Modern compact printing devices often lack bulky interfaces, which makes them elegant, but sometimes difficult to set up initially. Model HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28A is a shining example of this approach, offering excellent laser printing quality in a minimalist design. However, the lack of a full-screen display or alphanumeric keypad forces users to seek alternative network access configurations.
Connecting a printer to a wireless network frees up your workspace from unnecessary cables and allows you to print documents from multiple computers or mobile devices simultaneously. This process requires careful attention, as the correct sequence of steps is critical for successful pairing. In this guide, we'll cover all available methods for activating WiFi on your device, including using a USB cable, WPS technology, and proprietary software.
Before you begin setup, make sure your router is working properly and you know the password for your WiFi network. It's also recommended to check that the printer is plugged in and ready to use, as indicated by the illuminated power indicator. Properly preparing your equipment is key to avoiding most common mistakes at the start.
Equipment preparation and requirements verification
The first step in the setup process is to thoroughly prepare all system components. Make sure that wireless router The device is turned on and transmitting a signal, and the computer or laptop you'll be using for configuration is connected to the same network. If you plan to use a temporary wired connection for configuration, make sure you have a working USB Type-A cable, which is usually included with the device.
It is important to understand that this printer model only supports a range of frequencies 2.4 GHzIf your router broadcasts two networks with the same name (dual-band), this can cause confusion when selecting an access point. In such cases, it is recommended to temporarily separate the networks in the router settings or ensure that your configuration device sees the network the printer should connect to.
⚠️ Important: Make sure that VPN or proxy server is disabled on your device before starting the setup, as they may block the printer from being discovered on your local network.
Place the printer near the router during setup to avoid signal problems. Once connected, you can move the device to any convenient location within WiFi range. Check for ink or toner. While this isn't critical for network setup, it will allow you to print a test page immediately.
☑️ Check before setup
Using WPS technology for quick setup
The fastest way to connect HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28A to the network is the use of technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method allows you to transfer network settings automatically, without having to manually enter a complex password on your computer. First, make sure your router has a physical WPS button or is accessible through the web interface.
Press and hold the wireless button on the printer's control panel for a few seconds until the WiFi light starts flashing. Then, within two minutes, press the WPS button on your router. If successful, the wireless light on the printer will stop flashing and turn solid, indicating a successful connection.
- 📡 Find the WPS button on your router (often marked with an icon of two arrows).
- 🖨️ Activate search mode on the printer by holding down the wireless network button.
- ✅ Wait until the WiFi indicator on the printer turns on continuously.
It's worth noting that not all providers or router models support this feature by default for security reasons. If the router button doesn't respond or the printer can't find the network, this method may not work. In this case, you'll have to resort to more traditional software configuration methods.
What to do if WPS doesn't work?
If your router doesn't support WPS or the feature is disabled, the printer's indicator light will blink until it times out. In this case, use the USB cable setup method and HP Smart software, or the full driver package from the manufacturer's website. Also, check whether WPS is blocked in the router's admin panel.
Setup via USB cable and HP software
The most reliable and universal configuration method is to use a temporary USB connection. You will need to download the latest version of the drivers and utilities. HP Smart or a complete package HP LaserJet Full Feature Software From the official support website. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions, selecting the wireless connection option.
When the program prompts you to connect the device, connect the printer and computer with a USB cable. The software will automatically detect the model and transfer your current network's WiFi settings to it. This method is especially convenient because you don't need to manually enter the password—the program retrieves it from your computer's network settings.
Sequence of actions:1. Download drivers from the official HP website.
2. Run the installer and select "Wireless connection".
3. Connect the USB cable when prompted by the program.
4. Wait until the settings are transferred and the cable is disconnected.
Once the wireless indicator on the printer lights up steadily, the program will prompt you to disconnect the USB cable. At this point, your device is ready to work over the network. If the installer doesn't detect the printer, try using a different USB port or replacing the cable, as the problem is often rooted in the physical connection.
Comparison of connection methods and their features
The choice of connection method often depends on the specific situation, the equipment available, and the operating system version. Each method has its own advantages and limitations, which should be considered before beginning the process. Below is a table to help you determine the best option for your situation.
| Method | Necessary equipment | Complexity | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| WPS | Router with a WPS button | Low | High |
| USB cable | USB AB cable, PC | Average | Average |
| Mobile application | Smartphone, WiFi Direct | High | Low |
| HP Auto Wireless Connect | Installed driver | Low | Average |
Using the mobile app HP Smart This is also possible, but requires some preparation and may be less stable when initially set up without a computer. Method HP Auto Wireless Connect Only works if the drivers were already installed previously but the network was changed.
For office networks with corporate security and a hidden SSID, the most suitable option remains connecting via a USB cable with manual parameter entry or using specialized corporate deployment tools.
Solving common connection problems
Even if you follow all the instructions, situations may arise where the printer doesn't see the network or can't connect to it. Most often, the problem lies in the router's security settings or frequency range. Make sure your router isn't using filtering. MAC addresses, which can block new devices.
If the wireless light is blinking, it means the printer is in setup mode or attempting to connect. Constant blinking may indicate a connection error. Try resetting the printer's network settings by holding the wireless button and the cancel button simultaneously for 5 seconds until all lights blink.
- 🔒 Check if your antivirus or firewall is blocking the printer connection.
- 📶 Make sure the printer is within range of the router's strong signal.
- 🔄 Restart your router and printer to update the IP addresses on your local network.
In some cases, temporarily disabling the "Hidden SSID" feature on your router can help. After the printer is successfully connected to the network, you can reset the router's security settings to their default values. It's also worth checking whether your router's DHCP address pool is full, which often happens on networks with a large number of devices.
⚠️ Note: Router interfaces and driver versions may vary. If standard methods don't work, check your specific router's documentation or contact your ISP for network settings.
Printing a network configuration report
To diagnose problems or simply get information about the current connection status, it's helpful to print a network configuration report. This document contains the printer's IP address, MAC address, network name (SSID), and connection status. To obtain this report, press and hold the Resume button (or the Wireless button, depending on the firmware version) on the printer's control panel.
In the report you will find a line IP Address, which shows the device's address on the local network. If the address starts with 169.254.x.x, this means the printer hasn't received an address from the router and the connection hasn't been established. If the connection is successful, the correct address will be displayed, for example, 192.168.1.55.
Having this report significantly simplifies communication with technical support, as the specialist can immediately see the current connection parameters. Keep this report until you've fully debugged the device on your network.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can the HP M28A be connected to a 5GHz network?
No, model HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28A supports only the standard 802.11 b/g/n, which operates exclusively in the 2.4 GHz frequency range. To connect to a modern dual-band router, ensure the 2.4 GHz network is active and has a separate name (SSID), or use compatibility mode.
What should I do if my computer doesn't see the printer after setting up WiFi?
Make sure your computer and printer are connected to the same subnet. Sometimes antivirus software can block network device detection. Try adding the printer manually by IP address using the "Devices and Printers" menu in Windows and selecting "Add a printer using TCP/IP address."
How do I reset my printer's network settings to factory defaults?
To reset network settings, turn off the printer. Press and hold the Wireless button and the Cancel button simultaneously. Without releasing them, turn on the printer. Hold the buttons for about 5-10 seconds until all the lights flash simultaneously. This will reset the network settings to factory defaults.
Is a USB cable required for the printer to work continuously?
No, the USB cable is only required during the initial wireless setup. Once the printer has acquired the WiFi settings and the indicator light is solid, you can disconnect the cable. A wired connection is not required for further printing.