How to Hide HP Printer on Network: 5 Easy Steps!

In a world brimming with connected devices, maintaining control over your network can feel like a constant battle. One common frustration is the presence of unwanted or unused printers, cluttering your network list and potentially posing security risks. This article will guide you through the process of how to hide HP printer on network, empowering you to regain control and optimize your network efficiency.

Understanding the Need to Hide

Before diving into the practical steps, let’s understand the reasons why you might want to hide an HP printer on your network:

• Security: An exposed printer can be a potential entry point for hackers. Hiding it reduces the attack surface and enhances your network’s security posture.
• Cleanliness: A cluttered network list can be overwhelming and confusing. Hiding unused printers streamlines your network view, making it easier to manage.
• Resource Management: An inactive printer consumes network resources unnecessarily. By hiding it, you free up bandwidth and improve overall network performance.

Method 1: Disabling Printer Sharing

The most straightforward method to hide an HP printer is to disable its sharing feature. This approach effectively makes the printer invisible to other devices on your network.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Access the Printer Properties: Open the Control Panel on your computer and navigate to “Devices and Printers.” Right-click on the HP printer you want to hide and select “Printer properties.”
2. Sharing Tab: Click on the “Sharing” tab within the printer properties window.
3. Disable Sharing: Uncheck the box next to “Share this printer.”
4. Apply Changes: Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.

Method 2: Removing the Printer from the Network

If you want a more permanent solution, you can completely remove the HP printer from your network. This approach ensures that the printer is no longer accessible to any device on the network.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Access the Network Settings: Open the Control Panel on your computer and navigate to “Network and Sharing Center.”
2. View Devices and Printers: Click on “View devices and printers” to access the list of devices connected to your network.
3. Remove the Printer: Right-click on the HP printer you want to remove and select “Remove device.”
4. Confirm Removal: Confirm the removal by clicking “Yes” in the pop-up window.

Method 3: Utilizing Advanced Network Settings

For more granular control and advanced configuration, you can delve into your network’s advanced settings. This method allows you to selectively control printer access and visibility.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Access Network Settings: Open the Control Panel on your computer and navigate to “Network and Sharing Center.”
2. Advanced Sharing Settings: Click on “Change advanced sharing settings” to access the advanced network settings.
3. Private Network Settings: Select “Private” from the network profile list and click on “All Networks” to apply the changes to all network profiles.
4. Disable File and Printer Sharing: Uncheck the box next to “Turn on network discovery” and “Turn on file and printer sharing”.
5. Apply Changes: Click “Save Changes” to implement the settings.

Method 4: Utilizing Firewall Rules

Firewalls act as a security barrier between your network and the outside world. By creating specific firewall rules, you can selectively block access to your HP printer.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Access Windows Firewall: Open the Control Panel and navigate to “Windows Firewall.”
2. Advanced Settings: Click on “Advanced settings” to access the firewall’s advanced configuration.
3. Inbound Rules: Click on “Inbound Rules” and then select “New Rule.”
4. Rule Type: Choose “Custom” as the rule type.
5. Protocol and Ports: Select the protocol and port used by the HP printer (usually TCP/IP and port 9100).
6. Action: Choose “Block the connection” as the action.
7. Profile: Select the network profile where you want to block the printer (usually “Private” or “Public”).
8. Name: Give the rule a descriptive name for easy identification.
9. Finish: Click “Finish” to create the firewall rule.

Method 5: Using Network Management Software

For more comprehensive network control, consider using dedicated network management software. These tools provide advanced features like printer management, network monitoring, and security controls.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Choose a Network Management Software: Select a suitable network management software based on your needs and budget. Popular options include SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor, ManageEngine OpManager, and PRTG Network Monitor.
2. Install and Configure: Install the software on your computer and configure it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Manage Printers: Use the software’s printer management features to hide or disable specific printers on your network.

The Final Word: Maintaining Network Harmony

By implementing these methods, you can effectively hide your HP printer on your network, achieving a cleaner, more secure, and efficient network environment. Remember to choose the method that best suits your needs and comfort level.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q1: Can I hide a printer on a network without affecting its functionality for the computer it’s connected to?
A1: Yes, you can hide a printer on a network without affecting its functionality for the computer it’s connected to. This can be achieved by disabling sharing for the printer while keeping it connected to the computer. The printer will still be accessible locally on the computer, but not visible to other devices on the network.
Q2: Is it possible to hide a printer from specific devices on the network?
A2: Yes, you can selectively control access to a printer by using advanced network settings or firewall rules. For example, you can create firewall rules to block access to the printer from specific IP addresses.
Q3: Can I hide a printer from the internet?
A3: While you can hide a printer from your local network, it’s generally not possible to fully hide it from the internet. Printers often connect to internet-based services for firmware updates or cloud printing features.
Q4: What are the security risks associated with an exposed printer?
A4: An exposed printer can be a target for hackers who may attempt to gain access to your network through vulnerabilities in the printer’s firmware or software. They can potentially use the printer as a stepping stone to access other devices on your network.
Q5: How often should I review my network settings and printer access?
A5: It’s a good practice to review your network settings and printer access periodically, especially after installing new software or devices. This helps ensure that your network security remains robust and that only authorized devices have access to your printers.