Modern office tasks require mobility, and wireless connection printer is the standard of efficiency. Model HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28 M31 It's a compact solution that easily integrates into a home or office network. However, initial setup often raises questions for users unfamiliar with the protocol's specifics.
The main difficulty is that the device doesn't have a full color display, which limits menu navigation. You'll need to use a combination of buttons and indicators to activate network search mode. Following the correct sequence will help avoid driver errors and issues with device visibility in the system.
In this article we will go through all the available configuration methods, including using WPS, a mobile app, and a wired connection to initially transfer router settings. Following these recommendations will help you establish a stable connection the first time.
Preparing equipment and checking the network
Before you begin setting up, make sure that your Wi-Fi router It's working correctly. The computer or smartphone you'll be using for setup must be connected to the same network you plan to connect the printer to. Make sure the signal is stable and the device is within a strong reception area.
Turn on the MFP HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28 M31 Plug the machine into the power outlet and wait for the initialization phase to complete. The power indicator should be solid and the machine should not make any unusual noise. Make sure there is paper in the tray, as some models require a sheet to complete the readiness test.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure your router broadcasts a network in the 2.4 GHz range. This printer model does not support modern 5 GHz networks, and if the router only operates in this range or the network names (SSID) for 2.4 and 5 GHz are combined into one, difficulties with device detection may arise.
For successful installation, you'll also need to know your wireless network password. If your password uses complex characters, prepare them in advance to avoid typing errors. Network security important, but for SOHO (Small Office/Home Office) type printers, sometimes it is necessary to simplify encryption protocols if standard methods do not work.
WPS method: quick connection without password
The easiest way to knit HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28 M31 with a router - using technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method automatically transfers network information without manually entering a password, eliminating typos. Your access point must support this feature, which is true for most modern models.
Press and hold the wireless button on the printer's control panel for a few seconds until the light starts flashing. Then, within two minutes, press the WPS button on your router. This is usually marked with a corresponding icon or text.
- 📶 The Wi-Fi indicator on the printer will start blinking, indicating that it is searching for a signal.
- 🔒 After a successful handshake, the indicator will light up blue or green (depending on the modification).
- 🖨️ The device will automatically receive an IP address and become available for printing.
If the indicator continues to flash or remains orange, the connection has not been established. In this case, repeat the procedure, making sure you are within two-minute intervalSometimes you need to reboot your router if the WPS function is frozen.
Setup via USB cable and HP Smart
If the automatic search does not work, the most reliable method is to perform the initial setup via USB cableTo do this, you'll need a computer running Windows or macOS and a USB 2.0 cable (Type-A to Type-B), which is often included in the box but may not be available in some regions.
Download and install the application HP Smart From the official website or the Microsoft Store. Launch the program and select the option to add a new printer. Follow the on-screen instructions, selecting the USB connection option for initial network setup.
⚠️ Important: Only connect the USB cable when explicitly prompted by the setup program. Connecting the cable too early may result in the system attempting to install basic drivers without the ability to configure the Wi-Fi module.
During the installation process, the setup wizard will copy your Wi-Fi network settings (SSID and password) from your computer to the printer. After confirming successful data transfer, the program will prompt you to disconnect the cable. Now HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28 M31 must work wirelessly.
☑️ Checking the USB connection
Using the HP Smart app on mobile devices
Smartphone and tablet owners can set up printing without using a computer. The app HP Smart Available for iOS and Android, it allows you to control your device remotely. This is especially convenient if you don't have a PC with an optical drive or a free USB port nearby.
To get started, enable location services on your smartphone and allow the app to access them. This is necessary to detect the printer on your local network. Open the app, tap "Add Printer," and follow the prompts. If the printer is new, it may be found automatically via Bluetooth Low Energy.
During the setup process, the app will prompt you to select your Wi-Fi network from a list and enter the password. Your mobile phone will transmit this information to the MFP. Make sure your smartphone is connected to the same network you want to connect the printer to.
- 📱 Download the HP Smart app from the App Store or Google Play.
- 🔦 Turn on Bluetooth and geolocation on your mobile device.
- 🔑 Enter the Wi-Fi network password in the appropriate field in the application.
Once successfully connected, you can scan documents directly into the app and print them from cloud storage. Mobile apps often offer more functionality than standard drivers, allowing you to check toner levels and device status.
Reset network settings and restore access
In situations where the printer has stopped seeing the network or you have changed the Wi-Fi password, you may need a full reset network settingsThis will return the network module. HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28 M31 to factory settings, deleting all saved connection profiles.
To reset, press and hold the "Wireless" and "Cancel" (red cross) buttons simultaneously for 3-5 seconds. The indicators on the panel should flash, confirming the command. The device will then restart the network adapter.
Steps to reset:1. Press and hold the Wireless button.
2. Without releasing the first button, press and hold the Cancel button.
3. Hold both buttons for 3-5 seconds until the indicators flash.
After the reset, the printer will enter setup mode and be discoverable as a new device. Repeat the connection process using one of the methods described above. This also helps resolve IP address conflicts on the local network.
What to do if resetting doesn't help?
If resetting the network settings doesn't resolve the issue, try updating the printer firmware via USB using the HP LaserJet Firmware Update Utility. Sometimes firmware errors can block the Wi-Fi module.
Problem Diagnosis and Indicator Table
Understanding the status of the indicators on the control panel is critical for diagnosis. Light indication Informs about connection status, driver errors, or paper problems. Don't ignore the flashing lights, as they can help you locate the problem.
Below is a table deciphering the main states of the wireless indicator for the model M28 M31Please note that the color and blinking frequency may vary depending on the firmware version.
| Indicator status | Color | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turned off | - | Wireless connection is disabled | Press the Wireless button to turn on |
| Flashing | Blue | Searching for network or connection error | Check your router settings and password |
| It's on constantly | Blue | Successful connection to Wi-Fi | You can start printing. |
| It's on constantly | Orange | Access point mode (Direct) | Connect to the printer network directly |
If the indicator is orange, the device is in standby mode. Wi-Fi DirectIn this mode, the printer creates its own network that can be connected to without a router, but the printer won't provide internet access. This is useful for printing from a phone while traveling.
⚠️ Note: Software interfaces and indicator behavior may change with firmware updates. If the described steps do not match your device's behavior, please consult the latest user manual on the manufacturer's official website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can this printer be connected to a 5GHz network?
No, model HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28 M31 The device is equipped with a module that only supports the 802.11b/g/n standard in the 2.4 GHz band. To connect, make sure your router broadcasts in this range.
What should I do if my computer can't see my printer via Wi-Fi?
Make sure both devices are on the same subnet. Check if your antivirus or Windows Firewall is blocking the connection. Try running the built-in Windows printing troubleshooter.
How to find out the IP address of a printer?
Press and hold the Wireless button and the Information (i) button simultaneously for 3 seconds. The printer will print a network configuration report, which will display the current IP address.
Do I need to remove the USB cable after setup?
Yes, the cable must be disconnected to use wireless mode. If the cable remains connected, the computer may prioritize the USB connection, ignoring the network connection.