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WiFi Direct Printing Setup

A general setup guide for using WiFi Direct printing without relying on the standard wireless network. The exact WiFi Direct name and password vary by printer, so use your printer information report when following these steps.

Before You Start

  • Make sure WiFi Direct is enabled on the printer.
  • Have the printer information report available.
  • Confirm the user has the correct print app or printer driver installed if required.
  • Be ready to reconnect the device back to the normal Wi-Fi network after printing.

Step 1: Print or Locate the Printer Information Report

Start with your printer information report. This is where you can find the WiFi Direct details specific to the printer you are working with. Because these values are device-specific, do not use another printer's report as a reference.

Step 2: Identify the WiFi Direct Name and Password

On your printer information report, locate the WiFi Direct section. Note the WiFi Direct network name and the WiFi Direct password shown there. These are the credentials the user needs to connect directly to the printer.

Step 3: Connect the Device to the Printer

On the laptop, phone, or tablet, open the Wi-Fi settings and connect to the WiFi Direct network name listed on the printer information report. When prompted, enter the WiFi Direct password from that same report.

Step 4: Send a Test Print

Once the device is connected to the printer's WiFi Direct network, open a printable document or photo and send a test print. Confirm the printer responds normally before assuming the setup is complete.

Step 5: Reconnect to the Normal Network

After printing, reconnect the device back to the normal Wi-Fi network. WiFi Direct is useful for ad hoc printing, but users usually should not stay connected to the printer network longer than necessary.

Troubleshooting Notes

  • If the WiFi Direct name is not visible, confirm WiFi Direct is turned on at the printer.
  • If the password fails, verify you are using the values from that printer's own information report.
  • If printing still fails, check whether the device needs the vendor print app or driver package.
  • If the user loses internet access during testing, reconnect them to the standard wireless network after printing.