It is impossible to imagine a modern office without wireless technologies, and HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28w This series of laser MFPs is one of the most popular solutions for small workgroups and home use. The ability to print documents directly from a smartphone or laptop without unnecessary cables significantly increases productivity. However, initial network setup often raises questions for users new to this series of laser MFPs.
Unlike inkjet models, laser printers have their own wireless activation features that must be taken into account for successful pairing. Wi-Fi Direct and a standard connection via a router—these are the two main scenarios we'll cover in detail. Proper configuration during installation will eliminate many issues with accessing the device in the future.
Integrating a printer into your local network takes little time, but requires attention to detail. Mistakes when entering the password or selecting the connection method can prevent your computer from detecting the device. Let's look at all the available network activation methods so you can choose the one that best suits your situation.
Equipment preparation and requirements verification
Before you begin the software setup, you need to make sure the physical part is ready for operation. Make sure the MFP is connected to a power source and paper is loaded in the tray. For stable operation, wireless network It is also important that the router is located in an area with a strong signal, as laser printers are sensitive to connection quality.
You'll need to know your wireless network name (SSID) and password. If you plan to use WPS, make sure your router has a corresponding button or the feature is enabled in the web interface. Without this information, automatic configuration will be impossible.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure your router broadcasts a network in the 2.4 GHz range Model HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28w does not support modern 5 GHz networks, and if your router only broadcasts them or hides the SSID, the printer will not be able to connect.
It's also worth preparing a computer or mobile device for control. For full functionality, we recommend downloading the latest driver from the manufacturer's official website, although the operating system may attempt to install the device automatically.
Reset network settings and enable search mode
If the printer was previously used on a different network or the settings have been reset, the first step should be a factory reset. This will clear the device's memory of old connection profiles and put it into pairing mode. To do this, press and hold the wireless button and the cancel button simultaneously on the control panel.
Hold the indicated keys for a few seconds until the lights start flashing. Then release the buttons. The wireless indicator should start flashing blue, indicating that setup mode activated and the device is ready to search for a network.
In some cases, especially if the printer is new, it may immediately enter setup mode after being turned on. However, a manual reset ensures that no hidden configuration conflicts interfere with the process. This is especially true if you recently changed your ISP or Wi-Fi password.
WPS method: quick connection without entering a password
The easiest way to integrate HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28w
The easiest way to connect to a network is to use WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method eliminates the need to manually enter a complex password and minimizes the risk of error. However, it requires that your router supports this feature and that it be enabled.Press the WPS button on your router. It's usually marked with a WPS icon or two arrows in a circle. After pressing it, you have about two minutes to activate the printer search.
On the MFP control panel, press and hold the wireless button for 3 seconds. The indicator light should start flashing and then turn solid blue if the connection is successful. This means The security protocol has been agreed upon and the device has received an IP address from the router.
☑️ Checking the WPS connection
⚠️ Important: If the Wi-Fi indicator continues to blink and doesn't stay lit, the WPS feature on your router may be disabled in the security settings or it may have timed out. In this case, repeat the procedure or use the USB cable method.
Setup via USB cable and HP Smart
If automatic methods don't work, the most reliable option is to use a USB cable to transfer the initial network settings. To do this, you'll need a USB 2.0 Type AB cable, which is often included in the kit but may require an additional one. Connect the cable to the computer and the printer.
Run the driver installer or application HP Smart, which can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store or Apple App Store. The program will automatically detect the connected device and prompt you to set up a wireless connection. Follow the on-screen instructions, selecting your network from the list of available ones.
During installation, the program will automatically transfer Wi-Fi settings to the printer's memory. Once the data transfer is successful, the installer will prompt you to disconnect the USB cable. Wireless connection should activate automatically and the indicator on the panel will turn blue.
Driver installation process:1. Run HP Smart or the installer from the website.
2. Add a new printer.
3. Select "Set up a new printer".
4. Follow the instructions on the screen until the cable is disconnected.
Manual setup via control panel
Advanced users can manually configure the network directly using the buttons on the MFP. This method is useful if you don't have a computer with the software installed. You'll need to know the exact network name and password.
Press and hold the wireless button until the power light starts flashing. This puts the device into network selection mode. You can then use the continue button (with a piece of paper) to cycle through available networks, although on the model M28w The functionality of the panel is limited.
A more efficient manual method is to use Wi-Fi DirectPress the Wi-Fi Direct button on the control panel. The printer will create its own network. You can find the name and password for connecting to it by printing a configuration report. To do this, press and hold the Resume button until the Ready light comes on.
| Indicator | State | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi (Blue) | It's on constantly | Connected to the network | You can print |
| Wi-Fi (Blue) | Flashing | Setup mode | Waiting for connection |
| Wi-Fi Direct (Green) | It's on constantly | Direct mode is active | Connect to the printer directly |
| Error (Amber) | Flashing | Communication error | The router needs to be reset or checked. |
What is Wi-Fi Direct?
This technology allows you to connect mobile devices directly to a printer without using a home router. You connect to the printer's network (for example, the HP-Print-28-LaserJet) and print documents even if the internet is disconnected.
Installing drivers and diagnosing problems
After successfully connecting the device to the network, you need to install the software on your computer. Windows 10 and 11 often detect the device automatically, but for full functionality, including scanning, you need the full driver package. Download it from the official HP website by selecting your model.
During the installation process, select the "Wireless" or "Network" connection type. The installer will find the printer on your local network by IP address. If the search fails, check that your computer and printer are on the same subnet. This is often due to client isolation on the router.
For diagnostics, use the printer's Embedded Web Server (EWS). Enter the device's IP address, which can be found by printing a configuration report (press the "i" key or key combination), into the browser's address bar. In the section Network You will see the connection status and signal quality.
⚠️ Note: Software and web panel interfaces are subject to update. If you don't find the button or menu you're looking for, check the latest documentation on the manufacturer's official website, as interface designs may change without changing the device model.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why can't my computer see my HP M28w on the network?
The most common issue is that the devices are on different networks (for example, one on 2.4 GHz and one on 5 GHz with separate SSIDs) or client isolation is enabled on the router. Also, check the Windows Firewall, which may be blocking discovery.
How do I find the IP address of my HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28w printer?
The easiest way is to print a network configuration report. To do this, press and hold the Resume button (with a sheet icon) on the control panel until the lights start blinking, then release. The IPv4 section of the printed report will show the address.
Can this printer be connected to 5GHz Wi-Fi?
No, model HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28w Equipped with an 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi module, which operates exclusively in the 2.4 GHz band. Make sure your router broadcasts a network in this standard.
What to do if the orange error indicator is on?
An orange light usually indicates a paper error or cartridge issue. If the consumables are OK, try a cold reset: turn off the printer, unplug the power cord for 30 seconds, then turn it back on.
How to change Wi-Fi Direct name?
The Wi-Fi Direct network name is based on the device name. To change it, you must change the printer name via the Embedded Web Server (EWS) in the "General" or "Settings" tab, then reboot the device.