To connect a printer to a new WiFi network, use the printer's own screen to open the wireless setup menu, pick the new network, and enter its password. If the printer has no screen, use the maker's mobile app or the WPS button on your router. Then update the printer on your Windows PC or Mac so it points to the new connection.
Why this happens
A printer stores one WiFi network at a time. When you change routers, change your network name or password, or switch internet providers, the saved network no longer matches, so the printer goes offline until you connect it to the new one.
Is this normal?
Yes. Any WiFi printer needs to be pointed at a new network whenever the network changes. It is a routine setup step, not a fault with the printer.
Does it cause any problems?
Until you reconnect it, the printer will show as offline and will not accept wireless jobs. There is no harm to the printer or your files, and USB printing still works if the printer has a cable port.
How to fix or check it
- On a printer with a touchscreen, open Settings or the Wireless menu, choose Wireless Setup Wizard, select your new network name, and type the password. Wait for the wireless light to go solid.
- On a printer without a screen, install the maker's app on your phone, such as HP Smart, Canon PRINT, Epson Smart Panel, or Brother iPrint and Scan, and follow its guided WiFi setup. This works on both Android and iPhone.
- If both the printer and router support WPS, press the WiFi or WPS button on the printer, then press WPS on the router within two minutes to link them automatically.
- On Windows, open Settings, Bluetooth and devices, Printers and scanners, and if the printer is missing choose Add device to detect it on the new network.
- On Mac, open System Settings, Printers and Scanners, click the plus button, and select the printer once it appears on the network.
- Print a test page to confirm the connection. If the printer still shows offline, restart the printer and the router, then try again.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to reinstall the printer on my computer after changing WiFi?
Usually you only need to make sure the computer sees the printer on the new network. If it stays offline, remove the printer and add it again so your PC picks up the printer's new network address.
How do I connect a printer with no screen to new WiFi?
Use the manufacturer's mobile app or the WPS button method. The app walks you through selecting the new network on your phone, and WPS links the printer and router at the press of a button.
Why does my printer go offline every time my internet changes?
The printer only remembers one network. Changing the network name, password, or router breaks the saved link, so you must run wireless setup again to store the new details.