PDR1 - I had considered hard wiring the printer to the router via Ethernet, but though that it would only cover half the possible problems. Thinking about it a bit more I suppose if the other connected devices can get online without any issues, the issue is between the router & printer, so this would probably be a cure.
The Samsung seems to have lost its tongue & is completely incommunicado through WiFi or USB, so I'll see what options there are with ethernet.
G0ULI - last time I touched an HP, it was a Deskjet 660C, 20+ years ago before wireless or USB (great little printer), HP may be a wise choice right enough & I imagine that connectivity / interface are considerably better than what I have.
Thanks both.