To set up the **HP DeskJet 4252e** printer, follow these main steps:

1. **Unboxing and hardware setup**
– Remove the printer from the packaging and all protective tape.
– Plug in the power cable at the back and turn on the printer. The power light will flash and then stabilize.
– Install the ink cartridges (HP67 black and tri-color): open the ink cartridge access door, remove the orange protective seals from the cartridges, and insert them into the corresponding slots (black on the right, color on the left). Close the door.
– Load paper into the input tray.
– The printer may run an initial alignment process automatically[1].

2. **Wireless network setup using the HP Smart app**
– On your Windows 11 laptop or smartphone, connect to your Wi-Fi network.
– Download and open the HP Smart app (available for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS).
– Add a new printer in the app. The printer should appear if it is powered on and in wireless setup mode (power and wireless indicators flashing).
– Follow prompts in the app to connect the printer to your Wi-Fi network. You may need to press and hold the cancel and wireless buttons on the printer for 3 seconds to enable wireless setup mode.
– Once connected, the HP Smart app will show estimated ink levels and allow printing, scanning, and copying[2][5].

3. **Alternative USB setup**
– Connect the printer to your computer using a USB data cable (not included with the printer; purchase separately).
– Turn on the printer and connect the cable from the printer to your computer.
– Your operating system (Windows 11) should detect the printer automatically. If drivers are needed, download them from HP’s website or use the HP Smart app.
– Use Windows native scan app or HP Smart for scanning and printing over USB[3].

4. **Troubleshooting tips**
– Ensure ink cartridges are fully seated and protective tape removed.
– Power cycle the printer (turn off, unplug for 60 seconds, plug back in, turn on).
– Clean cartridge contacts gently with lint-free cloth if ink recognition issues occur.
– Check for firmware updates in HP Smart app or HP website.
– Use HP Smart app diagnostics and cleaning cycles to maintain print quality[4].

You can also find detailed video walkthroughs on YouTube demonstrating the full unboxing, installation of ink cartridges, wireless setup with smartphone or laptop, alignment, and test printing steps[1][2][3].

This covers both wireless and USB setups for the HP DeskJet 4252e printer to get it fully operational.