To set up a wireless printer without the CD, you need an AirPrint-enabled printer connected to the same Wi‑Fi network as your iPhone or a mobile device with the manufacturer’s dedicated app. This approach lets you complete a wireless printer setup and mobile printing directly from your phone, bypassing the need for any disc or computer.
What you need to set up a wireless printer without the cd
You will need an AirPrint-enabled printer that is already connected to your Wi‑Fi network, a stable Wi‑Fi network with its credentials (network name and password), and an iPhone on the same network as the printer. Alternatively, you can use a mobile device with the printer manufacturer’s app, such as HP Smart, Epson iPrint, Canon PRINT, or Brother iPrint&Scan.
How to connect using AirPrint on iPhone
- Ensure the printer is connected to your Wi‑Fi network and that your iPhone is on the same network. If the printer is not yet on Wi‑Fi, you can use the WPS setup method: press the WPS button on your router, then press the WPS button on your printer within two minutes to connect automatically. Alternatively, use the printer's control panel to manually connect: go to Wireless Setup or Network Settings, select your network from the list, and enter the Wi‑Fi password.
- Open the app from which you want to print (for example, Photos, Safari, or Mail).
- Tap the app’s share or action icon (often a square with an arrow pointing up).
- Tap Print.
- Tap No Printer Selected, then choose your AirPrint-enabled printer from the list.
- Set the number of copies or page range if needed.
- Tap Print in the upper-right corner.
AirPrint does not require any additional drivers or software, and it works with Wi‑Fi or wired network connections, though the iPhone and printer must be on the same Wi‑Fi network for standard wireless printing.
How to set up using the HP Smart app
- Turn on Wi‑Fi on your mobile device and allow location services when prompted so the app can detect the printer. As an alternative to CD-based installation, you can use a USB cable for wireless direct setup: temporarily connect the printer to your computer with a USB cable, and the HP Smart software will guide you through configuring the printer's Wi‑Fi connection.
- Open the HP Smart app and tap Get Started under Set up a new printer.
- If prompted for a connection type, choose WiFi or Ethernet Cable, then tap Continue.
- Prepare the printer for the connection as instructed on screen, then tap Continue.
- Find your printer in the list, tap the printer name or Set Up, and follow the on-screen prompts to finish the setup.
Using the manufacturer’s mobile app simplifies the setup process and provides additional features like ink level monitoring and supplies reordering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I set up a wireless printer without the CD?
Yes, you can set up a wireless printer without the CD by using your printer's control panel to connect to Wi‑Fi, using the WPS button method, or using the manufacturer's mobile app like HP Smart.
What if I don't know my printer's IP address?
You can print a network configuration page directly from the printer's control panel or settings menu; this page lists the IP address and other network details.
Can I use a USB cable to set up a wireless printer without the CD?
Are there any software or driver downloads required for setting up a wireless printer without the CD?
Yes, if you are not using AirPrint, you may need to download the latest drivers or the manufacturer's app from their official website to complete the setup and enable full printing functionality.
Does iPhone need an app to print?
No, Apple documents AirPrint printing directly from supported apps without needing a separate app.
Can iPhone print without drivers?
Yes, AirPrint does not require additional drivers or software.
Can AirPrint use wired connections?
Yes, AirPrint works with Wi‑Fi or wired network connections, but the iPhone and printer must still be on the same Wi‑Fi network for standard wireless printing.
Can a printer connected by USB to an AirPort Base Station or AirPort Time Capsule use AirPrint?
No, Apple states that USB-connected devices on an AirPort Base Station or AirPort Time Capsule cannot use AirPrint.
