You don’t always need internet access to print from Snappic. This guide explains the difference between WiFi and WLAN, and how to use local networks or LTE routers to ensure your iPad and printer communicate effectively during events — even when offline.

Important Notes
WiFi vs. WLAN Explained
Recommended LTE Routers
Windows Mobile Hotspot (Workaround Option)
- Configure a Mobile Hotspot
- Troubleshooting Tips
- Best Practices for Reliability

Important Notes

You do not need internet for printing; you only need a local WiFi connection (WLAN).
Always ensure your printer and iPad are connected to the same network.
If you’re using a venue’s WiFi, check for firewall restrictions that may block communication.
Use recommended routers for best reliability during events.

WiFi vs. WLAN Explained

It’s possible to have a WiFi connection without actual internet access.

Here’s how it works:

WiFi refers to the wireless signal used to connect devices.
WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) allows local communication between devices — such as your iPad and printer — without requiring internet access.

This means your printer and iPad can still communicate through a local WiFi network even when there’s no active internet connection. Perfect for on-site printing during offline events.

Recommended LTE Routers

To maintain a stable local wireless network (WLAN) even if the internet drops, we recommend using one of the following LTE routers:

Huawei CPE2 Pro
NetGear NightHawk M1

These routers allow your iPad and printer to stay connected over WiFi, ensuring uninterrupted printing functionality.

Windows Mobile Hotspot (Workaround Option)

If you’re using a Windows 10 laptop for printing and encounter connectivity issues with the venue’s WiFi, you can create a local mobile hotspot as a temporary fix. Below are detailed instructions to configure a Windows PC hotspot and connect your iPad for seamless wireless printing in such scenarios:

⚠️ Note: This is not an official Snappic printing method, but a helpful workaround in certain cases.

Set Up a Mobile Hotspot on the Windows PC

Open Settings: On your Windows PC, press Start and navigate to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Hotspot.
Enable Mobile Hotspot: Toggle the Mobile hotspot button to On.
Choose Internet Connection: Select the internet connection you want to share (e.g., your Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection).
Verify Network Details: Confirm or optionally customize the network name (SSID) and password displayed in the hotspot settings.
Confirm Band Settings: To ensure compatibility, set the hotspot to broadcast at 2.4 GHz if the iPad cannot connect to mixed or 5 GHz bands.

Connect the iPad to the Windows Hotspot

Join the Network:
- On the iPad, open Settings > Wi-Fi.
- Find the hotspot network name (SSID) in the list of available Wi-Fi networks.
- Select the network and enter the password displayed on your Windows PC.
- Ensure that the iPad is connected to the hotspot network successfully.
Test the Connection:
- Launch the print server software on your Windows PC.
- Attempt printing a test document from the iPad to verify that both devices are communicating over the hotspot network.

This setup can bypass venue firewalls or restrictive WiFi networks that prevent communication between your printer and iPad.

Troubleshooting Tips

iPad Doesn’t See the Hotspot: Ensure the hotspot is broadcasting on a compatible band (preferably 2.4 GHz for older devices).
Printing Doesn’t Work: Verify both the iPad and the Windows PC are connected to the hotspot network and that the print server is correctly running on the PC.
Restricted Venue Wi-Fi: Using the local hotspot is ideal for avoiding venue Wi-Fi restrictions, ensuring reliable communication between the iPad and PC.

Best Practices for Reliable Connections

Test Before Use: If you’re setting up at an event, test the hotspot and printing setup prior to the event to ensure everything functions as expected.
Secure the Connection: Always use a strong password for your hotspot to prevent unauthorized access.
Optimize for Performance: Keep the Windows PC and iPad within close range for optimal connectivity and performance.