The modern Apple ecosystem demands maximum wireless autonomy from peripheral devices, and HP LaserJet MFP 135w This is one of the few compact laser MFPs that can operate reliably with macOS. Users often encounter difficulties during initial configuration, as the standard Windows driver installation process isn't applicable, and macOS has its own unique printing protocols. Unlike older models, this device doesn't require a physical cable connection for basic setup, provided you know the correct steps.
The key is correct initialization Wi-Fi module The printer itself, which by default may be in sleep mode or waiting for a connection. Many users mistakenly try to find the device immediately after turning it on, forgetting to set the network adapter to actively search for the network. Only after the wireless indicator starts blinking or stays solid will the MacBook see the printer in the list of available devices.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the entire process, from resetting network settings to fine-tuning through a hidden menu. HP Embedded Web ServerWe will consider not only the standard method through system settings, but also alternative methods, including using Apple AirPrint and manual installation of PPD files for advanced functionality. This will allow you to avoid common errors and enjoy fast document printing without the hassle.
Preparing equipment and checking system compatibility
Before you begin setting up, make sure that your MacBook or iMac Connected to the same wireless network to which you plan to connect the printer. This is a fundamental requirement, as a direct Wi-Fi Direct connection may be unstable when first installing drivers. Check your operating system version, as the settings paths may differ slightly for macOS Ventura, Sonoma, and earlier versions, although the principle remains the same.
It is also important to check the status of the cartridges and the presence of paper in the tray, since the MFP HP LaserJet MFP 135w The printer may enter error mode when the tray is empty, ignoring network requests. Make sure the device is plugged in and within range of a strong router signal. If the printer was previously used with a different router, we recommend resetting the network settings to factory defaults.
⚠️ Attention: Don't attempt to connect a USB cable while setting up Wi-Fi. macOS may automatically attempt to install drivers for a wired connection, which will create a port conflict and prevent the system from detecting the wireless device.
Up-to-date security updates and system extensions are critical for working in the Apple environment. If your MacBook is running a newer macOS, the system may block the installation of unverified kernel extensions required for full scanner functionality. Make sure you have internet access in advance to download the necessary components via Software Update.
Enabling Wireless Mode on the HP 135w Printer
The first step to successful pairing is to put the device itself into configuration mode. On the control panel HP LaserJet MFP 135w You need to find the button with the image of a wireless antenna. A short press usually displays the current network status on the monochrome display, but we need a deeper interaction.
To enter setup mode, press and hold the Wi-Fi button for 3-5 seconds until the indicator light starts flashing blue. This indicates that the printer has entered connection standby mode and is broadcasting its own signal for discovery. In some cases, if the device has been previously configured, you may need to reset the network through the menu.
☑️ Printer ready for setup
If holding the button doesn't work, use the key combination to force a reset of network settings. This will clear saved SSID profiles and passwords, returning the network module to its "out of the box" state. After the reset, the device will automatically restart the network interface.
There's an alternative activation method via the reports menu, which is useful if the panel buttons are slow to respond. Print a network configuration report to ensure the wireless module is physically functional and ready for use. The report will show the current IP address (or lack thereof) and the connection status.
Using AirPrint for quick, driverless setup
The easiest and most reliable way to get your printer working on macOS is with technology Apple AirPrintIt's built into the system and doesn't require installing cumbersome driver packages from the manufacturer. Once your MacBook detects the printer on the network, it will automatically download the necessary print profile, providing basic functionality.
Go to your computer's System Preferences. Depending on your macOS version, the path may look like this: System Preferences → Printers & Scanners or System Preferences → Print, Scan & FaxClick the add new device button (usually a plus sign) +).
In the list that opens, select HP LaserJet MFP 135w. Pay attention to the "Use" column. The system should automatically select Secure AirPrint or DriverlessThis ensures that printing will occur directly via the IPP protocol, bypassing unnecessary data conversion.
What should I do if AirPrint doesn't see my printer?
If AirPrint doesn't appear in the "Use" list, try temporarily switching to the software selection and finding the HP LaserJet 135 series model in the list. Sometimes the system misclassifies the device and requires manual selection of the PPD file. Also, make sure your router isn't setting AP Isolation to isolate wireless clients.
After adding a printer, it's recommended to print a test page immediately. This will not only confirm the connection is working but also wake the device if it has gone into power-saving mode. AirPrint handles documents well, but scanning may require additional software.
Installing the HP Easy Start Complete Driver Package
While AirPrint provides excellent printing, it requires full scanner functionality and toner management. MacBook It's better to use specialized software. HP offers a utility HP Easy Start, which automatically detects the model and downloads the latest drivers compatible with your version of macOS.
Download the installer from the official HP support website. When launched, the program will ask for permission to make changes to the system—this is necessary to install network profiles. Follow the on-screen instructions, selecting the wireless connection option.
⚠️ Attention: During the installation process, macOS may display a warning that "Software from HP Inc. cannot be opened because it is not from the identified developer." In this case, go to
System Preferences → Privacy & Securityand click "Open anyway".
The utility will also offer to register the device and set up automatic firmware updates. This is a useful feature, as new firmware versions often fix protocol compatibility issues. Wi-Fi and improve connection stability. Firmware updates should only be omitted in corporate networks with strict restrictions.
After installing the full package, an HP folder with additional utilities will appear in the "Applications" folder. There you will find HP Utility, which allows you to monitor toner levels, adjust saving settings and perform color calibration (although color calibration is not relevant for the monochrome 135w, maintenance functions are present).
Setting up a static IP and web interface
For stable operation in an office or home network with multiple devices, it is recommended to assign a static IP address to the printer. Dynamically assigning addresses via DHCP can lead to a situation where the computer loses connection to the printer after rebooting the router, as the device's address will change.
You can find your current IP address by printing a configuration report or viewing it in the network settings window on your printer's display. Enter this address into the address bar of any browser on your Mac. This will open the built-in web interface. EWS (Embedded Web Server).
In the EWS menu, go to the "Network" tab and select "IPv4 Configuration". Here, change the mode from DHCP to Manual IP (Static IP). Enter an address that is outside your router's DHCP range but within the same subnet.
| Parameter | Meaning (Example) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| IP Address | 192.168.1.200 | The unique address of a device on the network |
| Subnet Mask | 255.255.255.0 | Subnet mask (usually default) |
| Gateway | 192.168.1.1 | Your router's address |
| DNS Server | 8.8.8.8 | Domain Name Server (you can use Google) |
After applying the settings, the printer will reboot the network module. You will need to re-add the printer to macOS using the new static address. Select the "IP" tab in the printer list and enter the specified address, selecting the protocol. HP Jetdirect - Socket or AirPrint, if it is supported by manual input.
Diagnostics and troubleshooting (FAQ)
Even with proper configuration, situations may arise where printing is queued but not executed, or the scanner is unresponsive. Often, the issue lies with the macOS firewall or the router's energy saving settings. Check whether the system is blocking incoming connections for print services.
If your printer periodically disappears from the network ("Offline"), try disabling the "Deep Sleep" feature in the device's web interface. Aggressive power-saving mode can cause the connection to the access point to be lost, preventing the printer from quickly reconnecting when a print job arrives.
To reset the printing system on a Mac, you can use the Print menu. Right-click (or Ctrl+Click) an empty space in the printer list and select "Reset Printing System." Warning: This action will delete all saved printers and print queue settings, so use this method only as a last resort.
In complex cases, rebooting your network equipment in a strict sequence can help: turn off the router, printer, and computer. Turn on the router and wait until it fully boots up. Then turn on the printer, and only after it's ready, turn on the computer. This sequence ensures that IP addresses are assigned correctly.
Why doesn't my MacBook see the HP 135w in the list of Wi-Fi networks?
Make sure both devices are in the 2.4 GHz range Model HP LaserJet MFP 135w Doesn't support 5 GHz networks. If your router combines bands under one name, try temporarily separating them or forcing the MacBook to connect to the 2.4 GHz network.
How to scan documents from the HP 135w on a Mac?
Use the built-in Image Capture app in macOS. It automatically detects network scanners. For advanced features, you can install HP Scan, which comes with a full driver package.
Is it possible to connect a printer via Wi-Fi Direct without a router?
Yes, the HP 135w supports Wi-Fi Direct. To do this, you need to enable Direct mode on the printer, find the network with the "Direct-HP..." prefix on your Mac, and enter the password (usually 12345678). However, this method is less stable for continuous operation.
What should I do if a driver is missing after updating macOS?
Remove the printer from the system and download the latest version. HP Easy Start from the official website and reinstall. Apple frequently changes driver signature requirements in new OS versions, so older versions of the software may no longer work.