The HP ENVY 5000 remains a popular choice for UK households due to its sleek profile and impressive photo printing capabilities. However, moving from unboxing to your first wireless print can sometimes be a challenge.
Whether you are setting up a new device or reconnecting after a change in your BT, Sky, or Virgin Media router, this guide follows the official 123.hp.com workflow to get you online quickly.
Before launching the software, ensure your hardware is ready for the "handshake":
Remove Packaging: Take off all blue tape and internal cardboard spacers. Check the ink access area and the paper tray.
Power Up: Plug the ENVY 5000 directly into a UK wall socket. Turn it on and select United Kingdom as your region on the touchscreen.
Install Cartridges: Open the ink door. Use the HP 304 setup cartridges provided in the box. Snap them into their slots until they click.
Load Paper: Slide out the paper tray, adjust the guides, and load plain A4 paper. The printer will print an Alignment Page—place this on the scanner glass and press "Scan" to calibrate the heads.
HP has centralised its installation process to make it as simple as possible:
Visit the Portal: Open your web browser and go to 123.hp.com.
Identify Your Model: Type "ENVY 5000" into the search bar.
Download HP Smart: The site will direct you to download the HP Smart app for Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android. This is the modern replacement for old driver discs.
Pairing Mode: Ensure your printer's Wi-Fi light is flashing. If it isn't, go to the printer's touchscreen: Setup > Network Setup > Restore Network Settings. This puts the printer in "Setup Mode" for 2 hours.
Open the HP Smart app on your laptop or smartphone.
Enable Bluetooth and Location Services (essential for the app to "find" the printer).
Click "Add Printer" or the "+" icon.
Select your HP ENVY 5000. Enter your home Wi-Fi password when prompted. The app will securely send these details to the printer.
The "Smart Setup" Bug: Some BT Smart Hubs have a feature called "Smart Setup" that can block printer discovery. If your setup fails, log into your router settings (192.168.1.254) and turn "Smart Setup" to OFF.
2.4GHz vs 5GHz: The ENVY 5000 series is a 2.4GHz device. If your router uses a "merged" network name, try moving the printer closer to the router for the initial setup to ensure a strong signal.
Yes. During the 123.hp.com setup, you will be invited to join the Instant Ink programme. This is highly recommended for UK users, as the printer automatically orders new 304 cartridges before you run out, often saving up to 70% on ink costs.
If your computer prompts you for a WPS PIN, look at the printer's touchscreen. A temporary 8-digit PIN will be displayed. You must enter this into your PC within 90 seconds.
Absolutely. You can complete the entire process using a smartphone. Just download the HP Smart app from the UK App Store or Google Play Store and follow the "Add Printer" prompts.
This is usually a communication break between the Mac and the router. Reset the printing system in System Settings > Printers & Scanners, then re-add the printer using the AirPrint driver for the most stable connection.
Top Tip: To maintain a stable connection, avoid placing your printer near large metal objects or microwaves, which can interfere with the Wi-Fi signal in typical UK homes.