Modern office tasks require high mobility, and the ability to print documents directly from a laptop or smartphone without unnecessary wires is becoming standard. HP Color Laser MFP 179fnw It's a compact solution that fits perfectly into the network infrastructure of a small office or home workspace. However, initial setup of a wireless connection often presents difficulties for users accustomed to cabled interfaces.
Integrating this MFP into a local network requires careful attention to detail, as the stable operation of all peripheral equipment depends on the correct parameter input. In this article, we'll examine all available configuration methods in detail, paying particular attention to security protocols and the specifics of interaction with routers from various manufacturers. You'll learn how to avoid common mistakes and ensure a reliable connection for printing.
Before proceeding with the software, ensure the hardware is physically ready for operation. Make sure the MFP is plugged in, the cartridge is installed, and the paper tray is loaded. Only after the initialization cycle is complete and the device is in standby mode can you begin adjusting the network settings.
Preparing to set up a wireless connection
The first step is to gather the necessary information about your home or office network. To successfully connect, you'll need to know the exact network name (SSID) and Wi-Fi password. Please note that most printer models, including the SSID series, require a Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password. Color Laser 179, operate mainly in the range 2.4 GHz, so make sure your router broadcasts a signal in this standard.
⚠️ Attention: If your router uses Smart Connect, which combines 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies under a single name, the printer may fail to find the network or may have an unstable connection. Temporarily separate the networks in your router settings or create a guest network for the 2.4 GHz band only.
It's also recommended to place the printer close to the router during setup to prevent interference from walls or other electronic devices. The signal strength must be strong to ensure a smooth handshake between devices. If you plan to use a static IP address, reserve it in advance in the router interface.
It's important to check the status of the indicators on the control panel. A blinking wireless light usually indicates that the Wi-Fi module is active, but a connection to the access point has not yet been established. A lit light indicates a successful connection, while an off light indicates that the wireless module may be disabled by software.
WPS method: quick connection without entering a password
The easiest way to set up wireless connection One way to secure a router is to use WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup), if your router supports it. This method automatically transfers security settings, eliminating the need to manually enter a complex password. First, make sure the WPS button on your router is accessible and functional.
On the printer control panel HP Color Laser MFP 179fnw Find the button with an antenna or a wireless network icon. Press and hold it for a few seconds until the indicator light starts flashing. Immediately afterward, within two minutes, press the WPS button on the router. The devices will automatically find each other and exchange encryption keys.
- 📡 Press the WPS button on the router to activate search mode.
- 🖨️ Hold down the wireless button on the printer until the indicator light starts blinking.
- ✅ Wait until the Wi-Fi indicator on the MFP lights up steadily.
- 🔒 Make sure your router's encryption type is compatible (usually WPA2-PSK).
If automatic connection fails, the printer's indicator light may blink at a different frequency or go out, indicating an error. In this case, check to see if the connection timeout (usually 2 minutes) has expired and try again. Some internet service providers block the WPS function on their devices for security reasons, so this method may not be available.
Setup via USB cable and software
The most reliable and universal method, ensuring proper installation of all drivers, is to use the included USB cable. This allows the HP software to automatically read your Wi-Fi network settings and transfer them to the printer's memory. First, download the full driver and utility package from the official support website, selecting the appropriate operating system.
Run the setup file and follow the on-screen instructions. When the program asks you to select a connection type, select wireless connectionAt a certain point, the installer will ask you to connect a USB cable between your computer and the MFP. This is where the network settings are configured: the program takes your PC's current Wi-Fi settings and transmits them to the printer.
⚠️ Attention: Don't connect the USB cable until the setup program explicitly asks for it. Connecting it too early may trigger Direct Print mode, preventing the setup wizard from switching the device to network configuration mode.
After the data transfer is successful, the program will prompt you to disconnect the USB cable. From this point on, the printer HP Color Laser MFP 179fnw The printer must be accessible to all devices on the same network segment. Check the device's status in the operating system's printer list; if there are no warning signs next to the icon, the integration was successful.
☑️ Pre-installation check
Manual configuration via control panel
If using a computer is not possible, you can configure the network directly through the device's menu. Interface HP Color Laser MFP 179fnw Allows you to manually select the desired network from the list of available networks and enter the password. To do this, click the menu button (gear icon or list) on the control panel.
Using the navigation arrow buttons, navigate to the section Network (Network) or Wireless (Wireless) Select an item Wireless Settings (Wireless Network Settings) and further Wireless Setup Wizard (Setup Wizard). The printer will begin searching for available access points within range.
When the list of networks appears on the screen, find your router's name (SSID) and click OK to select it. If your network isn't listed, check to see if the network name (SSID Broadcast) is hidden in the router settings. If the SSID is hidden, you'll have to choose the option to manually enter the network name.
Menu → Network → Wireless → Wireless Setup Wizard → [Select SSID] → Enter PasswordAfter selecting the network, a password entry screen will appear. Use the navigation buttons to select characters and numbers. Be especially careful when entering the password, as it is case-sensitive. After entering, confirm the action, and the printer will attempt to connect.
What to do if the printer does not see the network?
Make sure there's a clear line of sight between the printer and the router. Check if there's a MAC address filter on the router that's blocking new devices. Also, try temporarily disabling "Client Isolation" in the router settings.
Using the HP Smart app for mobile devices
For smartphone and tablet users, the most convenient way to set up is through an app. HP SmartIt's available for iOS and Android and allows for initial configuration without a PC. Make sure your mobile phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network you plan to connect the printer to.
Launch the app and tap the "Add a new printer" button (usually a plus sign). The app will begin searching for devices on the network. If the printer isn't yet configured, the app will prompt you to enter setup mode. Follow the voice or text prompts on your smartphone to complete the process.
This method is especially useful because the HP Smart app also allows you to manage scanning and faxing directly from your phone once setup is complete. Wi-Fi Direct can be activated through the same application, allowing printing even without internet access if the router is temporarily unavailable.
| Parameter | Description | Default value |
|---|---|---|
| Opening hours | Network connection type | Infrastructure (Router) |
| Security protocol | Data encryption method | WPA2-Personal |
| IP address | The device's network address | Dynamic (DHCP) |
| Frequency range | Operating frequency of the module | 2.4 GHz (802.11b/g/n) |
Diagnostics and problem solving
Even with proper setup, situations may arise when the printer HP Color Laser MFP 179fnw The computer loses connection to the router or displays an error. Often, the problem stems from a change in the device's IP address, if the router doesn't reserve a static address for the MFP. In this case, the computer may "lose" the printer after rebooting the router.
Another common cause of problems is a router firmware update, which can change security settings or the broadcast channel. If your printer stops printing over the network, try resetting the network settings of the MFP itself. To do this, go to the network menu and select the option to restore the network module to factory settings.
- 🔄 Restart your router and printer by unplugging them from the power outlet for 30 seconds.
- 📡 Check if your Wi-Fi password or encryption type has changed.
- 🔍 Make sure your computer and printer have up-to-date drivers.
- 🛡️ Check your firewall settings, as they may be blocking printing ports.
If all else fails, it might be a good idea to temporarily connect the device via USB and run diagnostics using HP Printer Assistant. This utility can automatically detect and fix many network conflicts and update the printer firmware to the latest version, which often fixes known connectivity issues.
Can this printer be connected to a 5GHz network?
Model HP Color Laser MFP 179fnw The device is equipped with a Wi-Fi module supporting the 802.11b/g/n standard, which operates exclusively in the 2.4 GHz frequency range. Connecting to 5 GHz networks is technically impossible. If your router broadcasts a single network with a common name for both bands, try separating them into different SSIDs in the router settings or force the device to switch to 2.4 GHz.
What should I do if I forgot my Wi-Fi password during setup?
If you don't remember the password, you can find it on a computer that's already connected to the network. In Windows, this can be done through the Network and Sharing Center: Wireless Network Properties → Security tab → Show characters. The password is also often found on a sticker on the bottom or back of the router if you didn't change it during initial setup.
How do I reset my printer's network settings to factory defaults?
To reset, go to the settings menu (gear button), select Network (Network) → Clear Settings (Clear settings) or Restore Network DefaultsAfter confirming the action, the printer will reboot the network module, and you will need to go through the Wi-Fi connection procedure again.