How do you install an HP Inkjet printer with a PC or laptop?
You've purchased an HP Inkjet printer and want to use it right away. You first have to install the printer and the HP printer software before you can print your photos and documents. We'll explain how to do this in 6 simple steps.
Prepare the printer
Install cartridges
Choose connection method
Download the software
HP EasyStart
Install software
Installation
Shut down the printer
Beforehand
The installation process takes approximately 30 minutes. What do you need?
An HP inkjet printer
A4 paper
Cartridges
A computer or laptop
A printer cable if you have a printer without WiFi.
Note: For this article, we use the HP Envy Photo 6234 All-in-one inkjet printer. The installation process of other HP inkjet printers is almost identical. If you encounter differences during installation, check the manual of your printer.
Prepare the printer
Before you begin installing your HP printer, your printer must be unpacked, connected, and free of any protective material. You can do this as follows:
Unpack your HP printer and remove all tape and protective material from the inside and outside of the printer. Check the manual to be sure you don't miss any material.
Plug in the power cord to power the printer. Turn the printer on and choose the correct language on the screen.
Add a stack of paper. Note: with some models you have to clamp the paper between 2 plastic sliders that you push inside.
The printer is now on, but isn't connected to a computer yet. In the following steps, we'll explain how to connect the printer.
Step 1. Install the cartridges
Installing the cartridges is fairly easy, but it has to be done properly. First, lift the top cover of the printer. On the Envy 6234, it's under the scanner unit. Use the handles on the side to lift it up. Remove the cartridges from the packaging and make sure you have the right color in the right place. The color is specified on the cartridge. Remove the (orange) sticker from the cartridge and gently push the cartridge into the holder until you hear a click. Keep in mind that the label must face upwards. Close the cover when you've inserted all the cartridges.
Step 2. Choose a connection method (you can also do this later)
Step 2.1: Connect to WiFi
Go to the WiFi icon on your printer and to 'Settings'. Select the Wireless Installation Wizard and follow the on-screen instructions. Connecting your printer can take up to a minute. You can also choose to connect the printer to WiFi later in the installation process via the downloaded software.
Your printer can print a short guide if it doesn't work after this step. To do this, press the WiFi icon and then "Settings". Select "Get started". The printer will print a short manual how to connect step by step.
Step 2.2: Connecting via a USB cable
If you prefer to connect the printer directly to your PC or laptop without using the internet, you can use a USB cable. Plug the standard, flat USB connector (USB-A) into your laptop or PC and plug the square USB connector (USB-B) into your printer.
Do you have a Windows device? First download the software as explained in step 3 before you connect the USB cable. Do you have an Apple device? It's the other way around. First connect the USB cable and then go to step 3.
Step 3. Download the software on your laptop or PC
You've connected your printer. Now, we'll ensure that your computer can control the printer. We'll install the EasyStart software from HP on your laptop or PC. Go to '123.hp.com' in your browser and enter the product name of your printer, such as 'ENVY 6234'. Download the HP Smart app or download the basic desktop software.
Stap 4: Open HP Easystart
Open the HP EasyStart file you've just downloaded from your download folder. If you have a printer that is compatible with HP Instant Ink, the program will ask you if you want to use your trial period. Enter your personal details to use one. Don't want a trial period or do you already have an Instant Ink subscription? Proceed to the next step.
Step 5: Install software
EasyStart will then ask you which software you want to install. Choose the option 'Full software and drivers' if you want additional software to solve problems in addition to the basic driver. Choose 'Basic drivers' if you only want the driver.
Step 6: Intallation
Your drivers are now installed on your computer. This can take a while, so feel free to grab a cup of coffee and put your feet on the desk. If you haven't connected the printer to WiFi, then look up your WiFi code or grab a network cable. After this step, the computer will connect to your printer.
Start printing
Your printer connects to WiFi and the installation is ready. You can start printing.
Shut down the printer
It's important to turn off the printer when you're finished printing. Do this by pressing the on/off button. If you leave the printer on or turn it off in some other way, the printhead won't be protected. Turn it off properly and the printer will keep the printhead in optimal condition. The print quality won't suffer and you'll prevent the printer from not being able to print documents at all.