Setting up a wireless connection for office equipment often turns into a challenge, especially when it comes to entry-level laser MFPs. Model HP Laser MFP M28w While it's one of the most popular devices in its class, its initial setup process has a number of unique features. Many users encounter difficulties during the device discovery process on the network or when attempting to synchronize drivers.
Unlike larger models, this compact device doesn't have a touchscreen, limiting password entry options directly on the device. Instead, a combination of buttons and software is used. Following the correct sequence of steps will help avoid common errors and save time. In this guide, we'll cover all the current methods for activating wireless mode.
It's worth noting that the stability of the device directly depends on the quality of the router signal and the correctness of the security protocols. Modern encryption standards can block the connection of older printer modules if the appropriate settings are not configured. Therefore, before beginning work, make sure you have access to your router settings and know the network password.
Preparing equipment and resetting network settings
Before attempting to connect your computer and printer, ensure the device itself is ready for wireless operation. MFPs are often sold with factory settings configured for a wired USB connection. If the device was previously used elsewhere or the settings have been reset, a forced network reset will be required.
First, plug the device into a power outlet and wait for the self-test to complete. The power indicator should be solid. Now, look at the control panel: there's a button with a picture of a wireless antenna. This is the activation button. Wi-Fi Direct and setup mode.
⚠️ Note: If the WiFi indicator is flashing blue, the device is in pairing mode. If it is constantly on or off, you need to reset the network settings by holding the wireless button and the cancel button (the cross) simultaneously for 5 seconds.
After the reset, the lights should start flashing, indicating that it's ready to search for a network. Make sure your router is turned on and broadcasting a 2.4 GHz signal, as this model requires it. HP Laser MFP M28w does not support the 5 GHz standard. This is a critical point that is often overlooked by dual-band router owners.
☑️ Ready to connect
Using WPS technology for quick setup
The easiest way to connect a device to a home network is to use technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method allows you to automatically transfer the password, eliminating the need to manually enter it on your computer or phone. However, to implement this method, your router must support this feature and have a dedicated physical button.
Press the WPS button on your router. You typically have about two minutes to activate the printer's response after that. On the control panel HP Laser MFP M28w Press and hold the wireless button until the indicator light starts flashing. The device will automatically find the router and establish a secure connection.
If the process is successful, the WiFi indicator on the control panel will stop blinking and turn solid blue. This means the IP address has been acquired and the device is visible on the local network. If the indicator continues blinking or turns orange, the connection has not been established.
What to do if there is no WPS button on the router?
If there's no physical button, you can activate the feature through the router's web interface. Go to the WiFi security settings and find the WPS option, then click "Add device" or a similar command in the interface.
It's worth remembering that some internet service providers disable WPS on their devices for security reasons. In this case, this method won't work, and you'll have to use software installation via a computer or mobile app.
Setup via a computer using HP Smart
The classic and most reliable method involves using a PC or laptop running Windows or macOS. To do this, you'll need to download the official app. HP SmartIt's available in the Microsoft Store or on the manufacturer's official website. The program will automatically detect the printer and guide you through all the configuration steps.
Launch the app and click the Add New Printer button. The utility will begin searching for devices on the network. If HP Laser MFP M28w If your device is already connected to the router (for example, via WPS), it will appear in the list. If not, the program will offer to temporarily connect it via USB cable to transfer network settings.
During installation, the program may request permission to change firewall settings. This is necessary for the scanner to function properly and monitor cartridge status. After the drivers and utilities are installed, you can disconnect the USB cable, and printing will be done wirelessly.
| WiFi indicator status | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Turned off | The wireless network is disabled | Press the WiFi button |
| Flashing blue | Setup mode / Connection error | Run the setup wizard |
| It's blue | Successful connection to the network | You can print |
| It's glowing orange | Problem with driver or signal | Check the distance to the router |
Connecting a smartphone via Wi-Fi Direct
Function Wi-Fi Direct Allows you to connect mobile devices directly to the printer without using a home router. This is especially convenient when you need to urgently print a document from your phone while visiting someone or at the office, where network access is limited. In this mode, the MFP itself becomes an access point.
To activate this mode, press the wireless button on the panel HP Laser MFP M28wIf the indicator starts blinking, the mode is active. On your smartphone, open the list of available WiFi networks. You'll see a network with a name containing "HP-Setup" or your device model.
A password is required to connect. By default, it's often listed on a sticker on the back of the device or in the manual, but newer firmware versions can generate the password dynamically. You can find it by printing a configuration report: press and hold the continue button (triangle) until the indicators flash, then press it again to print.
It's important to understand that when connecting via Wi-Fi Direct, your phone may lose internet access as it switches to the printer's network. Some smartphones allow you to connect to two Wi-Fi networks simultaneously, but this depends on the phone model and operating system version.
Installing drivers and software
While basic printing often works automatically thanks to the drivers built into the system, for full functionality HP Laser MFP M28w Installation of the full software package is required. This will provide access to scanning functions, toner level monitoring, and toner saving settings.
Drivers should be downloaded exclusively from the official HP support website. Enter your device model in the search bar and select your operating system. Pay attention to the system's bit depth (32-bit or 64-bit), although modern installers are usually universal.
⚠️ Warning: Avoid using third-party driver aggregator websites. They may contain outdated software versions or malicious code that will disrupt your computer's network ports.
During installation, select the "Wireless" connection type. If the program doesn't find the device, it will offer a temporary USB connection. Follow the on-screen instructions, and after the WiFi settings are transferred, you can remove the cable. After restarting your computer, check the device's status in the "Devices and Printers" control panel.
Troubleshooting and Common Mistakes
Even with proper configuration, situations may arise where the printer becomes unavailable. Most often, the problem stems from a change in the device's IP address (if the router doesn't reserve a static address) or from security protocol updates.
If the computer sees the printer but can't print, try clearing the print queue. Go to the printer properties and select "Clear Queue." Sometimes, completely removing the device from the list and re-adding it through the setup wizard helps.
It's also worth checking whether your antivirus or firewall is blocking the connection. Certain ports must be open for the MFP's network functions to function. Temporarily disable your protection to test this, but don't forget to re-enable it.
5 GHz frequency problem
If your router broadcasts 2.4 and 5 GHz networks under the same SSID, the printer may be attempting to connect to an unsupported frequency. Solution: Separate the networks in your router settings by giving them different names, such as Home_2G and Home_5G.
Why doesn't the HP M28w printer detect the WiFi network?
The most common cause is incompatible security standards. The device may not support WPA3. Try setting your router to mixed WPA2/WPA3 mode or temporarily switching to WPA2. Also, check if MAC address filtering is enabled.
How to find out the IP address of a printer?
Print a network configuration report while holding down the Resume button. The report will include an IPv4 Address. You can also view the address in the HP Smart app under Device Information.
Is it possible to connect HP M28w to a hidden network?
Automatic connection to hidden networks (Hidden SSID) via the WPS button is not possible. You must use the USB cable setup method and the HP Smart app, where you can manually enter the network name.
What to do if the orange indicator is on?
An orange color usually indicates a cartridge error or paper jam. Check to see if the cartridge is installed correctly, all transport tape has been removed, and there are no foreign objects in the paper path.