Modern laser printers series HP Laser 100 These are compact and efficient devices that can significantly simplify document management in a small office or home workspace. However, to unlock their full potential, you need to untie them from a single computer via USB cable and enable wireless printing. This allows you to print from any laptop, tablet, or smartphone within range of your local network.
The process of activating the wireless module in models 107w or 107wa The device's design may seem unintuitive to users new to this line of equipment. Unlike older models, it often lacks a full LCD screen, and is controlled via LED indicators and a single function button. Understanding the logic behind these indicators is key to successfully integrating the device into your Wi-Fi infrastructure.
In this article, we'll cover all available connection methods in detail, from automatic setup via a mobile app to traditional driver installation from a disc or the manufacturer's website. You'll learn how to correctly interpret blinking indicators, how to use WPS technology for instant pairing, and what to do if your computer stops detecting your printer after changing your router.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before you start manipulating the software, make sure that your device is physically ready for work. Series HP Laser 100 includes models with Wi-Fi support (designated by the letter "w" in the name, for example, HP Laser 107w) and models without a wireless module. If your printer doesn't have a Wi-Fi icon or a wireless button on the body, you won't be able to add this feature programmatically.
Make sure the printer is plugged in and within range of your router's signal. The distance shouldn't exceed the standard 2.4 GHz range, as most budget laser printers don't support the 5 GHz frequency. Also, have a computer or smartphone ready for setup.
It's important to know your wireless network name (SSID) and password. If you're using a corporate network with authentication or a hidden SSID, standard quick setup methods may not work, and manual IP address configuration will be required.
- 📶 Make sure your router is broadcasting in the 2.4 GHz band (802.11b/g/n standard).
- 🔌 Check that the cartridge is inside the device and that there are no paper jams.
- 📱 Charge your mobile device or make sure your laptop is connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- 💾 Download the latest drivers from the official website if you don't have an installation disk.
⚠️ Attention: Some modern routers combine the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands under a single name by default. If the printer isn't seeing the network, try temporarily separating them in the router settings or creating a guest network for the 2.4 GHz band only.
WPS method: quick connection without entering a password
The easiest way to connect HP Laser 100 Series to the network - use technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method allows you to transfer network settings from your router to your printer with a simple press of a button, without having to manually enter a complex password on your computer keyboard.
First, find the WPS button on your router. It may be physical or software-based (in the router's web interface). On an HP printer, look for a button with an image of an antenna or wireless network. If there's no separate button, it may be combined with the cancel button or require a long press.
Press and hold the wireless button on the printer for 2-3 seconds until the Wi-Fi indicator starts flashing. Then, within 2 minutes, press the WPS button on the router. Once paired, the printer indicator will turn solid blue or green, indicating a successful connection.
It's worth noting that the WPS method only works if the router supports this technology and it's enabled. In some newer router models, the WPS function may be disabled by the manufacturer for security reasons, so this method is not suitable for all users.
Setup via USB cable and HP Smart Utility
If automatic connection fails, the most reliable method is initial setup via USB. For this, you'll need a USB Type-B (printer) cable, which is often included but may be required separately. This method ensures that the computer transmits the accurate SSID and network password to the printer.
Connect the printer to your computer via USB cable and turn it on. Then, run the driver installer downloaded from the official HP website or open the app. HP SmartThe program will automatically detect the connected device and prompt you to configure the wireless connection.
During the installation process, select "Wireless Connection" or "Configure via USB." The utility will automatically retrieve your current Wi-Fi network settings and transmit them to the printer. Once the data is received, the printer will switch to network mode, and the system will prompt you to disconnect the USB cable.
☑️ USB Setup Checklist
The advantage of this method is that it automatically installs all necessary driver and monitoring utility components, eliminating the need to search for them separately. After disconnecting the cable, the printer will remain online and accessible to all devices on the local network.
Using Wi-Fi Direct to print from mobile devices
Technology Wi-Fi Direct Allows you to create a direct connection between your mobile device (smartphone or tablet) and your printer, bypassing your home router. This is especially useful when visiting someone or at an office where access to the main Wi-Fi network is limited or blocked.
To activate this mode, press and hold the wireless button on the printer until the Wi-Fi Direct indicator starts blinking. Your printer's name, typically beginning with "DIRECT-xx-HP Laser...", will appear in the list of available networks on your smartphone screen.
When attempting to connect, the system will prompt you for a password. By default, it is often located on a sticker on the back or inside the printer, or can be printed by pressing the information button (i) on the device's panel. After entering the password, the device will connect directly to the printer.
Differences between Wi-Fi Direct and regular Wi-Fi
With a standard connection, the printer and phone are on the same router network, giving both devices internet access. With Wi-Fi Direct, the phone connects directly to the printer, and during this time, the phone may lose internet access if it doesn't support dual connections.
Keep in mind that with an active Wi-Fi Direct connection, data transfer speeds may be lower than through a router, and the range is limited to a few meters. This is a great option for one-time document printing, but for regular office work, a fixed connection via an access point is better.
Installing drivers and software
Once the printer is connected to the network, you need to install the software on the computers that will be used for printing. Windows 10 and 11 often automatically detect networked HP printers, but for full functionality (scanning, toner levels, quality settings), a full driver package is required.
Visit the HP support page and enter your device model. Download the "Full Software and Drivers" package. During the installation, select "Wireless" or "Network" for the connection type. The installer will scan your network and prompt you to select the printer from the list.
If the automatic search doesn't yield any results, you can add the printer manually through the Windows Control Panel. To do this, go to "Devices and Printers," select "Add a Printer," and click "The printer I want is missing." Then, select "Add by TCP/IP address."
| Parameter | Meaning / Action | Where to find |
|---|---|---|
| Printer IP address | 192.168.x.x | Configuration Report (i button) |
| Port | Standard TCP/IP Port | Windows Add Printer Wizard |
| Protocol | RAW | Port settings (automatic) |
| Driver | HP Laser 100 Series PCL6 | Windows driver list or HP website |
It's important to correctly determine the device's IP address. You can find it by printing a network configuration report: press and hold the information (i) button on the printer's control panel for 3 seconds. The report will contain the line "IP Address," which you'll need to enter during manual installation.
Diagnosing problems and resetting network settings
During operation, the printer may stop responding or change its IP address if a static address isn't reserved in the router. Issues may also be related to updating the router's firmware or changing the Wi-Fi password.
If the wireless indicator is blinking blue, it means the printer is trying to connect but can't. If the indicator is solid but the computer can't see the device, check to see if your antivirus or firewall is blocking the connection. Also, make sure both devices are on the same subnet.
If the connection is completely lost or you are unable to change settings, you may need to reset the printer's network settings to factory defaults. This typically requires pressing and holding the wireless button and the cancel button simultaneously for 3-5 seconds until all lights flash.
⚠️ Attention: After resetting your network settings, all previously saved Wi-Fi passwords will be deleted. You will need to re-configure your connection using any of the methods described above.
A common problem is changing the router's frequency band. If the router switches to a channel the printer doesn't recognize well, or changes the encryption standard, the connection will be lost. In such cases, reconnecting via USB to update the network settings can help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can the HP Laser 100a be connected to Wi-Fi?
Model HP Laser 100a Unlike the 100w model, it doesn't have a built-in Wi-Fi module. Connecting it wirelessly requires an additional print server or a computer that shares the printer.
What should I do if my computer can't see my printer on the network?
Check that the Wi-Fi indicator on the printer is solid. Make sure the computer and printer are connected to the same network (SSID). Try temporarily disabling your antivirus or firewall. Restarting the router and printer may also help.
How do I find the IP address of my HP Laser 107w printer?
Press and hold the Information (i) button on the printer control panel for 3 seconds. The printer will print a configuration report, which will list the current IP address in the Network Status section.
Does the HP Laser 100 series support printing from a phone?
Yes, when connected to a Wi-Fi network or via Wi-Fi Direct, you can print from Android and iOS devices using the app. HP Smart or built-in printing services of mobile device operating systems.
My printer stopped printing after changing my router. What should I do?
After changing your router, your printer's old network settings will become invalid. You'll need to reset your printer's network settings and reconnect it to the new Wi-Fi network using a USB cable or the new router's WPS method.