Modern laser printers have long ceased to be bulky devices that require a USB cable and a desktop computer. Model HP LaserJet Pro M28w It has become one of the most popular solutions for home and small offices thanks to its compact size and wireless support. The ability to send documents and photos directly from a smartphone or tablet is not just convenient, but a necessity in a highly mobile world.
However, the initial setup wireless connection This feature often raises questions among users. Unlike larger models, the M28w lacks a full-screen menu, requiring alternative configuration methods. You'll have to rely on blinking indicators or a mobile app to pair the device with your router.
In this article, we'll take a detailed look at all available connection methods: from the classic WPS method to advanced setup via an app. HP SmartWe'll also cover important network security considerations and examine common errors owners of this model encounter when attempting to print from iOS or Android.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before you begin software configuration, you must ensure that the hardware is physically ready. Printer HP M28w The cartridge must be unpacked, and all shipping tapes and fasteners inside the device must be removed. A missing cartridge or an open access door will block any attempts to configure the network.
Make sure your smartphone and printer are within range of a strong signal. For the technology to work properly, Wi-Fi Direct When connecting to a shared network, the distance between devices should not exceed 5-7 meters, especially if there are solid walls between them. Also, make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone, as modern OS versions use it for initial printer detection.
⚠️ Important: Make sure your router is broadcasting in the 2.4 GHz band. The M28w model does not support modern 5 GHz networks, and your phone may not see the printer if both devices are in different frequency bands.
An important step is to check the compatibility of your mobile device's operating system. To use the app HP Smart Current versions of Android (usually 8.0 and above) or iOS (13.0 and above) are required. If you're using an older smartphone, you may need to use alternative methods, such as cloud printing.
WPS Method: Quick connection without password
The fastest way to set up HP LaserJet M28w To work on a Wi-Fi network, use WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method allows you to transfer security settings from the router to the printer automatically, without having to enter a long password on your phone's screen.
To begin, press and hold the wireless button on the printer's control panel for 3 seconds. The Wi-Fi indicator will begin flashing blue, indicating it's in search mode. Within two minutes, press the WPS button on your router. It's usually marked with a corresponding icon or text.
The connection process will take about a minute. A successful connection is confirmed by a steady blue wireless network indicator on the printer. If the indicator continues to flash, the connection has not been established, and you'll need to repeat the process, ensuring you press the buttons on both devices within the appropriate time intervals.
- 📶 Press the Wi-Fi button on the printer until the indicator starts blinking.
- 🔘 Activate WPS mode on your router within 2 minutes.
- ✅ Wait until the indicator stops flashing and remains lit continuously.
- 📱 Check if the new device appears in the list of available printers on your phone.
☑️ WPS Readiness Check
Setup via the HP Smart app
The most functional and manufacturer-recommended method is to use the app. HP SmartThis tool not only helps you set up Wi-Fi but also provides access to scanning, toner level monitoring, and firmware updates. Download the app from Google Play or the App Store and create an HP account (this is a mandatory requirement for the app to work).
After installation, launch the app and click the "Add Printer" button or the "+" icon. The program will automatically search for devices within range. If the printer was already turned on and is in setup mode (blue indicator flashing), HP Smart will detect it and offer to start the configuration.
During the setup process, the app will ask you to select your home Wi-Fi network and enter the password. It's important that Bluetooth and location services are also enabled on your smartphone, as the app uses these modules to transmit network settings to the printer. Once the data transfer is successful, the printer will reboot its network module and connect to the router.
⚠️ Please note: The HP Smart app interface is subject to change. Button locations and menu item names may differ from those described, so please read the on-screen prompts carefully during the installation process.
If the automatic search doesn't yield results, you can use manual mode. In the app, select "Set up a new device" and follow the instructions. Sometimes you'll need to temporarily connect your phone to the printer's Wi-Fi network (it will be named something like "HP-Setup-Plus-...") to transfer the printer's primary network settings.
Using Wi-Fi Direct to print without a router
Mode Wi-Fi Direct Allows you to establish a direct connection between your phone and printer without a router. This is ideal if you're visiting someone, in an office with a secure network, or if your home router is temporarily down. The printer automatically creates an access point to which your smartphone connects.
To activate this mode on HP M28w, press and hold the Wireless button and the Cancel button (red X) simultaneously for 3 seconds. The Power indicator will flash and the Wi-Fi indicator will turn solid, indicating it's ready for a direct connection.
On your phone, go to Wi-Fi settings and find the network with a name that includes the printer model (e.g., "DIRECT-xx-HP M28"). When connecting, the system will ask for a password. By default, it's located on a sticker on the back of the device or can be printed using the information button (the button with the letter "i").
Once the printer is connected to the network, you can print documents. However, keep in mind that in this mode, your phone will be disconnected from the internet, as the Wi-Fi module is busy transmitting data to the printer. To get back online, you'll need to switch back to the main network.
How do I find out the Wi-Fi Direct password?
If the sticker on the case wears off, press and hold the information button (i) on the printer for 3 seconds. The device will automatically print a report containing the Wi-Fi Direct password (Wireless Password).
Comparison of connection methods and their features
The choice of connection method depends on your specific needs and operating conditions. Each of the methods discussed has its own advantages and limitations, which are important to consider for stable operation.
| Parameter | WPS | HP Smart App | Wi-Fi Direct |
|---|---|---|---|
| Presence of a router | Necessarily | Necessarily | Not required |
| Complexity | Low | Average | Low |
| Internet access | Eat | Eat | No (local only) |
| Functional | Print only | Full (scan, toner) | Print only |
Using the application HP Smart Provides the most complete control over the device, allowing you to not only print but also scan documents directly to the cloud or your phone's gallery. WPS mode is great for quick initial setup, and Wi-Fi Direct is a lifesaver in situations where network infrastructure is unavailable.
For continuous work in the office or at home, a router connection is the optimal solution. This allows you to print from multiple devices simultaneously and maintain internet access on your mobile devices while printing.
Solving common connection problems
Even if you follow all the instructions, problems may still occur. Often, the problem lies in the phone and printer being on different subnets, or the router blocking new devices. If the printer isn't visible on the network, try temporarily disabling the "AP Client Isolation" feature in your router settings, if available.
Another common error is entering the wrong Wi-Fi password during setup via the app. Since the printer doesn't have a keyboard, you won't see the error right away. In this case, resetting the network settings helps: press and hold the wireless button and the information (i) button for 3 seconds, then repeat the setup process.
If printing is occurring, but is very slow or interrupted, check the signal strength. Laser printer M28w It has a compact antenna, and metal objects near it can block the signal. Also, make sure your phone isn't in "Data Saver" mode, which can block large print files.
- 🔄 Reset the printer's network settings using a combination of buttons.
- 📡 Check if your phone's antivirus software is blocking local devices.
- 🔌 Make sure the printer's power cord is plugged directly into a wall outlet and not into a loose extension cord.
- 📲 Update the HP Smart app to the latest version.
⚠️ Note: If you change your Wi-Fi password or network name, your printer will lose its connection. You'll need to repeat the setup process, as it won't automatically reconnect to the updated network.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I connect the HP M28w to a computer without Wi-Fi?
Yes, model HP LaserJet Pro M28w Equipped with a USB 2.0 port, you can connect it to a computer or laptop using a standard Type AB cable (printer cable). This will disable wireless functionality, and the device will function as a regular wired printer.
Does this printer support AirPrint and Mopier printing?
Yes, the HP M28w fully supports Apple AirPrint technology for iOS devices, allowing you to print without installing drivers. It also supports the Mopier protocol for Android devices, ensuring compatibility with most modern smartphones and tablets.
What should I do if my phone sees the printer but doesn't send the document?
Often, resetting the print queue on your phone resolves the issue. Also, check that the printer's status isn't set to "Offline" in the printer settings. Ensure both devices are connected to a Wi-Fi network with internet access (unless you're using Wi-Fi Direct).
How to find the IP address of a printer on the network?
To obtain a network configuration report, press and hold the information (i) button on the printer control panel for 3 seconds. The printed report will display the device's current IP address in the "Network" or "Wireless" section.