Troubleshoot scanner not connecting to computer, WiFi, Windows, Mac, scan software not detecting printer, and scanner not found on network. Step-by-step computer-focused help for scanner not connecting to computer, scanner not connecting to WiFi, scanner not connecting to Windows computer, scanner not connecting to Mac, and scan software not detecting printer.

Before you begin: Keep your printer, computer, router, WiFi name, and WiFi password nearby. If the printer display shows a paper jam, cartridge, power, or hardware error, resolve that physical issue first.

Common Causes

• Scan software is not installed or is outdated.
• The printer and computer are on different networks.
• The scanner permissions are blocked on the computer.
• The printer was added as a basic print-only device.
• The scanner is offline or not detected by the software.
• Firewall or VPN blocks scanner discovery.
• HP Smart app cannot communicate with the scanner.
• The printer driver needs to be reinstalled.

Step-by-Step Methods to Fix the Issue

1. Restart printer and computer
   Restart both devices to refresh scanner discovery and software communication.
2. Check network connection
   Make sure the scanner/printer and computer are connected to the same WiFi router.
3. Open scan software
   Use the installed printer software or HP Smart app to check whether the scanner is detected.
4. Check permissions
   On Mac and Windows, allow printer or scan software permissions if prompted.
5. Remove and re-add the printer
   Delete the printer/scanner entry and add it again so the computer can detect scan features.
6. Install full feature software
   Use the full printer software package if the basic driver does not include scanning features.
7. Disable VPN during scan setup
   VPN connections can hide local network scanners from the computer.
8. Run a test scan
   Try scanning a single page from the computer software to confirm the connection.

Other Issues Covered by This Troubleshooting Article

Scanner not connecting to computer	Scanner not connecting to WiFi
Scanner not connecting to Windows computer	Scanner not connecting to Mac
Scanner not detected by computer	Scan software not detecting printer
Printer software not detecting scanner	Scanner connection issue on Windows
Scanner connection issue on Mac	Scanner not found on network

When the Printer Connects to WiFi But Still Will Not Print

If the printer connects to the router but your computer still cannot print, the wireless connection may be working while the computer setup is incomplete. Check whether the printer appears as offline, whether the wrong printer is selected as default, or whether a previous USB or network printer entry is still installed.

Clearing the print queue, reinstalling the driver, and adding the printer again by network discovery can often fix a printer connected to WiFi but not printing from Windows or Mac.

FAQ: Scanner Not Connecting to Computer

Why is my scanner not connecting to my computer?

The scanner may not be detected because of missing scan software, network mismatch, blocked permissions, or driver issues.

Why can I print but not scan?

Printing may work with a basic driver, while scanning often requires full printer software or additional permissions.

Why is my scanner not found on WiFi?

The scanner and computer may be on different networks, a VPN may be active, or router discovery may be blocked.

How do I connect my scanner to Mac?

Add the printer/scanner in Printers & Scanners and use compatible scan software or Image Capture if supported.

Can scanner connection issues be fixed remotely?

Many scan software, WiFi, driver, Windows, Mac, and HP Smart scanner detection issues can be reviewed remotely.