It is impossible to imagine a modern office without a reliable multifunctional device that combines printing, scanning and copying capabilities. Model HP Laser MFP 135wR It's deservedly popular due to its compact size and wireless connectivity, allowing the device to be placed anywhere conveniently, without being tied down by wires. However, initial network setup often presents difficulties for users accustomed to a traditional cable connection or new to the interface. HP Smart.
A successful connection to the local network unlocks advanced features, such as mobile printing and remote toner level monitoring. The configuration process may vary depending on your computer's operating system and the device's firmware version. In this article, we'll cover all the current methods for activating the wireless module in detail, focusing on nuances often overlooked during standard driver installations.
It's important to understand that printer stability on the network directly depends on the router's signal quality and the accuracy of the entered data. Before beginning the procedure, make sure you know the password for your Wi-Fi network and have physical access to both devices. We'll cover methods that don't require extensive technical knowledge but provide professional results.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before proceeding with the software part of the setup, it is necessary to perform a number of preparatory actions with the device itself. Make sure that HP Laser MFP 135wR Connected to a power source and ready to use, as indicated by the illuminated power indicator. The distance between the printer and the router during setup should be minimal to prevent data packet loss due to a weak signal.
Resetting the device's network settings is a critical step, especially if the printer was previously used on a different network or was purchased used. This will return the wireless module settings to factory defaults and avoid IP address conflicts. To perform a reset, press and hold the wireless button on the control panel for several seconds until the lights begin flashing.
⚠️ Attention: Resetting network settings does not affect your personal files or scanning settings, but may require you to re-set your IP address if you used a static assignment.
It's also worth checking your router's compatibility with the device's frequency range. Most HP models, including the 135 series, operate in the range 2.4 GHz, which is the standard for IoT devices. If your router only broadcasts a 5 GHz network, the printer simply won't see the access point, resulting in a connection error.
- 📶 Make sure your router is broadcasting 802.11b/g/n network.
- 🔌 Check if there is a free USB port on your PC for a temporary connection (if you select the WPS or USB method).
- 📱 Install the HP Smart app on your smartphone for quick diagnostics.
Don't skip checking the cartridge charge level before running extensive network tests, as the device may enter power-saving mode during lengthy setup procedures. Having paper in the tray is also essential, as many printers print a network configuration report immediately after a successful connection.
Connection method via WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)
The fastest way to integrate a device into your home network is using WPS technology, which automatically transfers security settings. This method is ideal for users who don't want to manually enter complex passwords or mess with drivers initially. First, make sure your router has a physical WPS button or has the corresponding feature enabled in the web interface.
On the control panel HP Laser MFP 135wR Find the button with an antenna or wireless network icon. Press and hold it until the wireless indicator starts blinking. Within two minutes, press the WPS button on your router. The devices will find each other and exchange encryption keys without your intervention.
The process typically takes no more than a minute, after which the printer's Wi-Fi indicator will glow solid, indicating a successful connection. If the indicator stops blinking and remains lit, the connection has not been established, and you should repeat the process, ensuring you are in a strong signal area.
⚠️ Attention: The WPS method will not work if your network uses an encryption type other than WPA/WPA2 Personal, or if the WPS function is disabled in the router security settings by your ISP.
It's important to note that some modern routers disable WPS by default for security reasons. In this case, you'll need to access the router settings via a browser and manually enable this protocol before beginning the pairing process.
Setup via USB cable and HP Smart app
If automatic methods fail, the most reliable option is to use a temporary USB connection to transfer network settings. This method requires an installation disc or a driver downloaded from the official website. HP Laser MFP 135wRRun the installer and select the "Connect the printer wirelessly" option.
The program will ask you to connect the device to your computer via a USB cable. At this point, the printer is automatically detected and its current configuration is read. Next, the installation wizard will prompt you to select your wireless network from the list of available ones and enter the password. After confirmation, the program will transfer this data to the printer via the USB cable.
☑️ Preparing for setup via USB
Once the printer receives the data, it will attempt to connect to the router. A successful connection will be indicated by a message on the computer screen and a prompt to disconnect the USB cable. From this point on, the device becomes a fully autonomous network node.
| Parameter | Meaning / Description | Where to find |
|---|---|---|
| Network name (SSID) | The name of your Wi-Fi | On the router sticker |
| Security type | WPA2-Personal (recommended) | In the router settings |
| IP address | Dynamic (DHCP) | Printed in the report |
| Communication channel | Auto | Determined by the router |
Using a cable ensures that even with complex network settings (hidden SSID, MAC filtering), you can successfully transfer parameters. This is the only method that bypasses the limitations imposed by mobile operating systems during direct configuration.
Configuration directly from the control panel
For experienced users or when a computer is not available, setup is available directly through the MFP's interface. Press the setup button (gear icon) or the wireless button to access the network menu. Select "Wireless Network Setup," then "Wireless Setup Wizard."
The printer will begin searching for available networks. Find your router's name in the list that appears. If the network is hidden, select the option to enter the name manually. After selecting the network, the device will prompt for a password. Enter characters using the navigation buttons (up, down, left, right) and the OK button.
What if your network is not on the list?
If your router broadcasts a network in the 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) standard in "6-only" mode, older devices may not see it. Try enabling mixed mode or a 2.4 GHz guest network on your router.
Entering the password is the most time-consuming step and requires careful attention. Use the right arrow key to switch between numbers, letters, and special characters. After entering all characters, confirm the action, and the printer will attempt to connect.
- 🔍 Use the "Back" button to correct errors when entering your password.
- 📡 Make sure that the signal indicator on the screen shows at least 2-3 divisions.
- 💾 Save your settings, even if your device prompts you to do so automatically.
After a successful connection, a connection message may appear on the screen, and the Wi-Fi indicator will turn blue. It is recommended to immediately download the configuration report to record the device's IP address.
Advanced settings and static IP
In corporate networks or with unstable DHCP, assigning a static IP address to a printer is often necessary. This prevents computers from "losing" the printer after a router reboot due to its address changing. To do this, you need to know the current gateway and subnet mask of your network.
These settings are typically accessed through the EWS's embedded web server. Enter the printer's IP address in the browser's address bar. Go to the "Network" tab, then to IPv4 settings, and change the mode from "Automatic (DHCP)" to "Manual."
Enter the desired IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.200), subnet mask (usually 255.255.255.0), and gateway address (your router's address). After applying the settings, the printer will reboot the network module and become accessible at the new, permanent address.
⚠️ Attention: When assigning a static IP, make sure the address you select is outside the range of the router's DHCP pool of addresses to avoid address conflicts.
Using a static address also simplifies driver installation on multiple computers in the office, as the printer port won't change. This is especially important for print servers and document management systems.
Diagnosing problems and printing a report
If the connection fails, the first step should be printing a wireless network report. This can be done by holding the wireless button or through the "Reports" menu. The report contains detailed information about the connection status, signal strength, and causes of errors.
Please note the error code, if any. Issues are often related to incorrect encryption or incompatible security standards. The report will also show the device's MAC address, which may be needed to whitelist the printer on the router.
In some cases, a simple restart of the entire chain can help: turn off the router, printer, and computer. Turn on the router and wait for it to fully boot up, then turn on the printer. This sequence ensures that the printer receives the correct IP address from the already running DHCP server.
If the problem persists, try temporarily disabling MAC address filtering on your router or creating a separate, unrestricted guest network to test the device's functionality. This will help isolate the issue: whether it's the printer itself or the network security settings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can the HP Laser MFP 135wR be connected to a 5GHz network?
No, this model is equipped with a Wi-Fi module that operates exclusively in the 2.4 GHz band. To connect, ensure your router broadcasts a network in this band, or combine the 2.4 and 5 GHz network names into one (if your router supports Smart Connect), although separate networks are often more reliable.
What should I do if my printer requires a firmware update when connected?
We recommend accepting the update, as new software versions often contain fixes for security vulnerabilities and improve Wi-Fi connection stability. The process may take several minutes; do not interrupt the device's power during this time.
How do I reset my network settings if I forgot my Wi-Fi password?
To reset the network settings to factory defaults, press and hold the Wireless button and the Cancel button (the cross) simultaneously for 3-5 seconds. The indicators should flash to confirm the reset. You can then restart the setup wizard.
Why doesn't the computer see the printer on the network, even though the Wi-Fi is on?
A common cause is using different subnets or a guest network on the router, which isolates devices from each other. Make sure the computer and printer are connected to the same main network, not a guest network.