Modern offices and home workstations are no longer imaginable without network peripherals, and the model HP LaserJet Pro M1217nfw It's one of the most popular solutions in this segment. Wireless connectivity eliminates the need for cables, providing printing access from any device within the router's range. However, initial setup can often be challenging for users unfamiliar with the menu system. HP.
The wireless activation process may vary depending on your computer's operating system and the firmware version of your device. In some cases, automatic setup may fail, requiring manual intervention and verification of network settings. We'll cover all the current methods to help you quickly establish a stable connection.
Don't be alarmed if the device doesn't detect the router the first time—this is a common issue related to security protocols or frequency ranges. Carefully following the steps will help avoid most common errors that occur during initial hardware configuration.
Preparatory stage before setting up a wireless network
Before you begin the actual setup, you need to make sure that your network equipment is functioning correctly. Make sure that Wi-Fi router The device must be turned on, broadcasting internet, and within the printer's line of sight. The distance between the devices should not exceed reasonable limits, as reinforced concrete walls can significantly weaken the signal.
It is important to know the name of your wireless network in advance (SSID) and a password to connect. If you're using a hidden network or complex corporate encryption protocols, the process may require additional steps. For standard home use, knowing the Wi-Fi password is sufficient.
⚠️ Attention: The HP 1217 printer only supports the 2.4 GHz frequency band. If your router broadcasts both 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz networks under the same name, conflicts may occur. We recommend temporarily separating the networks in your router settings or forcing the device to connect to the 2.4 GHz band.
It's also worth preparing the printer itself: plug it in and wait for the warm-up cycle to complete. Make sure there's paper in the tray and the cartridges are installed correctly. The device should be in ready mode, as indicated by the indicator light on the control panel.
Using a USB cable for initial configuration
The most reliable setup method, which guarantees a successful connection even if there are driver issues, is using a USB cable. For this, you'll need a Type AB cable (standard printer cable), which is usually included in the kit but may require an additional one. Connect the cable to the computer and printer, then run the driver installation file downloaded from the official website.
During the installation process, the program will prompt you to select a connection type. You need to select the option Wireless connection, even though the cable is already inserted. The installer automatically retrieves the network settings from the operating system and transfers them to the printer via the USB port.
☑️ Check before USB setup
Once the program reports successful transfer of parameters, you can disconnect the cable. The printer will automatically reconnect to the network over the air. This method is especially useful if you don't know the Wi-Fi password or it's too complex to enter through the device's control panel.
If automatic data transfer does not occur, check whether your antivirus or firewall is blocking the installer. Sometimes it may be necessary to temporarily disable protection or add an exception to the installation process. HP Smart.
Setting up Wi-Fi Direct and the WPS button
Many modern routers support the technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup), which allows you to connect devices without entering a password. On the HP 1217 printer, locate the button with an antenna or wireless network icon. Press and hold it for a few seconds until the light starts blinking.
Then, within two minutes, press the same button on your router. The devices should find each other and automatically exchange encryption keys. The Wi-Fi indicator on the printer will stop blinking and turn solid, indicating a successful connection.
An alternative option is to use the function Wi-Fi DirectThis mode allows you to print directly from a mobile device without connecting to a public network. The printer creates its own access point, which you connect to like regular Wi-Fi.
What is the difference between Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct?
Wi-Fi connects the printer to the router, allowing all devices on the network to print. Wi-Fi Direct creates a direct connection between the phone and the printer, bypassing the router. This is convenient for quickly printing photos from your phone, but it limits access from other users.
However, it's worth remembering that constantly using Direct mode can interfere with the primary connection if there are multiple networks nearby. Use this mode occasionally, when you need to quickly print a document from your phone while visiting someone or in an office without access to the primary network.
Manual setup via the printer control panel
If automatic methods don't work, you can enter network settings manually through the device's menu. On the control panel, press the settings button (wrench icon) or the wireless button. Use the navigation arrows to navigate to Network Setup or Network setup.
In the menu that opens, select Wireless Setup Wizard (Wireless Setup Wizard). The printer will begin searching for available networks. Find your router's name (SSID) in the list and click OK. If the network is hidden, select the option to enter the name manually.
Next, you'll be asked to enter a password. This can be difficult to do using the navigation buttons, so be patient. Use the arrow keys to select characters and the OK button to confirm. After entering the password, the printer will attempt to connect.
| Indicator | State | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Blue (flashing) | Network search | The printer is trying to find the router or is in the process of connecting. |
| Blue (on) | Connected | Wi-Fi connection successful, you can print |
| Turned off | No connection | The wireless module is disabled or there is a configuration error. |
| Orange | Error | Incorrect password or weak signal |
After a successful connection, we recommend printing a network configuration report to find the device's IP address. This will be useful for further diagnostics or installing drivers on other computers on the network.
Installing drivers and software
Once the printer is connected to the network, you need to install the software on your computer. Modern operating systems, such as Windows 10 and 11, often automatically detect network printers. However, for full functionality of all MFP functions, including scanning, a full driver package is required.
Go to the official support website HP and enter your device model. Download the package HP Smart or the Full Feature Software. Run the installer and select "Set up a new printer."
The program will find the device on the network by its IP address. If the automatic search fails, select the "Printer not found" option and enter the IP address manually (you can find it in the configuration report or through the router menu).
During installation, you may be offered additional services, such as HP Instant Ink. You can decline these if you use refillable cartridges or don't require a subscription. Just make sure you have the scanning and device management components installed.
Solving common connection problems
Users often encounter a situation where a printer is visible on the network but doesn't print, or the device status changes to "Offline." First, check whether the computer and printer are on the same subnet. This is especially true for offices, where there may be multiple VLANs or guest networks.
Another common issue is the printer's IP address changing after a router reboot if a static address hasn't been reserved. In this case, the computer continues to send jobs to the old address. The solution is to configure a static IP address through the printer's web interface (EWS).
⚠️ Attention: Firmware and router interfaces are subject to update. If menu items differ from those described, please consult the latest documentation on the manufacturer's website or in the help section of your router.
You should also check Windows Firewall or third-party antivirus software, which may be blocking printing ports. Try temporarily disabling them to test. If printing works, add the printer app to the exceptions list.
If all else fails, reset the printer's network settings to factory defaults. This is usually done by simultaneously pressing the wireless button and the cancel button (the cross) for a few seconds. After the reset, you'll need to repeat the setup process.
Why doesn't the printer see the 5 GHz network?
The HP 1217nfw model is equipped with an 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi module, which operates exclusively in the 2.4 GHz band. It physically cannot see or connect to 5 GHz networks. You need to ensure that the 2.4 GHz network is broadcast on your router.
How to find out the IP address of a printer without printing a report?
Press the wireless button on the device's panel. A signal icon and possibly an IP address should appear on the screen. You can also find the address in the list of connected clients in your router's web interface (LAN or DHCP Client List section).
Is it possible to connect a printer to a hidden network?
Yes, this is possible, but only through manual configuration via the printer menu (Wireless Setup Wizard -> Enter New SSID). Automatic methods via USB or WPS will not work in this case, as the printer will not be able to detect the hidden network name.