hp printer not connecting to mac

If your HP printer is not connecting to your Mac, the key steps involve ensuring the printer and Mac are on the same network, resetting the Mac’s printing system, updating drivers and software, and manually adding the printer if needed.

To troubleshoot:

1. **Reset the Printing System**: Open **System Settings (or System Preferences) > Printers & Scanners**, right-click in the printer list, select **Reset Printing System**, then confirm and try adding the printer again[1].

2. **Confirm Network Connection**: Make sure your printer’s Wi-Fi is enabled and connected to the same wireless network as your Mac. You can check this on the printer’s control panel under **Setup > Network Setup > Wireless Settings**[1][2]. Both devices need to be on the same Wi-Fi network.

3. **Add Printer Manually**: In **Printers & Scanners**, click the **+** button to add a printer. If it doesn’t appear automatically, choose **Add Printer, Scanner, or Fax…** and use the **IP** option to enter the printer’s IP address (found in the printer’s network settings)[1].

4. **Download & Install Latest Drivers/Software**: Visit the HP Support website, download the latest drivers and software specifically for your printer model and macOS version, then install it[1][2].

5. **Restart Devices**: Restart both your Mac and printer to resolve temporary communication glitches[2][4].

6. **Check macOS and Printer Firmware Updates**: Ensure your Mac is running the latest version of macOS via **System Preferences > Software Update**. Also, update your printer’s firmware following HP’s official guidance[5].

7. **If OS Upgrade Caused Issues**: If you recently upgraded macOS and the printer stopped connecting, try deleting and reinstalling the HP Smart app or directly adding the printer via AirPrint in **Printers & Scanners** as AirPrint is often more stable on Macs[5].

These steps address common causes like network mismatches, outdated drivers, and system glitches reported by users experiencing HP printers not connecting to Macs across various macOS versions[1][2][3][4][5].