Switching to wireless printing is not just a convenience, but a necessity in the modern office or home office. Models HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28 And M31 These are compact solutions that fit perfectly in limited spaces, but they require proper network configuration for stable operation. Many users encounter difficulties during initial setup, as standard installation methods often require a USB connection, which further limits the device's mobility.
Configuration process WiFi connections These devices have their own nuances that distinguish them from their larger office counterparts. Unlike touchscreen models, they are controlled via a combination of buttons and indicators, which can be confusing for beginners. However, with the right steps, you can set up printing from any device on your network in minutes, without the hassle of wires.
In this article, we will examine in detail all the available methods for activating wireless mode, including the use of technology WPS and a branded application HP SmartYou'll learn how to avoid common driver errors and ensure a stable signal even in noisy environments. Proper setup at the outset will save you hours of troubleshooting later.
Preparing equipment and checking network parameters
Before proceeding with the software part, you need to make sure that the device is physically ready for operation. HP printer It should be installed in an area with a strong signal from your router. Walls, especially load-bearing or metal-reinforced ones, can significantly weaken the signal, so it's best to place the MFP in an open area rather than in closed niches within furniture.
Frequency range compatibility is critical. Models of the series M28 And M31 support only the standard 802.11b/g/n, which means working exclusively in the range 2.4 GHzIf your router only broadcasts at 5 GHz or uses "5 GHz only" mode, your device simply won't see your home network.
⚠️ Attention: Dual-band routers often feature a "Band Steering" feature that combines the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks under a single name. If the printer isn't connecting, try temporarily separating the networks in the router settings by giving them different names (SSIDs) and connecting the device to the 2.4 GHz network.
Also make sure that the following are installed on your device: original cartridges or high-quality compatible alternatives. HP printers have protection against empty or unrecognized cartridges and may enter standby mode or display an error, blocking network setup until the toner issue is resolved.
Quick setup method via WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)
The fastest way to establish a connection between a router and a printer is using WPS technology. This method automatically transfers network parameters (SSID and password), eliminating the need to manually enter a long and complex security key on a device without a display.
First, make sure your router supports the feature. WPS (usually indicated by a two-arrow icon or the label WPS). On the front panel of the printer HP LaserJet Pro MFP Find the button with an antenna or wireless network icon. Press and hold it for 3-5 seconds until the power light starts flashing.
Within two minutes of activating the search mode on the printer, press the button WPS On your router. If your router doesn't have a physical button, you can activate this feature through the router's web interface. The wireless indicator on the printer should stop blinking and turn solid blue, indicating a successful connection.
Sometimes automatic detection may fail due to router security settings. In such cases, the system may require manual intervention or an alternative driver installation method.
Setup via the HP Smart app and mobile devices
A modern approach to peripheral management involves the use of cloud services and mobile applications. The program HP Smart Available for iOS, Android, Windows 10/11, and macOS, it not only helps you set up WiFi but also provides access to scanning, cartridge ordering, and diagnostics.
The process begins by downloading the app from the official store (App Store, Google Play, or Microsoft Store). After installation, launch the program and click the "Add Printer" button or the plus icon. The app will begin searching for devices on the local network and Bluetooth devices, if enabled.
If the printer is found, follow the on-screen instructions. You will be prompted to select your WiFi network from the list and enter the password. At this point, the app will transfer data to the printer. For models M28/M31 It is important that at this point the smartphone and printer are on the same network or connected via Bluetooth for initial pairing.
Particular attention should be paid to access rights. Application HP Smart You will need permission to access the local network and geolocation (for Android), which is necessary for the correct search of devices in the list of available WiFi networks.
Classic Method: Installing Drivers with a USB Cable
The most reliable, albeit less convenient, method remains connecting via USB cable and then reconfiguring to WiFi. This method is recommended if automatic methods fail or if the network is hidden (SSID is hidden).
First, connect the printer to your computer via USB and turn it on. Download the full driver and software package from the official HP website. When launching the installer, select "Wireless" or "Network" for the connection type, even if the device is currently connected via cable.
☑️ Preparing to install drivers
During installation, the program will detect the device and prompt you to switch to a wireless connection. You'll be prompted to select your WiFi network and enter the password. After the settings are successfully transferred, the installer will prompt you to disconnect the USB cable. From this point on, the printer will operate over the network.
This method is good because the drivers are registered in the system correctly, creating the correct print port (usually Standard TCP/IP Port), which eliminates many problems with the print queue in the future.
Table of indicators and their meanings
Understanding the control panel indicator lights HP LaserJet Pro MFP Allows you to quickly diagnose the device's status without connecting to a computer. Various blinking patterns indicate specific setup stages or errors.
| Indicator | State | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Wireless communication | It's blue | Successful connection to WiFi network |
| Wireless communication | Flashing blue | Setup mode or network search |
| Wireless communication | Turned off | Wireless connection is disabled |
| Attention (!) | It's glowing orange | Error (out of paper, cover open, no cartridge) |
| Nutrition | Flashing green | Power saving mode or data processing |
If the Attention light remains on, check the paper tray and rear cover. Often, the printer cannot connect to the network if it is experiencing a critical hardware error.
To reset network settings to factory defaults (if you've changed the router or password), press and hold the Wireless button and the Cancel button (X) simultaneously for 3 seconds. The Power and Attention lights will flash to confirm the reset.
Solving common connection problems
Even if you follow all the instructions, conflicts may still occur. One common issue is when the printer "sees" the network but won't connect. This is often due to the encryption type. Make sure the appropriate security standard is set on your router. WPA2-Personal (AES)Older encryption methods (WEP) or mixed modes may not be supported by the printer firmware.
⚠️ Attention: If you're using a corporate network with login and password authentication (802.1x), connecting the printer using standard methods won't work. You'll need to create a separate guest network or use MAC filtering to allow access to the device.
Another common situation is when the router changes the printer's IP address. If your computer "loses" the printer, check if the DHCP address has changed. For office printing, it's best to reserve a static IP address for the MFP in the router settings, binding it to the device's MAC address.
What should I do if the printer prints, but the scanner does not work over the network?
The WiFi scanning (Scan to PC) feature requires the full HP driver package, not just the basic print drivers. Reinstall the software, selecting the "Network Scanning" option.
It's also worth checking your Windows firewall or antivirus. They may be blocking incoming connections from the scanner. Add the program HP Scan or the entire HP package in the firewall exceptions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can HP M28/M31 be connected to a 5GHz network?
No, this printer series is equipped with a WiFi module that only operates in the 2.4 GHz band. To connect, ensure your router is broadcasting a 2.4 GHz network and that you are attempting to connect to that network.
How to find out the printer's IP address after connection?
Press and hold the wireless button on the printer for 5 seconds. The device will print a network configuration report, which will show the current IP address, MAC address, and connection status.
Does this printer support WiFi Direct?
Yes, series HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28/M31 Supports WiFi Direct technology. This allows you to print directly from your phone or laptop without connecting to your main router. This mode is enabled through the HP Smart app or by holding the corresponding button.
The printer disappeared from the network after rebooting the router.
It's possible that the router assigned a new IP address, but the computer still remembers the old one. Try removing the device from the printer list in Windows/macOS and then adding it again. To prevent this problem, configure a static IP address on the router.