HP DeskJet 2855e

How to Connect HP DeskJet 2855e to Chromebook and Wi-Fi

Connecting your HP DeskJet 2855e all-in-one printer to a Chromebook via Wi-Fi opens up seamless printing, scanning, and copying from your lightweight Google-powered device. This compact inkjet printer is designed for easy wireless integration, and Chrome OS makes the process straightforward without needing traditional drivers. Whether you’re setting it up for the first time or troubleshooting a reconnection after moving locations, follow these step-by-step instructions. You’ll need a stable Wi-Fi network, your Chromebook, and about 10-15 minutes.

Prerequisites Before You Start

  • Ensure your HP DeskJet 2855e is powered on and has fresh ink cartridges installed (it comes with starter cartridges, but check levels via the printer’s control panel).
  • Confirm your Chromebook is connected to the same Wi-Fi network you want the printer to join.
  • Have your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password ready.
  • Download the free HP Smart app from the Google Play Store on your Chromebook—it’s the key to guided setup and ongoing management.

Step 1: Prepare the Printer for Wireless Setup

  1. Power on the printer: Plug in the power cord and press the power button. Wait for the status light to turn solid blue, indicating it’s ready.
  2. Enter setup mode: Locate the Wireless button (it looks like a radio tower icon) on the printer’s control panel. Press and hold it for 5 seconds until the Wireless light starts blinking blue. This puts the printer in a temporary setup network mode.
  3. Connect temporarily to the printer’s network: On your Chromebook, click the Wi-Fi icon in the bottom-right corner of the screen. Look for a network named something like “HP-Setup-[model number]- [random code]” (e.g., HP-Setup-2855e-ABC123). Select it and connect—no password needed. This links your Chromebook directly to the printer for initial configuration.

If you don’t see the HP setup network, double-check that the Wireless light is blinking and restart the process.

Step 2: Install the HP Smart App and Configure Wi-Fi

  1. Open the Google Play Store: On your Chromebook, launch the Play Store app from the launcher (the circle icon with your profile picture).
  2. Search and install HP Smart: Type “HP Smart” in the search bar, select the official app by HP Inc., and hit Install. Once downloaded, open it.
  3. Start the setup wizard: In HP Smart, tap the “+” icon to add a new printer. It should detect your DeskJet 2855e automatically since you’re connected to its temporary network. If prompted, allow location access for better discovery.
  4. Join your home Wi-Fi: Follow the on-screen prompts to select your home Wi-Fi network from the list. Enter the password when asked. The app will transfer the credentials to the printer, and the Wireless light will stop blinking once connected (solid blue means success).
  5. Switch back to your network: Return to your Chromebook’s Wi-Fi settings and reconnect to your regular home network. The printer should now be on the same one.

Pro tip: If the app struggles to find the printer, ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your Chromebook (Settings > Connected devices > Bluetooth) for hybrid discovery.

Step 3: Add the Printer to Your Chromebook

  1. Access printing settings: Click the time in the bottom-right corner, then the gear icon for Settings.
  2. Navigate to printers: Scroll to “Advanced” > “Printing” > “Printers.” Click “Add printer” at the bottom.
  3. Select and save: Your HP DeskJet 2855e should appear in the “Available printers” list. Click it, then “Add.” Chrome OS will use its built-in support—no extra downloads required.
  4. Test the connection: Open a document or webpage, press Ctrl+P (or Cmd+P on some models), and select your new printer. Print a test page to confirm everything’s working.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Printer not detected? Restart both devices, ensure they’re on the same Wi-Fi band (2.4GHz is best for printers—check your router settings), and try the setup mode again. For stubborn cases, reset the printer’s network settings: Hold the Wireless and Cancel buttons for 5 seconds until the lights flash.
  • Connection drops after setup? This often happens if the printer was previously linked to another network. Re-run the HP Smart setup and verify your router’s firmware is up to date.
  • Slow or no printing? Clear any print queues in Settings > Printing > Printers, and check ink levels in the HP Smart app. Avoid public Wi-Fi for setup—stick to private networks.
  • USB fallback option: If Wi-Fi won’t cooperate, connect via USB cable (not included—buy a standard USB-A to USB-B). Plug in, go to Settings > Printing > Add printer, and select the USB device. This works for basic printing but skips wireless perks.

Final Thoughts

With these steps, your HP DeskJet 2855e will be humming along with your Chromebook, handling everything from quick homework prints to family photos. The HP Smart app also lets you monitor ink (and subscribe to Instant Ink for auto-deliveries if you’re low-maintenance). If issues persist, visit HP’s support site for model-specific videos or chat with their team. Happy printing—may your pages always come out crisp and ink-efficient!