Setting up wireless printing in a home office or small workspace is a task that requires a precise approach, especially when it comes to compact and popular models. HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28w or M31wDespite their size, these devices offer powerful functionality, but initial Wi-Fi setup can be challenging for the untrained user. Proper network configuration allows you to print documents from any device within the router's coverage area, without being tied to physical cables.
The process of pairing a laptop and printer depends on your computer's operating system and the firmware version of the printer itself. Modern automation methods make life much easier, but the classic method using WPS or manually setting an IP address remains effective in case of problems. In this guide, we'll cover every step in detail, from preparing the equipment to fine-tuning network security settings.
It's important to understand that connection stability directly depends on the signal quality of your router and the absence of IP address conflicts on your local network. If a device was previously working correctly but then disappeared from the list of available printers, it's possible that your router settings have changed or your Windows drivers have been updated. We'll cover not only standard scenarios but also solutions for common connection errors.
Preparatory stage and compatibility check
Before you begin the active setup phase, you need to make sure your equipment is ready to work wirelessly. Make sure your laptop and printer are HP LaserJet are located in close proximity to a Wi-Fi access point. Distances greater than 5-7 meters or thick concrete walls between the router and printer can significantly weaken the signal, leading to errors when transferring installation files.
Checking the frequency range is critical. Models of the series M28 and M31 support only the standard 2.4 GHz and don't see networks that operate exclusively in the 5 GHz band. If your router is broadcasting two different networks with the same name (Dual Band), you'll need to temporarily disable the 5 GHz network or ensure your laptop is connected to the 2.4 GHz network during setup.
⚠️ Attention: Before beginning installation, be sure to remove all USB cables connecting the printer to the computer. A physical connection may confuse the installer, who may attempt to select wired mode instead of wireless.
It's also a good idea to know your Wi-Fi network password in advance. In some cases, especially during manual setup, the system will require you to enter it manually, and lack of access to this information will block the process. Check the sticker on the router or log into its control panel to refresh your memory.
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Resetting HP Printer Network Settings
If the printer was previously used on a different network or was purchased second-hand, it may have retained old configurations in its memory that will interfere with the new connection. For models HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28/M31 There's a simple button combination for resetting network settings to factory defaults. This action will clear saved Wi-Fi profiles and return the wireless module to search mode.
Simultaneously press the wireless button (antenna icon) and the cancel button (cross) on the device's control panel. Hold them for 3-5 seconds until the power light starts flashing. After you release the buttons, the printer will reboot the network module, and the wireless light should start flashing blue, indicating it's ready to pair.
In some cases, especially after a firmware update, a standard reset may not work. In this case, you can use the recovery menu, although this is rarely necessary for this series. The key is to ensure the WiFi indicator is blinking rather than solid, which indicates there is no active connection.
What to do if the WiFi indicator is not blinking?
If the indicator remains solid after the reset, the printer is still trying to connect to the old network. Repeat the reset procedure, holding the buttons a little longer (up to 7 seconds). If this doesn't help, try turning off the router during setup to ensure the printer doesn't connect automatically.
Automatic setup via HP Smart
The most modern and manufacturer-recommended method is to use the app HP SmartThis universal solution is available for Windows 10/11, macOS, Android, and iOS. The program automatically finds the device on the network, downloads the necessary drivers, and guides the user through all configuration steps, minimizing the risk of error.
To get started, download the app from the Microsoft Store or the official HP website. After installation, launch the program and click the "Add Printer" button or the plus sign. The system will begin searching for devices on the local network. If the printer was reset correctly (blue indicator flashing), HP Smart should detect it and prompt you to continue setup.
During installation, the app will request permission to use your location and access your local network—this is necessary to transfer WiFi settings from your laptop to the printer. Follow the on-screen instructions: select your network from the list, enter the password, and wait for the process to complete. The printer's indicator light should stop flashing and turn solid blue.
Manually installing drivers from the HP website
If the automatic method doesn't work for some reason, or you prefer full control over the process, use the full driver package from the official website. Find the support page for your model. HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28-M31 and download the file labeled "Full Feature Software and Driver." This file contains not only print drivers but also scanning and toner monitoring utilities.
Run the downloaded file and select "Wireless" as the connection type. The installer will offer several options. Select "Connect the printer to a wireless network" or "Use a temporary USB cable" (if the first option is unavailable). If you select the wireless method, the program will ask you to confirm by blinking the WiFi indicator on the printer.
The key point: During the installation process, you may be asked to select a connection type. Make sure that it is selected. Wireless, and not USB or Network (Ethernet), since this model does not have a LAN port, and selecting a wired network will result in an error searching for the device.
| Parameter | Description | Meaning for M28/M31 |
|---|---|---|
| Connection type | PC communication method | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Frequency range | Operating frequency of the signal | 2.4 GHz only |
| Security protocols | Network encryption type | WPA2-Personal (AES) |
| Mobile printing | Smartphone support | AirPrint, Mopria, HP Smart |
Using WPS technology for a quick start
Many modern routers are equipped with a function WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup), which allows you to connect devices without entering a password. If your router has a physical WPS button, this method may be the fastest. Press and hold the WPS button on the router for 2-3 seconds until the WPS indicator on the router starts blinking.
Immediately after this, within 2 minutes, press and hold the wireless button on the printer panel HP LaserJet until the power indicator starts blinking. The printer will automatically attempt to find a router with pairing mode enabled and connect to it. This method only works if the network uses WPA or WPA2 encryption.
⚠️ Attention: The WPS method will not work if your router is configured to use only a hidden SSID or if the WPS function is disabled by your ISP in the router's security settings.
Once the connection is successful, the printer's WiFi indicator will stop blinking and remain solid. If the indicator continues blinking for a long time, the connection was unsuccessful, and you should try the HP Smart app or manually entering the settings through the installer.
Setting up a static IP and troubleshooting
In rare cases, especially in offices with complex network infrastructures, the printer may lose connection due to a change in the IP address assigned by the router's DHCP server. For stable operation, it is recommended to assign a static IP address to the device. This can be done via the printer's Embedded Web Server (EWS).
To access the web interface, find out the printer's current IP address by printing a configuration report (press the "i" information button or hold down the wireless button). Enter this address in your browser's address bar. Go to the [Printer] tab. Network -> IPv4 and select "Manual IP." Enter an address within your subnet but outside the DHCP range.
A common problem is that the Windows Firewall or antivirus software blocks the connection. If the installation freezes while searching for a device, try temporarily disabling your third-party antivirus. Also, make sure AP Isolation isn't enabled in your router settings, as it prevents devices on the same WiFi network from seeing each other.
Why doesn't my laptop see the HP M28/M31 printer in the list of devices?
Most often, the problem is that the devices are on different subnets (for example, a laptop on a 5 GHz band with guest access, and a printer on a 2.4 GHz band as the primary network). Also, check whether your firewall is blocking port 9100, which is used for printing.
Can this printer be connected to 5GHz WiFi?
No, the wireless module in the HP LaserJet Pro M28 and M31 models only supports the 2.4 GHz band. To connect, ensure your router is broadcasting a 2.4 GHz network and that your laptop is connected to it during setup.
How do I reset my network settings if I forgot my WiFi password?
To reset the printer's network settings to factory defaults, simultaneously press and hold the wireless button and the cancel button (the cross) for 5 seconds until the power light flashes. You can then restart the connection process.