How to connect an MFP to a smartphone via Wi-Fi: 3 working methods + troubleshooting

Wireless printing from your smartphone saves time and eliminates the need to transfer files to your computer. However, the connection MFP to phone via Wi-Fi often causes difficulties: devices don't see each other, the connection drops, or the printer refuses to print. In this article, we'll look at all the current connection methods—from the standard Wi-Fi Direct to cloud services, as well as typical errors that interfere with stable operation.

It is important to understand that the setup algorithm depends on the MFP model, firmware version, and smartphone operating system. For example, Canon PIXMA And HP Smart Tank support various wireless printing protocols, and Android 14 And iOS 17 have differences in the connection menu. We'll look at universal solutions that work in 90% of cases, and also provide recommendations for specific devices.

If you have previously tried to connect the MFP, but encountered errors like "Device not found" or Connection error 0x80070035, in this article you'll find step-by-step instructions on how to fix them. We'll also analyze why some models Xerox or Brother require additional router configuration, and how to do this without calling a technician.

1. Preparing the MFP and smartphone for connection

Before setting up a connection, make sure both devices meet the minimum requirements. The MFP must support wireless protocols - this is indicated in the technical specifications (look for the items Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, AirPrint or Mopria). Older models (manufactured before 2015) may require an external adapter.

On your smartphone, check:

• 📱 OS version: Android 8.0+ or iOS 11+ (for stable operation with most MFPs).
• 🔄 Firmware updates: come in Settings → About device → Software update.
• 📶 Wi-Fi module: turn it on and make sure that your smartphone is connected to the same network as the MFP (if you are using a router).

For Android- it is recommended to install the official application of the MFP manufacturer (for example, HP Smart, Canon PRINT or Epson iPrint). IN App Store And Google Play There are universal utilities like Mopria Print Service, but they may not support advanced features (scanning, fax).

⚠️ AttentionIf your MFP was previously connected to a different network, reset the network settings to factory defaults. To do this, hold down the button Wi-Fi (or Net) on the control panel for 10-15 seconds until the indicator light flashes. The reset method may vary; check your model's instructions for details.

2. Method 1: Connecting via Wi-Fi Direct (without a router)

Wi-Fi Direct — is a technology that allows devices to connect directly, without the need for a router. It's ideal for printing on the go or in an office without access to a public network. Most modern MFPs (e.g., HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e or Epson EcoTank ET-2800) support this mode.

Instructions for Android:

1. Activate on the MFP Wi-Fi Direct (usually on the menu Network → Wireless). Remember the network name and password (for example, DIRECT-xx-HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e).
2. On your smartphone, open Settings → Wi-Fi and connect to the MFP network.
3. Install the manufacturer's application (for example, HP Smart) and follow the setup wizard.

For iPhone the algorithm is a little more complicated because iOS does not support Wi-Fi Direct directly. Instead, use:

• 🔗 AirPrint (if the MFP is compatible, check on Apple's official website).
• 📱 Manufacturer's application (For example, Epson Print Enabler For Epson).

⚠️ Attention: When connecting via Wi-Fi Direct Your smartphone will lose internet access. To print and surf the web at the same time, use access point mode (see Method 3).

Enable Wi-Fi Direct on the MFP

Remember the network name and password

Connect your smartphone to the MFP network

Install the manufacturer's application

Check iOS Compatibility (for iPhone)-->

3. Method 2: Connecting via a home router

If you have a router, this method will ensure a stable connection and access to the MFP from multiple devices simultaneously. The main requirement is the printer and smartphone must be on the same networkFor example, if the router distributes the network MyHomeWiFi_5G, both devices must connect to it.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. On the MFP, go to the menu Settings → Network → Wireless and select your Wi-Fi network. Enter the password.
2. Wait for the indicator Wi-Fi on the printer will stop blinking (status Connected).
3. On smartphone:
• For Android: Open the manufacturer's application (eg. Canon PRINT) and select Add a printer.
• For iOS: go to Settings → Printers and Scanners (if supported AirPrint).

If the MFP is not detected, check:

• 🔌 Router power supply: Reboot it by turning it off for 30 seconds.
• 📡 Network range: Some MFPs do not work on the network 5 GHz (switch the router to 2.4 GHz).
• 🔒 MAC address filtering: in the router settings (192.168.1.1) add the printer's MAC address to the list of allowed ones.

4. Method 3: Using your smartphone as a hotspot

This method is suitable if you don't have a router but need to print a document from your phone. The smartphone will share the internet connection, and the MFP will connect to its network. Minus: while printing, the mobile Internet on the phone will not work (if not supported Dual Band).

How to set up:

1. Activate on your smartphone Modem mode (Android) or Access point mode (iOS).
2. Remember the network name and password (for example, iPhone_123 → qwerty123).
3. On the MFP, connect to this network through the menu Wi-Fi.
4. Install the manufacturer's application and add the printer manually (select Local connection).

For iPhone there is a nuance: AirPrint It doesn't work via a hotspot, so you'll have to use a proprietary app (like Brother iPrint&Scan). On Android This usually doesn't cause any problems, but if printing is slow, turn off background data sync in your phone's settings.

⚠️ AttentionSome mobile operators block internet tethering without an additional option. If the hotspot doesn't turn on, contact support or check your plan.

Why won't my MFP connect to my iPhone's hotspot?

The iPhone uses the default protocol WPA3, which is not supported by many MFPs. To fix this, go to Settings → Hotspot → Wi-Fi Password and select the security type WPA2 (if available). If there is no option, try connecting via a USB cable with an adapter. Lightning-to-USB (for older printer models).

5. Cloud services: printing via Google Cloud Print and alternatives

Google Cloud Print officially closed on December 31, 2020, but many MFPs still support alternative cloud solutions. For example, HP offers HP Smart App with cloud printing, and Canon — Canon PRINT BusinessThese services allow you to print documents remotely, even if you're not on the same network as the printer.

How to set up cloud printing using an example HP Smart:

1. Install the app and register an account HP.
2. Add MFP via Add a printer → Cloud printer.
3. Confirm the connection on the device itself (you may need to enter a code from the MFP screen).
4. Send documents to print from anywhere using the app.

Benefits of cloud printing:

• ☁️ Print from any device connected to the Internet.
• 📄 Format support PDF, DOCX, JPEG without conversion.
• 🔄 Automatic driver updates via the cloud.

Flaws:

• 🚫 Dependence on a stable internet connection.
• 🔒 Risk of data leakage when transmitting through third-party servers (use only official apps).

6. Solving common errors

Even after proper setup, glitches may still occur. Let's look at common errors and how to fix them:

Error: "Device not found" (Android/iOS)

• 🔍 Check if it's enabled Wi-Fi on the MFP (the indicator should light green or blue).
• 🔄 Restart your printer and smartphone.
• 📱 Remove the printer from the list of devices in the app and add it again.

Error: "Connection Error 0x80070035" (Windows when sharing)

This error occurs if your smartphone and MFP are connected to different networks, or a firewall is blocking the connection. Solution:

1. Disable your antivirus for 5 minutes and try connecting again.
2. In the router settings (192.168.1.1) turn it off AP Isolation (isolation of clients).

Error: Printing is slow or stops

• 📶 Check the Wi-Fi signal strength on the MFP (it should be at least 70%).
• 🔌 Switch the router to a channel 2.4 GHz (less susceptible to interference).
• 🖨️ Reduce the print resolution in the document settings (e.g. 600 dpi to 300 dpi).

⚠️ AttentionIf the MFP stops connecting after updating the firmware, perform a factory reset. To do this, press and hold the button Stop/Reset (or Menu) for 10 seconds. The method may vary; check your model's instructions for details.

7. Wireless Printing Security

Connecting your MFP to Wi-Fi exposes you to potential hacker attacks. To protect your data:

• 🔐 Change the default administrator password on the MFP (usually it is admin/1234).
• 🌐 Disable it in your router settings WPS - This protocol is vulnerable to brute force attacks.
• 📡 Hide your network SSID or use MAC filtering (allow connection only for known devices).
• 🔄 Regularly update your MFP firmware using the official software.

For corporate use, we recommend:

• 🏢 Set up VLAN for MFPs (isolate printers from the main network).
• 🔑 Use IPSec or VPN for remote printing.
• 📋 Keep a print log (feature available in HP JetAdvantage or Xerox CentreWare).

If the MFP supports Secure Print (Secure Print), enable this feature. It requires entering a PIN on the printer's control panel before printing a document, preventing unauthorized access to confidential data.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about connecting an MFP to a smartphone

Is it possible to connect an old MFP (2010–2015) to a smartphone via Wi-Fi?

Yes, but additional devices may be required:

• 🔌 Wi-Fi adapter (For example, TP-Link TL-WPS510U for printers with USB port).
• 🖥️ Intermediary-PC: connect the MFP to the computer and enable printer sharing via Control Panel → Devices and Printers (For Windows).

Before purchasing an adapter, check compatibility with your MFP model on the manufacturer's website.

Why doesn't my iPhone see the MFP via Wi-Fi, even though my Android device connects?

Possible reasons:

• iOS requires support AirPrint or a proprietary application (for example, Epson iPrint).
• The MFP uses an outdated protocol WEP, which iPhone does not support (switch the router to WPA2).
• Client isolation is enabled in the router settings (AP Isolation).

Solution: update the firmware of the MFP or connect via USB-OTG (For iPhone I need an adapter Lightning-to-USB).

How to print from a phone to an MFP via mobile Internet (3G/4G)?

There are two options:

1. Cloud printing: use services like HP Smart or Google Drive (upload the file and send it to print remotely).
2. VPN: If the MFP is connected to a router at home, configure it VPN server on the router and connect to your home network via OpenVPN or WireGuard.

The second method requires a router with support VPN (For example, ASUS RT-AX88U or Keenetic).

My MFP connects to Wi-Fi but won't print from my smartphone. What should I do?

Check the following:

• 📄 File format: Some MFPs do not support PDF/A or DOCX with macros. Try converting the document to JPEG.
• 🖨️ Print queue: the MFP may be in the mode Pause or Offline. Click Cancel and restart the task.
• 🔧 Drivers: Update your printer profile in the manufacturer's app.

Is it possible to connect multiple smartphones to one MFP at the same time?

Yes, if:

• The MFP is connected to the router (and not through Wi-Fi Direct).
• All smartphones are on the same network.
• The MFP is not in the mode One user (check in security settings).

For corporate MFPs (e.g. Xerox VersaLink) may require adjustment LDAP or Active Directory for access control.