HP Jetdirect External Print Server for USB Printers - Network Ready

In this review the HP Jetdirect External Print Server (J6035A) is assessed as a practical, no-nonsense solution for turning a USB printer into a networked device. The bottom line: it is best for small offices and workgroups that need a simple, hardware-based way to share a USB printer over Ethernet without relying on a host PC. The review highlights that the embedded web server and broad protocol support make remote setup and administration straightforward, while the device's one-year limited warranty offers basic assurance for business use.

Key Features

• External print server: Converts a USB-only printer into a network device so multiple users can print without a dedicated host computer.
• USB to network connection: Connects directly to your printer via USB, preserving native printer functionality while adding network access.
• RJ-45 Ethernet port: Supports 10Base-T and 100Base-T network links for reliable wired connectivity in an office environment.
• Embedded web-server: Allows remote management and configuration through a standard web browser, reducing the need for specialized tools.
• Broad OS support: Works with legacy Windows platforms and Mac OS v8.6 and later, making it compatible with older print environments.
• Warranty coverage: Includes a 1-year limited warranty for basic manufacturer support and peace of mind.

Who It's For

The Jetdirect 175x is aimed at small offices, home offices, and departments that have a USB printer and want to share it across a wired network without adding print servers in each workstation. IT administrators who prefer a hardware solution with an embedded web-server for remote setup will appreciate the straightforward deployment.

It is less suitable for environments that require modern driverless printing standards or wireless network support; organizations that need cloud-native printing, Wi-Fi, or extensive mobile printing features should look for a more current print server or a network-capable printer.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Simple hardware-based way to share a USB printer on a 10/100 Ethernet network.
• Embedded web server and compatibility with HP Web Jetadmin make remote configuration practical.
• Supports multiple networking protocols including TCP/IP and LPD for mixed environments.
• Includes a 1-year limited warranty for basic support.

Cons

• Limited to wired Ethernet and USB printers, so there is no built-in Wi-Fi or modern mobile printing support.
• Designed for older operating systems, so integration in very new OS ecosystems may require extra configuration.

Specifications

Product type	External print server
Printer interface	USB connection to supported printers
Network interface	RJ-45 10Base-T and 100Base-T Ethernet
Management	Embedded web-server and HP Web Jetadmin support
Supported operating systems	Windows 95, 98, 2000, Me, NT 4.0, XP; Mac OS v8.6 and later
Protocols	TCP/IP (peer-to-peer and client/server), IPX/SPX, Apple EtherTalk, LPD
Warranty	1-year limited warranty

Our Verdict

The HP Jetdirect External Print Server is a solid, value-oriented choice for offices that need to share a USB printer over a wired network without complexity. Its embedded web-server and protocol breadth make it practical for mixed-network environments, though sites that need wireless or modern mobile printing should consider newer alternatives. For straightforward network printing on a budget, it delivers good functionality for the price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this device share any USB printer?
The device connects to supported USB printers; compatibility is best with printers designed for host-based USB connections and common printer languages via network protocols.

Does it support wireless networks?
No, this print server provides a wired RJ-45 Ethernet connection only and does not include Wi-Fi functionality.

How is the device managed?
It includes an embedded web-server for remote configuration and can be managed with HP Web Jetadmin for larger deployments.