Modern laser printers HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28 And M31 These are compact devices that fit perfectly into a home office or small workgroup. However, to unlock their full potential, you need to get rid of unnecessary wires and set up wireless printing. Switching to Wi-Fi connection allows you to print documents directly from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop, from anywhere in your apartment.
The initial configuration process may seem confusing to a beginner, but in reality, it simply requires attention and following the correct sequence of steps. In this article, we'll cover all available methods for activating the wireless module using official utilities. Hewlett-Packard and standard operating system functions. You'll learn not only how to connect your device but also how to diagnose common errors.
Before you begin, make sure your router operates in the 2.4 GHz band, as these models do not support 5 GHz networksAlso, have your Wi-Fi network password ready, as it will be needed to authorize the printer on your local network. If you just unpacked the device, make sure the cartridge is installed and the protective tape is removed.
Preparing for wireless installation
The first step is to physically prepare the equipment. Make sure the MFP is plugged in and located within range of the router's signal. The distance between the printer and the access point should not exceed the standard limits for stable operation; otherwise, connection interruptions may occur when transferring large amounts of data.
It's important to understand the difference between USB and Wi-Fi operating modes. Successful setup often requires temporarily connecting a USB cable, especially if you're using the HP Smart or an installation disk. Once the procedure is complete, the cable can be disconnected, and the device will switch to a completely autonomous mode.
☑️ Check before setup
There are several ways to activate the wireless interface, each with its own advantages. The choice of method depends on whether you have a Windows or macOS computer available, as well as your preferences for using mobile apps.
⚠️ Important: If your router uses MAC address filtering, you must whitelist the printer's address in advance. You can find the MAC address by printing a configuration report or by looking at the sticker on the device.
Using the HP Smart app to set up
The most modern and universal way is to use the application HP SmartIt's available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. This method is preferred because the app automatically detects the device on the network and offers the necessary drivers, eliminating complex manual configuration.
To get started, download and install the app from the manufacturer's official website or from your OS's app store. Launch the app and click the "Add Printer" button or the plus sign. The app will begin searching for devices connected to your computer or nearby.
- 📱 Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your smartphone—this will speed up the printer search in setup mode.
- 🔌 If the app doesn't detect the device, temporarily connect the printer to the PC via a USB cable to transfer the initial network settings.
- 📶 Select your Wi-Fi network from the list and enter the password when prompted by the app.
During the setup process, the program may offer to update the device firmware. It is recommended to agree, as new software versions often contain vulnerability fixes and improve connection stability. After the update, the printer will reboot and automatically connect to the router.
What should I do if HP Smart doesn't see my printer?
Make sure location services are enabled on your device (for Android/iOS), as this is required to scan for Wi-Fi networks. Also, check if your antivirus or firewall is blocking the app. Try restarting your router and printer, then try scanning again.
Configuration via the control panel (WPS)
If your router has a physical button WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) significantly simplifies the connection process. This method allows you to transfer network security settings without having to manually enter the password, which is convenient if you've forgotten complex characters.
On the printer control panel HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28 or M31 Find the button with the antenna or wireless icon. Press and hold it for a few seconds until the power light starts flashing. This will put the printer into WPS connection mode.
Within two minutes, press the WPS button on your router. This is usually located on the back of the device. After pressing it, the lights on the router and printer should begin to flash more rapidly, indicating data exchange is in progress.
| Indicator | State | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Nutrition | Flashing | WPS setting mode is active |
| Wireless network | It's on constantly | Successful connection to Wi-Fi |
| Wireless network | Blinks slowly | Connection error or searching for network |
| Wireless network | Turned off | The Wi-Fi module is turned off |
Once the connection is established, the wireless indicator on the printer will turn solid. This means the device has received an IP address from the router and is ready to use. Now you can proceed to installing the drivers on your computer.
Installing drivers and software
Once the printer is connected to the network, you need to install software on your computer so that the operating system can correctly interact with the device. For models of the series M28/M31 It is best to use a complete driver package, which includes utilities for scanning and monitoring toner levels.
Go to the official HP support website and enter your device model. The system will prompt you to download the file. HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28-M31 Print and Scan Doctor or the full driver package. Run the downloaded file and follow the installation wizard's instructions.
During installation, select the "Wireless" or "Network" connection type. The program will automatically detect the printer on your local network using its IP address. If the automatic search fails, you can select the "Printer not found" option and enter the IP address manually.
- 💻 For Windows: After installation, check the Devices and Printers section to ensure the device shows as "Online."
- 🍏 For macOS: Open System Preferences → Printers & Scanners, click + and select HP LaserJet from the list of available ones.
- 📄 Make sure you have the scanning driver installed if you need the network copy and scan feature.
⚠️ Please note: Operating system interfaces and manufacturer websites are subject to change. If you can't find the exact button or menu, search for similar topics or use the HP support site search.
Connection problems and their solutions
Even if you follow all the instructions, technical difficulties may arise. Most often, problems are related to incompatible encryption standards or firewall settings. If the printer won't connect to Wi-Fi, the first thing to check is whether your network is using a hidden SSID or complex corporate security protocols.
A common mistake is trying to connect to a guest Wi-Fi network. Guest networks often have client isolation, which prevents devices within the network from communicating with each other. To print, you must connect the printer and computer to the main network.
If the Wi-Fi light continues to flash, try resetting the printer's network settings. To do this, press and hold the wireless button and the cancel button (the cross) simultaneously for 5 seconds. Then, repeat the setup process.
In some cases, antivirus software on your computer may block network printer installation. Try temporarily disabling the firewall or adding an exception for HP installation processes. Also, make sure that Windows printing services are enabled.
Mobile printing and additional features
Once Wi-Fi is successfully set up, mobile printing options are available to you. Technologies Apple AirPrint And Mopria for Android allow you to send documents to print directly, without installing additional drivers on mobile devices.
Just open a document or photo on your smartphone, select the Share menu or the printer icon, and the system will suggest available devices. Your HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28/M31 should appear in the list if the phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
The function is also available Wi-Fi DirectIt allows you to connect your smartphone directly to the printer, bypassing the router. This is useful if you're in a location without access to the main Wi-Fi network but need to print a document urgently.
To activate Wi-Fi Direct, press the corresponding button on the control panel or use the HP Smart app menu. The network name and password for connection will appear on the screen. Keep in mind that data transfer speeds in this mode may be lower than through a router.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can HP M28/M31 be connected to a 5GHz network?
No, the HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28 and M31 models only support the 802.11b/g/n standard, which operates in the 2.4 GHz frequency band. If your router broadcasts networks with the same name (SSID) for both 2.4 and 5 GHz, try separating them in your router settings or ensure that the printer sees the 2.4 GHz network.
How to find the IP address of a printer on the network?
To obtain a network configuration report, press and hold the "Cancel" button (the cross) for 3-5 seconds. The printer will print a page with the device's current IP address listed in the "Network" or "IPv4" section.
My printer disappeared from the network after replacing my router. What should I do?
After changing your router or Wi-Fi password, you'll need to reconfigure the wireless connection on your printer, as the old settings will become invalid. Use the WPS button or the HP Smart app to enter the new network settings.
Does this printer support HP ePrint cloud printing?
The M28 and M31 models are budget-friendly and typically lack built-in ePrint or HP cloud services. Printing is only possible within a local network or via Wi-Fi Direct.