HP Printer Cannot Scan to Network Folder – How to Fix it

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If your HP printer cannot scan to a network folder, the issue is typically related to folder permissions, incorrect path settings, or network configuration problems. Follow these steps to resolve the issue effectively.

Verify Network and Folder Setup

Make Sure the Printer is Connected to the Same Network
  • The printer and the computer (or server) hosting the network folder must be on the same local network.
  • Use the printer’s control panel to confirm the connection and IP address.

Create a Shared Folder on the Computer
  • On your PC or Mac, create a folder for scans.
  • Right-click the folder > Properties > Sharing tab > Share.
  • Assign access to “Everyone” or a specific user with read/write permissions.

Set NTFS Permissions
  • Under the Security tab in folder properties, make sure the user has “Full control” or at least “Modify” and “Write” permissions.

Configure the Network Folder Path

Use UNC Path Format
  • Use the format: \\ComputerName\SharedFolderName
  • Avoid mapped drives or drive letters like Z:\Scans.

Test the Path
  • Open File Explorer on another device and try accessing the folder using the UNC path to confirm it works.

Enter Correct Credentials in the Printer

Use a Valid Network Username and Password
  • In the printer’s Scan to Network Folder setup, enter the credentials of a user who has permission to access the folder.
  • On Windows, format it as ComputerName\Username.

Save and Test Configuration
  • Most HP printers allow you to Test the configuration.
  • If the test fails, review the username, password, and folder path again.

Enable SMB Protocol on the Computer

Enable SMBv1 or SMBv2 (If Required)
  • Older HP printers may require SMBv1, which is disabled by default on newer Windows versions.
  • Go to Control Panel > Programs > Turn Windows features on or off > Enable SMB 1.0/CIFS File Sharing Support.
  • Restart the computer.

Note: SMBv1 is outdated and less secure. If possible, update your printer firmware to support SMBv2 or SMBv3.

Configure Firewall and Antivirus

Allow File and Printer Sharing
  • Ensure that your firewall allows File and Printer Sharing.
  • On Windows, go to Control Panel > Windows Defender Firewall > Allow an app or feature.

Add Exceptions for HP Software
  • Temporarily disable the firewall or antivirus to test if it’s blocking the scan-to-folder function.

Update Printer Firmware and Software

Update Firmware
  • Download the latest firmware for your printer model from the HP support website.
  • Install it using a USB connection or over the network.

Use HP Software Utility
  • Use HP Embedded Web Server (EWS) or HP Scan to Network Folder Setup Wizard from the HP software package to configure the settings correctly.

Use Static IP for Stability

Assign a Static IP to the Printer
  • Prevents IP changes that might break the scan-to-folder path.
  • Set a static IP in the printer’s Network Settings, and use it when configuring the network folder destination.

Reset and Reconfigure as a Last Step

Delete and Recreate the Network Folder Profile
  • Sometimes re-adding the profile from scratch resolves path or permission issues.
  • Access the printer’s control panel or Embedded Web Server to remove the old profile and add a new one.

Contact HP Support If All Else Fails
  • If none of the steps solve the issue, contact HP with your printer model, firmware version, and operating system for advanced troubleshooting.