## Steps to Connect Your Printer to the Internet

Connecting your printer to the internet (Wi-Fi) enables wireless printing from any device on your network. The exact process varies slightly by brand and model, but follows a similar pattern.

**Main Connection Methods**

– **Using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup):** Press the WPS button on your router, then press the corresponding WPS or Wi-Fi button on your printer (sometimes you need to hold it for a few seconds). Within a minute or two, the printer will automatically connect to your Wi-Fi network[1][2][3].
– **Manual Setup via Printer Screen:** If your printer has a display and menu buttons, select the Wi-Fi or network option, choose your network (SSID), enter the password, and complete the setup wizard[1][4].
– **Via Printer Driver Software:** On some models, you can connect by running the printer’s driver software on your computer. The software will guide you through selecting your network and entering the password.
– **Ethernet (Direct Connection):** Some printers support connecting via Ethernet cable to your router. The printer will obtain an IP address from the router, and you may then manage wireless settings through a web interface[1].

**Brand-Specific Examples**

– **HP:** Turn on the printer, press the wireless button for about five seconds (or, for certain models, press the Wi-Fi and power buttons together). Then, press the WPS button on your router until the connection light stops flashing[3].
– **Epson:** Press the Home button on the printer, select Wi-Fi Setup, then Push Button Setup (WPS), and follow the on-screen instructions[3].
– **Canon:** Access the WLAN menu on the touchscreen, start setup, press the WPS button on your router, and confirm on the printer touchscreen when prompted[3].
– **Brother:** Press the WPS button on your router, then press and hold the Wi-Fi button on the printer for about five seconds[2].

**Verifying the Connection**

After setup, print a network configuration page from your printer to confirm it is connected and to view details like the IP address and signal strength[1]. If you encounter issues, consult your printer’s manual for troubleshooting.

**Direct Wireless Printing (Without Router)**

Some printers support “Wireless Direct” or similar modes, where the printer acts as its own wireless access point. Devices connect directly to the printer’s SSID (network name) for printing without an internet connection[2].

## Summary Table

| Method | Suitable For | Steps |
|———————–|————————————–|—————————————————————————————-|
| WPS Button | Most modern routers/printers | Press WPS on router, then on printer; automatic connection[1][2][3] |
| Manual Setup (Screen) | Printers with display & menu | Select network, enter password, complete wizard[1][4] |
| Driver Software | Printers with included software | Run setup on computer, follow on-screen prompts |
| Ethernet Cable | Printers with Ethernet port | Connect to router, use web interface for Wi-Fi setup if needed[1] |
| Wireless Direct | Mobile/device printing without Wi-Fi | Connect device to printer’s SSID, use for local printing[2] |

## Troubleshooting

– Ensure the printer is within range of your Wi-Fi network.
– Double-check your network password.
– Restart your printer and router if the connection fails.
– Refer to your printer’s manual or the manufacturer’s support site for model-specific instructions.

If you encounter persistent issues, contact your printer manufacturer’s support for assistance.