Modern office tasks require mobility, and a wired connection between a device and a computer often becomes a limiting factor. Model HP LaserJet MFP 135w Equipped with a built-in wireless module, the device can be placed anywhere with a signal. However, initial setup often raises questions for users accustomed to a traditional cable connection.
Activating wireless mode doesn't require extensive networking knowledge, but it does require strict adherence to the correct sequence of steps. An error at any stage can prevent the computer from detecting the printer on the local network. In this article, we'll cover all available configuration methods in detail.
It's important to understand that printer stability on the network directly depends on the router's signal quality and the correct security settings. Before starting the process, make sure you know your WiFi network password and are in a strong reception area. We'll cover both automatic and manual connection methods.
Preparing equipment and checking network status
The first step before starting the setup is physical preparation. peripheral deviceMake sure the MFP is plugged in and ready to use. The power indicator should be solid and not flashing, indicating the self-test has completed successfully.
Look at the control panel for a button with an antenna icon. If the indicator light next to it is blinking blue, this means the wireless module is active, but a connection has not yet been established. If the indicator light is off, you need to activate wireless mode manually.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure your router is distributing the network in the 2.4 GHz range Model HP LaserJet MFP 135w may not support modern WiFi 6 standards or networks exclusively in the 5 GHz range without special router configuration.
It's also worth checking if your antivirus or Windows Firewall has blocked access to new devices on the network. Sometimes security systems perceive an attempt to connect a printer as suspicious activity.
Activating wireless mode on the control panel
To use wireless networks, you need to set the printer to wireless mode. Press and hold the wireless button on the control panel for a few seconds until the light starts blinking. This puts the network adapter into search or connection mode.
If the automatic connection doesn't occur immediately, you may need to reset the network settings to factory defaults. To do this, simultaneously press and hold the wireless button and the cancel button (the cross) for 3 seconds. After this procedure, the device will be ready for the new configuration.
In some cases, you may need to confirm your network selection through the menu if the printer was previously connected to a different router. Navigate the menu using the arrow buttons, and confirm your selection with the OK button or the wireless button, depending on the firmware version.
☑️ Check before connection
WPS method: quick connection to the router
The easiest way that does not require entering a password manually is to use technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method works if your router also supports this feature and has a corresponding physical or software button.
Press and hold the WPS button on your router for a few seconds until the router's security light starts flashing. Then, within two minutes, press and hold the wireless button on the printer's control panel. HP LaserJet MFP 135w.
The device will automatically exchange encryption keys and establish a connection. A steady blue wireless indicator will indicate successful completion. If the indicator continues to flash, the handshake was unsuccessful and the process should be repeated.
What to do if WPS doesn't work?
WPS may be disabled in your router settings for security reasons or may not be supported by your ISP. In this case, use the USB cable connection method or the HP Smart app.
Setup via USB cable and HP Smart Utility
If automatic methods fail, the most reliable option is initial setup via a wired connection. To do this, you'll need a USB Type-B (printer) cable and a computer running Windows or macOS.
Download and install the software HP Smart From the manufacturer's official website or from the Microsoft Store. Launch the app and click the "Add Printer" button or the plus sign in the interface.
Connect the MFP to your computer via USB cable when prompted. The utility will automatically detect the device and prompt you to configure the wireless network. You'll need to select your WiFi network from the list and enter the password.
| Setup stage | User action | Indicator reaction |
|---|---|---|
| Initialization | Launching HP Smart | The USB indicator is on |
| Network selection | Entering a WiFi password | Flashing blue |
| Data transfer | Expectation | Fast blinking |
| Conclusion | Disconnecting USB | Burns evenly |
Once the program reports a successful connection, you can disconnect the USB cable. The printer will retain its network settings and be available for over-the-air printing. The computer will also begin communicating with the device over the network.
Using the HP Smart mobile app
HP has developed a convenient application for smartphone and tablet users. HP Smart, available for iOS and Android. This method allows you to set up your printer without using a computer, which is especially convenient if you don't have a USB cable handy.
Install the app and create an HP account (this is a mandatory requirement for the service). Add a new printer by tapping the add device icon. The app will prompt you to enable Bluetooth on your smartphone to search for nearby HP devices.
When MFP 135w Once found, follow the on-screen instructions. The app will automatically transfer the WiFi network settings your phone is connected to to the printer. This is possible thanks to the Bluetooth Low Energy data transfer protocol.
It's important that your smartphone and printer are in close proximity during setup. Once complete, you'll be able to not only print documents but also scan images directly to your phone's memory.
Direct WiFi connection without a router
There's a scenario where you need to print a document from a laptop or phone, but you don't have access to the main WiFi network or the router is temporarily down. In this case, the technology WiFi Direct.
This feature allows the printer HP LaserJet MFP 135w Create your own access point to which client devices connect directly. To activate, press and hold the wireless button on the printer panel until the WiFi Direct indicator lights up.
On the device you plan to print from, find the printer model name in the list of available networks (e.g., HP-Print-xx-LaserJet 135w). Connect to this network by entering the password.
⚠️ Note: When connecting via WiFi Direct, the device loses internet access because the WiFi module is busy connecting to the printer. Use this method only for local printing.
The connection password is usually found on a sticker on the back of the device or may be printed in the configuration report. After printing, remember to disconnect from the printer's network to restore internet access to your device.
Troubleshooting and Frequently Asked Questions
Even if you follow all the instructions, technical difficulties may still arise. Most often, problems are related to an incorrect password, a weak signal, or an IP address conflict. If the wireless light continues to flash, try restarting the router and printer.
Make sure your device has the latest drivers installed. Older software may not work correctly with the new WPA3 security protocols being implemented in modern routers. In such cases, it's recommended to temporarily downgrade your network security to WPA2 for configuration purposes.
If all else fails, perform a full reset of the printer's network settings. This will restore factory settings and clear the list of saved networks, which often resolves issues with stuck configurations.
Why doesn't the computer see the printer after setting up WiFi?
Most often, the problem is that the computer and printer are on different subnets or the private network is marked as "public" in Windows settings. Make sure both devices are connected to the same network (don't confuse the guest network with the primary one) and enable device discovery in the network profile.
Can the HP 135w be connected to a hidden WiFi network?
Directly connecting to a hidden network (Hidden SSID) through the printer's standard menu is impossible because it can't find a network to scan to. In this case, the only option is to use a USB cable and the HP Smart utility, which allows you to manually enter the hidden network name.
What is the maximum WiFi range of this model?
The range depends on the power of your router and the presence of obstacles. In open areas, the module HP LaserJet MFP 135w The signal maintains a reliable range of up to 30-40 meters. In an office with concrete walls, the range may be reduced to 10-15 meters.
Do I need to reinstall drivers when switching to WiFi?
Yes, when switching from USB to WiFi, the operating system often treats the printer as a new device. It's recommended to remove the old USB printer from the device list and add the new network printer, installing the full driver package with wireless support.