HP The Printer Cannot Print Until It Is Connected to the Internet – How to Fix it

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When your HP printer shows the message “The printer cannot print until it is connected to the internet,” it usually means the printer is enrolled in HP+ or HP Instant Ink, and internet connectivity is required to validate the subscription or service status.

Check the Printer’s Internet Connection

1. Verify Wi-Fi or Ethernet Connection
  • On the printer’s control panel, go to Network Settings or Wireless Settings.
  • Check the connection status. It should say Connected.
  • If not, reconnect to your Wi-Fi network by selecting it and entering the correct password.

2. Test the Connection
  • Print a Wireless Network Test Report from the printer’s menu.
  • Look for connection errors like “no network,” “authentication failed,” or “IP address not assigned.”

Restart Devices

3. Power Cycle Printer and Router
  • Turn off the printer.
  • Unplug your router for 30 seconds, then plug it back in.
  • Once the internet is restored, turn on the printer again.

4. Restart Your Computer or Mobile Device
  • If using the HP Smart app, restarting your device can refresh the connection.

Reconnect the Printer to HP Services

5. Sign in to HP Account
  • On the printer screen, go to HP Account > Sign In.
  • Enter your HP credentials.
  • This is required for HP+ or Instant Ink-enabled printers.

6. Re-enable Web Services
  • Go to Setup > Web Services or HP ePrint.
  • If Web Services are off, turn them back on.
  • Accept the Terms of Use and wait for the printer to connect.

Confirm the Printer is Not in Offline Mode

7. On Windows
  • Open Devices and Printers.
  • Right-click on your HP printer > See what’s printing.
  • Click Printer in the top menu and uncheck Use Printer Offline.

8. On macOS
  • Go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners.
  • Select your HP printer.
  • Make sure it is listed as Online.

Disable Internet Dependency (If Applicable)

9. Disable HP+ Requirement (Not Always Possible)
  • If you don’t want to rely on the internet, you may need to:
    • Cancel HP+ or Instant Ink (if allowed).
    • Factory reset the printer (note: some models will still require internet to function).
    • Use a non-HP account-linked printer model.

Update Firmware and Software

10. Update Printer Firmware
  • Use the HP Smart app or go to the Embedded Web Server (enter the printer’s IP in a browser).
  • Check for and install any available firmware updates.

Ensuring a stable internet connection and proper configuration of HP+ or Instant Ink services is essential for full functionality of enrolled HP printers.

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