Have your model and connection details ready
Check the full model name on the printer, including any letters after its number. Keep the setup sheet nearby and note whether you use Windows 11 or a Mac. For wireless setup, have your private Wi-Fi network name and password ready. For USB, check that you have a suitable printer cable and an available computer port.
If you are adding a printer managed by your workplace, ask the administrator for its approved setup method before changing its connection.
1. Prepare the printer before installing software
Follow the setup instructions for your exact model. Remove the shipping tape and packing inserts, including those inside accessible doors and trays. Close the doors before turning the printer on.
Load the recommended paper and install the supplied ink or toner as instructed. Some models guide these steps through the HP app; Smart Tank models can have separate tank and printhead instructions. Finish any alignment or initialization prompts before testing. Do not force a cartridge, carriage, or paper tray.
HP publishes model-specific instructions, including its DeskJet 2800/4900 setup guide and Smart Tank 580/590/5100 setup guide.
2. Choose Wi-Fi or a USB connection
- Wi-Fi: connect the printer to the same private network used by your computer. Follow the HP app or your model’s supported wireless setup method. Our HP printer Wi-Fi setup guide explains network selection and router changes.
- USB: use a direct computer connection where possible. If using HP’s installer, connect the cable when its instructions request it. Follow HP’s USB setup instructions for your operating system.
Choose one intended connection first so you can identify the correct printer entry when testing.
3. Get setup software from HP
Start at HP’s official setup portal and identify your printer. HP now uses the HP app, which replaces HP Smart. Availability varies by operating system; follow the download HP offers for your device rather than assuming that an older app name still applies.
For separate drivers or scanning software, use HP Software and Driver Downloads and match both the printer model and operating system. The available software and features vary by model. HP explains the choices in its printer software and driver guide.
4. Add the HP printer in Windows 11
Once the printer is connected and ready, check whether Windows already lists it. For a network printer, first confirm that the computer and printer use the same network.
- Open Start → Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners.
- If the printer is missing, choose Add device.
- Allow the search to finish, then add the entry that matches your printer.
- Complete any prompts and check Windows Update for available driver updates.
If Windows cannot find it, follow Microsoft’s printer installation guide. On an ARM-based PC, check that guide before retrying a manufacturer installer that failed.
5. Add the HP printer on a Mac
For an AirPrint-compatible HP printer on the same Wi-Fi network, macOS may make it available without a separate driver installation.
- Open Apple menu → System Settings → Printers & Scanners.
- If the printer is missing, select Add Printer, Scanner, or Fax.
- Select the matching printer and add it. Where available and supported, use AirPrint.
If your model does not support AirPrint, check HP for compatible software. See Apple’s printer setup guide. Menu labels can vary with macOS version.
6. Confirm setup with a test print
For a Windows test page, follow Microsoft’s test-page instructions. Keep the result so you can compare it with a print from your usual application.
On a Mac, open a short document, choose File → Print, select the intended printer, and print one page. Check that the page arrives at the right device and that the paper size is correct before sending a larger job.
If setup completes but printing does not
Read the exact message before repeating setup. A printer that cannot join Wi-Fi needs a connection check; a printer that is connected but has a waiting job needs a print-queue check. A paper or cartridge message should be addressed at the printer.
Use our HP printer offline guide for an offline status, or the printer not printing guide when jobs fail after connection. Record what happened after each change so you do not keep repeating the same step.
Get independent printer setup assistance
Instant Inks Services provides independent help with HP printer setup and connection questions. Visit HP Products Assistance with your model, operating system, connection type, and the exact message you see. These details help narrow the next step. For a manufacturer account, warranty, or hardware issue, use HP Support.
Instant Inks Services provides this independent assistance to customers in the United States only.
Common questions
Do I need HP Smart or the HP app?
HP is replacing HP Smart with the HP app. Use HP’s setup portal to find the current software offered for your printer and operating system; availability differs by device.
Can I set up an HP printer without Wi-Fi?
A supported USB connection can connect a printer directly to a computer. Check your exact model’s requirements and follow the USB setup instructions for Windows or Mac.
Does every HP printer need a downloaded Mac driver?
No. A compatible AirPrint printer can work with macOS without a separate printer driver. Models without AirPrint may need software supplied by HP.
Why should I print a test page after setup?
A small test confirms that the selected printer receives a job from that computer. If it fails, note the message and connection type before changing more settings.
Official references
For model-specific instructions and current operating-system guidance, use these manufacturer resources.