Many users experience difficulties when first getting acquainted with compact laser devices, especially when it comes to wireless connectivity. Model HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28w There's no password entry screen, which initially seems inconvenient, but actually simplifies the design and reduces the cost. You don't need to search for the "Wi-Fi" button on the printer itself to enter characters, as all the logic is based on the indicators and software.
Successful Wi-Fi setup Requires some preparation: Make sure your router is turned on and broadcasting at 2.4 GHz, as older laser printers often don't support the 5 GHz standard. Also, make sure your computer or smartphone has a free USB port or the app installed. HP SmartWithout these basic conditions, the process may be delayed or end with an error during the device search phase.
There are several proven methods for activating wireless connectivity, each with its own advantages depending on your situation. We'll cover them in detail so you can choose the most convenient option. Just don't panic if the LEDs don't flash as described in the quick start guide, as LED behavior depends on the firmware version.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before you start installing the drivers, you need to physically prepare M28w Ready for use. Remove all transport tapes and orange tabs from the paper tray and cartridge. Only then plug the device into a power outlet and wait until the warm-up cycle is complete, indicated by the green Ready indicator.
It's critically important to understand the limitations of this MFP's wireless module. It operates exclusively within the range 2.4 GHz, which is standard for most home networks, but may conflict if your router combines both bands (2.4 and 5 GHz) under a single name (SSID). In such cases, the router may attempt to connect to a printer on an unsupported frequency.
⚠️ Attention: If your router uses a "Smart Connect" or similar feature, temporarily separate the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks by giving them different names to ensure the printer connects to the correct frequency.
To connect, you'll need a stable signal. If the printer is in a metal cabinet or three rooms away from the router, the connection will be unstable. The optimal distance for initial setup is no more than 3-5 meters from the access point, with no significant physical barriers.
WPS method: quick connection without cable
The fastest way to connect HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28w to the network - use technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method allows you to automatically transfer the router password to the printer with the press of a button. You don't need a computer or smartphone, only physical access to both devices.
Locate the wireless button on the printer control panel. Press and hold it for 3-5 seconds until the wireless indicator light starts flashing blue. This means the device is in search mode and ready to pair.
Within 2 minutes of activating the printer's WPS mode, press the WPS button on your router. It's usually located on the back panel and may require holding for a few seconds. After a successful encryption key exchange, the indicator light on the MFP will stop flashing and turn solid blue.
- 📶 Make sure the WPS indicator on your router is lit or blinking before pressing the button.
- ⏱️ The interval between pressing the button on the printer and the router should not exceed 120 seconds.
- 🔒 This method only works if the WPS function is not disabled in the router's security settings.
If the Wi-Fi indicator on the printer continues to blink or remains orange, the connection has not been established. In this case, repeat the procedure, ensuring you press the buttons on both devices within the correct time frame.
Setup via USB cable and software
If the automatic search does not work, the most reliable method is the classic installation via USB cableThis method ensures that the computer "sees" the printer and transmits the exact parameters of your wireless network, including hidden SSIDs and complex passwords.
You'll need a USB 2.0 Type-A to Type-B (printer) cable. Connect one end to your computer and the other to the port on the back panel. M28wDownload the full driver package from the manufacturer's official website, selecting your operating system.
☑️ Installation Preparation Checklist
During installation, the program will ask you about your connection type. Select "Wireless" or "Wi-Fi," even if a cable is connected. The installer will automatically switch your device to the appropriate mode and transfer the network settings. After confirming successful data transfer, the program will prompt you to disconnect the USB cable.
⚠️ Attention: Do not disconnect the USB cable until the installer explicitly asks you to do so. Disconnecting the connection prematurely may result in a network configuration error.
After disconnecting the cable, the Wi-Fi indicator should turn blue. The computer will continue installing drivers over the network. If this doesn't happen, check whether your firewall or antivirus software is blocking the connection to the new device on the local network.
Using the HP Smart mobile app
A modern and convenient way to control your device is through an app. HP Smart, available for iOS and Android. It allows you to set up a printer without a computer, which is especially useful for users of laptops without USB ports or tablets.
First, you need to put the printer into setup mode. To do this, press and hold the wireless button and the cancel button (the cross) simultaneously for 3 seconds. The power indicator will begin flashing, indicating that the printer is in Wi-Fi Direct setup mode.
What is Wi-Fi Direct?
Wi-Fi Direct allows you to connect directly to your printer without using a router. This is useful if the internet is temporarily down but you need to print a document from your phone. In this mode, the printer automatically creates a network.
Launch the app on your smartphone, making sure Bluetooth and location are enabled (this is necessary for finding the device). Tap "Add Printer" and follow the on-screen instructions. The app will automatically prompt you to enter your Wi-Fi password and transfer it to the MFP.
The advantage of this method is that after setup, you gain access to advanced features: scanning to the cloud, checking toner levels, and ordering consumables directly from your phone. The app may also prompt you for a firmware update, which is recommended for stable operation.
| Parameter | Meaning / Description | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi frequency | 2.4 GHz (802.11b/g/n) | Critical |
| Encryption type | WPA2 / WPA3 | High |
| Direct mode | There is support | Average |
| Signal range | Up to 100 m (in open space) | Average |
Diagnosing connection problems
Even with the correct setup, problems may occur. If the Wi-Fi indicator is on HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28w If it's flashing blue, it means the device is in setup mode but not connected. If it's orange, the signal is too weak or the password is incorrect.
A common issue is changing the Wi-Fi password or network name (SSID). Printers can't "guess" new passwords. If you've changed your router or access details, you need to reset the printer's network settings to factory defaults. To do this, press and hold the wireless button and the information (i) button simultaneously for 5 seconds.
It's also worth paying attention to your router's DHCP server. If the address pool runs out of free IP addresses, the printer simply won't be able to obtain its network ID. In this case, rebooting the router often resolves the issue by releasing old leases.
Check if AP Isolation is enabled on your router. This feature prevents devices on the same Wi-Fi network from communicating with each other, making printing from your computer impossible, even if both devices are connected to the same access point.
Printing a network configuration report
For a more thorough diagnosis, it's helpful to print a configuration report. This will show the printer's assigned IP address, signal strength, and the network name it's connected to. This information is essential when manually configuring ports in Windows.
To print a report, press and hold the Resume button (triangle) on the control panel for 5-10 seconds. The printer will output a technical information page. Find the section IPv4 and check the connection status.
Wireless Status: ConnectedSSID: MyHomeNetwork
IP Address: 192.168.1.45
Signal Strength: Good
If the report shows the status as "Disconnected" or the IP address starts with 169.254.x.x, this means the printer hasn't received an address from the router. In this case, you need to reconfigure it or check any router restrictions.
Why doesn't the computer see the printer after setting up Wi-Fi?
The most common problem is that the computer and printer are on different subnets (for example, a guest Wi-Fi network) or a firewall is blocking device discovery. Make sure the "Private Network" profile is selected in Windows network settings, not "Public."
Can the M28w be connected to a 5GHz network?
No, the model has a Wi-Fi module. HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28w The router doesn't physically support the 5 GHz band. It only operates on the 2.4 GHz frequency. You need to use the 2.4 GHz network, even if the router is dual-band.
How do I reset network settings on a printer?
To reset, press and hold the Wireless button and the Cancel button (X) simultaneously for 3 seconds. The indicators will flash, and the Wi-Fi settings will be restored to factory defaults.
Do you need internet access to print via Wi-Fi?
No, internet access is not required. To print, both your computer and printer must be connected to the same router (local network). Internet access is only required for driver updates or cloud printing.