firewall issue I think
onthefence
Newbie

Prior to fios router install was able to print wireless from laptop.  Now can still print wireless but only if desktop is turned on.  Previously could print irregardless of desktop being turned on or off.  I think I am able to print with desktop turned on because network recognizes laptop and printer.  With desktop turned off laptop cannot talk to printer.  Think the router firewall keeps the laptop from talking to the printer directly.  Need help.

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Re: firewall issue I think
CharlesH
Specialist - Level 1

Is the printer plugged into the computer via USB? or is it plugged into the router via ethernet cable or wifi? If you have a wifi enabled printer, you would need to re-enter the ssid and wepkey just like you did with your laptop. If it was only plugged into your computer then what you are saying is false considering the printer has to reach the network someway...

For clarification, this has nothing to do with the firewall, since no data is leaving your network (aka out onto the internet).

-CharlesH

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Re: firewall issue I think
onthefence
Newbie

Charles.  Thanks for reply.  The printer is connected to desktop via usb. Appreciate hearing this is probably not a firewall issue.  Can you give advice on how to make laptop talk to printer with desktop turned off.  thanks.  glenn

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Re: firewall issue I think
BrianMcD
Specialist - Level 1

In order to access any shared device on your Desktop, including a Printer the desktop will need to be on.

You can purchase a Print Server which will plug into your network and allow the printer to be accessed by any PC (Desktop or Laptop) on the network.

What type of printer is it ?

Could the printer possibly have a wireless connection also ?

I have hooked up an Epson All in One that I hooked up both USB and Wireless.

If it is wireless then you will need to re-add the printer to your wireless network via either the front panel or some vendor supplied software.  The Network Name (SSID) and Passcode (WEP Key) are on a sticker that you wil find on the router.

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Re: firewall issue I think
onthefence
Newbie

Hi Brian,   The printer is a HP 4385 and I had a great wireless connection before the new router.  The printer is part of the network and is installed on both computers.  I think you are right that I have to add the ssid and wep somewhere.  Do I add the ssid and wep to the printer?  If yes I don't know how to do it.  Sorry, im kind of a newbie.  thanks much for your interest.  glenn

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Re: firewall issue I think
BrianMcD
Specialist - Level 1

I took a look at the setup and users manuals from HP for the C4385 All In One Printer:

http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/manualCategory?lc=en&dlc=en&cc=sg&lang=en&product=3651156&

I think that the easiest way would be to restore the printer to factory defaults and then run the Setup CD that came with the printer which will walk you thru setting it up wirelessly.  You will need the Network name (SSID) and Pass Code (WEEP Key ) from the sticker on the router.  You will need to run the CD from any PC or laptop that you want to print wirelessly with.

Restore network defaults
You can reset the network settings to what they were when you purchased the HP All-in-
One.
To restore network defaults
1. Press the Wireless button on the front of the HP All-in-One.
2. Press the button next to the icon on the display until Restore Network Defaults
is highlighted, and then press the button next to OK.
3. Confirm that you want to restore the network defaults.

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Re: firewall issue I think
onthefence
Newbie

Brian,  ill give it a shot.  Do I first have to delete/remove the printer from the laptop before using the install cd.

I'm guessing that this will not affect the printer relationship with the wired desktop. 

Do I restore the network defaults before reinstalling the printer on the laptop or is restoring the network defaults part of the install process?.   Or, is restoring network defaults something I can do before reinstalling the printer.                                     Thanks for being patient.  glenn

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Re: firewall issue I think
BrianMcD
Specialist - Level 1

I would:

  • Reset the printer to defaults
  • Remove the printer and software from the laptop
  • Run the HP Setup CD to reinstall software and printer to laptop

The restore to defaults looked like it was for the wireless side of the printer so it should not effect the USB Side that the desktop is using.

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Re: firewall issue I think
onthefence
Newbie

Brian, back in business.  Had to reinstall printer on laptop and go through the setup for wireless.  Thanks for all your help.  glenn

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Re: firewall issue I think
BrianMcD
Specialist - Level 1

Glenn,

Glad you got it working.  Remember to go in and flag as Solved.

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