Setting up wireless printing for a multifunction printer HP LaserJet Pro MFP M132nw often becomes a key step in organizing a modern workspace, freeing users from unnecessary cables. This compact laser MFP supports the standard 802.11b/g/n, allowing it to be placed anywhere in an office or apartment where there is network coverage. Integrating the device into a local network doesn't require extensive IT expertise, but it does have its own technical nuances, which, if ignored, can lead to communication errors.
There are several proven methods for activating a Wi-Fi module, each suitable for different use cases and operating system versions. You can use automatic configuration via the WPS button on the router, manually enter parameters through the printer's control panel, or use a temporary USB connection for initial configuration. Understanding the differences between these methods will help you choose the fastest and most reliable option for your specific situation.
In this article, we'll cover each connection step in detail, focusing on installing drivers correctly and setting up a static IP address for stable operation. It is critical to ensure that your router operates at 2.4 GHz, as this model does not support modern 5 GHz networks. Following the steps below will ensure quick and seamless integration of your printer into your ecosystem.
Preparatory stage and compatibility check
Before you begin the actual setup, you need to make sure that your network equipment meets the technical requirements of the device. Model M132nw is a fairly proven solution, but it is sensitive to the encryption type and frequency range. Make sure your router has a signal within the range 2.4 GHz, since the newer 5 GHz standards are not supported by this printer, and it simply will not see the network.
It's also a good idea to prepare your network access details in advance. You'll need to know the exact network name (SSID) and password. If the password contains special characters or is written in complex capitalization, it's best to write it down in advance to avoid errors when entering it using the printer's control panel buttons.
⚠️ Important: Make sure that Client Isolation is not enabled on your router, otherwise your computer will not be able to send a print job even if both devices are connected to the same network.
It is recommended to temporarily disable address layout (MAC filtering) during setup to prevent the new device from being blocked by the router's security rules. After a successful connection, you can manually add the printer's address to the whitelist.
WPS method: Quick connection without entering a password
The easiest way to integrate a device into a network is to use technology Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS). This method allows you to transfer security settings automatically, eliminating the need to manually enter a complex password through the printer's limited interface. First, make sure your router supports this feature and that it's enabled.
Press the WPS button on your router and hold it for a few seconds until the security light starts flashing. Immediately afterward, go to the printer. HP LaserJet Pro MFP M132nw and press the wireless button on the control panel. If the Wi-Fi indicator starts flashing blue, this means the search and pairing process is in progress.
- 📶 Press the WPS button on the router and hold it for 2-3 seconds.
- 🖨️ On the printer, press the wireless button (antenna icon).
- ⏳ Wait until the Wi-Fi indicator stops flashing and turns solid blue.
- ✅ Check the connection report by printing the configuration page.
If the indicator continues to flash or turns orange, pairing was unsuccessful. This may occur if you failed to activate the printer's search mode within the allotted time (usually 2 minutes). In this case, you'll need to repeat the process.
Manual Wi-Fi setup via the control panel
If the automatic method doesn't work or your router doesn't support WPS, you'll have to use the device's menu. This method is more labor-intensive, as it requires navigating the menu using just two buttons, but it gives you full control over the process. First, you'll need to access the network settings menu.
Click the settings button (gear icon) on the control panel. Use the left and right arrows to find the item Network Setup or Network setup and click OK. Next, select Wireless Setup Wizard (Wireless Setup Wizard). The printer will begin searching for available networks.
Menu -> Network Setup -> Wireless Setup Wizard -> Select SSIDOnce the list of networks is found, select your router's name. If the network is hidden, choose the option to enter the name manually. After selecting the network, the device will ask for a password. Use the arrow keys to navigate through the characters and press OK to confirm each character. Be careful with the case of the letters.
| Indicator | Color | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | Blue (on) | Successful connection to the network |
| Wi-Fi | Blue (flashing) | Searching for a network or transferring data |
| Wi-Fi | Orange | Connection error or weak signal |
| Wi-Fi | Turned off | The wireless network is disabled |
After successfully entering the password, the printer will attempt to connect to the router. If all data is entered correctly, the indicator light will turn blue. If an error occurs, the device will prompt you to re-enter the password or return to the previous menu.
What if your network is not on the list?
If your network isn't listed, it may be operating in 5 GHz mode or hidden. Try manually entering the SSID through the "Wireless Setup Wizard" menu or check your router settings to ensure SSID broadcasting is enabled.
Installing drivers and software from the official website
Once the printer is connected to the network, you need to install the software on your computer so that the operating system can properly communicate with the device. Do not use the included disks, as the driver versions on them are often outdated. Download the latest package. HP Smart or the full driver from the official support site.
Run the installer and select the "Wireless" or "Network" connection type. The program will automatically scan the network and should find your device by its IP address. If the printer M132nw was configured correctly in the previous steps, it will appear in the list of available devices.
- 💻 Go to the official HP support website.
- 🔍 Enter the model
LaserJet Pro MFP M132nwin the search field. - 📥 Download the full package of drivers and software for your OS.
- 🚀 Run the installation and follow the wizard instructions.
During the installation process, you may need to temporarily connect the printer to your computer via a USB cable. This is necessary so the installer can transfer the network settings directly. Once the configuration is complete, you can disconnect the cable.
⚠️ Important: When installing drivers, your antivirus or Windows Firewall may request permission to access the network. Be sure to select "Allow access" for both private and public networks, otherwise printing will be unavailable.
☑️ Checking driver installation
Setting up a static IP address for stability
One common problem in corporate and home networks is the printer's dynamic IP address being changed by the router. If the address changes, the computer will lose connection to the device, making printing impossible. To avoid this, it's recommended to assign a network connection to the printer. static IP address.
To do this, open the printer's Embedded Web Server (EWS). Enter the device's current IP address into the browser's address bar. Go to the tab. Networking (Network), then select IPv4Here you need to switch the mode from DHCP to Manual IP (Manual).
Enter an address that is outside your router's DHCP range but in the same subnet. For example, if your router assigns addresses from 192.168.1.100 to 192.168.1.200, set the printer's address to 192.168.1.50. Copy the subnet mask and default gateway from your current settings.
After applying the settings, the printer may reboot the network module. You will need to re-enter the new static address in your browser to access the web interface. You may also need to update the printer port in the device properties on your computer to reflect the new IP address.
Diagnostics and problem solving
Even with proper settings, printing may fail or the device may appear offline. This is often due to mismatched subnets or blocked ports. Make sure your computer and printer are on the same subnet (the first three digits of the IP address must match).
If the printer is not responding, try pinging its IP address. Open a command prompt (cmd) and enter ping 192.168.x.x (substituting the printer address). If there is no response, check your firewall settings or try rebooting both the router and the printer.
In some cases, resetting the printer's network settings to factory defaults can help. To do this, go to the network menu and select Restore Network DefaultsAfter this, you will have to go through the Wi-Fi setup procedure again.
Why can't my computer see my printer on the network?
The most common issue is that the computer is connected to a guest Wi-Fi network and the printer is connected to the main network, or vice versa. Network discovery may also be disabled in Windows. Check the network profile (Private/Public) and ensure device discovery is enabled.
Can a printer be connected to 5GHz Wi-Fi?
No, model HP LaserJet Pro MFP M132nw The device is equipped with a Wi-Fi module that only supports the 802.11b/g/n standard at a frequency of 2.4 GHz. Connecting to a 5 GHz network is technically impossible.
How to find out the IP address of a printer?
Press the Report button (information sheet icon) on the control panel or hold down the Wireless button and the Cancel button at the same time to print a network configuration page that shows the current IP address.
What to do if the orange Wi-Fi light is on?
Orange indicates a connection error. Check the password entered correctly, the signal strength at the printer's location, and ensure that MAC address spoofing isn't blocking the device.