queue: Clear any pending print jobs from the print queue.
• Reinstall the printer driver: Uninstall and reinstall the printer driver.
• Contact HP support: If the issue persists, contact HP support for assistance.