Modern laser MFPs such as HP LaserJet MFP M28w, allow you to completely eliminate wires, providing convenient printing from any device within network range. A wireless connection eliminates unnecessary visual clutter and provides flexibility in equipment placement. However, initial setup Wi-Fi module This often raises questions among users, especially if drivers are missing or the router uses hidden security protocols.
In this article, we'll take a detailed look at all the current methods for integrating a device into your local network. We'll cover automatic setup via HP Smart, the classic WPS method, and manual connection via a temporary USB cable. The correct method depends on your operating system version and router configuration.
We will pay special attention to the intricacies of installing drivers for Windows 10 and 11, as this is the stage where conflicts most often arise. You'll learn not just to "push buttons," but to understand the logic behind a network printer's operation, which will allow you to easily change passwords or move equipment to another office without specialist assistance in the future.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before moving on to the software part, you need to make sure that the equipment is physically ready for work. HP LaserJet MFP M28w The printer has a built-in wireless module, but it must be activated and configured correctly during the initial setup. Make sure your laptop or PC is in the same frequency range as your router—this printer operates within the range 2.4 GHz.
It's important to know that many modern routers operate in two bands simultaneously, combining them under a single name. If you have separate networks 2.4G And 5G, make sure that the laptop is connected to the first option, because M28w does not support 5 GHz.
⚠️ Note: If your router is configured to broadcast its SSID (network name) secretly, automatic printer discovery may not work. In this case, you will need to temporarily enable network visibility or use the WPS method.
Also check if you have an account HPAlthough basic printing is possible without registration, full functionality HP Smart and remote control require authorization. Prepare your Wi-Fi network login and password in advance, as they will be required during the installation process.
WPS method: quick connection without entering a password
The easiest and fastest way to connect a printer to a router is to use technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)This method allows you to transfer network settings automatically, eliminating the need to manually enter a password. It's ideal if you don't want to bother with installing drivers via USB or downloading files.
First, locate the WPS button on your router. It may be a physical button or a virtual button in the router's web interface. Press and hold it for 2-3 seconds until the WPS indicator on the router starts blinking. This means the device has entered search mode.
- 🔘 Go to the printer HP M28w and press the wireless button on the control panel (antenna icon).
- 🔘 Simultaneously press and hold the Cancel button (cross) for 3 seconds.
- 🔘 The wireless indicator on the printer should start blinking blue, indicating that a connection is being attempted.
- 🔘 Wait until the indicator turns solid blue - this means a successful connection.
Once the indicator stops flashing and remains lit, you can proceed to installing the drivers on your laptop. Windows often automatically detects the device on the network, but for full functionality, it's best to use the official installer.
Setup via USB cable and HP Smart (Recommended method)
The most reliable method to ensure that all components are installed correctly is to use a temporary USB connection. HP Smart Automatically retrieves your Wi-Fi network data from your computer and transfers it to the printer. This eliminates manual input errors and solves 90% of connection problems.
Connect first HP LaserJet MFP M28w to your laptop using a USB cable (usually included, type AB). Turn on the printer. Now open your browser and go to the website. 123.hp.com or find the app HP Smart in the Microsoft Store.
During installation, the program will prompt you to select a connection type. Select "Wireless" or "Wi-Fi." The installer will detect the printer via USB and prompt you to transfer the network settings.
☑️ Checklist before installation
Once the settings transfer is complete, the program will prompt you to disconnect the USB cable. After this, the printer will automatically switch to wireless mode. If the Wi-Fi indicator lights blue, you've successfully configured the device.
What should I do if HP Smart doesn't detect the printer via USB?
Make sure the cable is secure and firmly inserted. Try a different USB port, preferably directly to the motherboard rather than through a USB hub. Also, check if your antivirus software is blocking the installer.
Manual installation of drivers without a cable
If you don't have a USB cable handy and WPS isn't working, you'll have to install the drivers manually. This method requires careful attention, as you'll need to manually select the printer from the list of available devices on the network.
Download the full driver package from the official support website. HPWhen starting the installation, select the "I can't find my printer" or "Set up a new printer" option. The program will begin searching for devices on the local network.
If the printer is already connected to Wi-Fi (you saw it blinking blue after WPS setup or a reset), it should appear in the list. If it doesn't, select the "Printer not listed" option and follow the wizard's instructions to search for it by IP address or name.
| Parameter | Meaning / Description | Where to find |
|---|---|---|
| Network name (SSID) | Your Wi-Fi name | Router settings |
| Printer IP address | For example, 192.168.1.55 | Network Report (i button) |
| Connection port | Standard TCP/IP Port | Printer properties in Windows |
| Protocol | WPA2-PSK (AES) | Router security |
It is important to determine correctly IP address If the automatic search fails, you can print a network configuration report by pressing and holding the "i" (information) button on the printer control panel. The report will show the current IP address, which you'll need to enter into the setup wizard.
Troubleshooting driver issues in Windows 10 and 11
Windows operating systems often try to install drivers on their own, but for LaserJet MFP M28w This may result in limited functionality (for example, the scanner may stop working). It is best to use a driver. PCL6 or HP PCL-6 Class Driver.
If your device appears with a yellow exclamation mark or as "Unknown Device" in Devices and Printers, try uninstalling it completely. Go to Settings → Devices → Printers & Scanners, select the HP M28, and click "Uninstall."
⚠️ Important: After removing the printer, restart your laptop. This will clear the spooler cache and allow the system to begin a clean installation without any conflicts with old files.
It's also worth checking your printing service. Click Win + R, enter services.msc and find the Print Spooler service. Make sure it's running and the startup type is set to Automatic.
Checking connection quality and diagnostics
After successful installation, it would be a good idea to check the wireless signal quality. Printer HP M28w The connection may be lost if it's too far from the router or behind thick walls. The range shouldn't exceed 30 meters in open spaces, but in an apartment with concrete walls, the range can be reduced to 10 meters.
For diagnostics, use the wireless test report. Press and hold the wireless and information buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds. The printer will print two pages: one with network settings and one with the test results.
- 📶 Signal: Check your signal strength (Excellent, Good, Poor). If the signal is weak, move your router or printer.
- 🔗 Status: It should say "Connected".
- 🛡️ Safety: Make sure the encryption type matches your router settings (usually WPA2).
If your connection quality is poor, try changing the Wi-Fi channel on your router. Neighboring networks often cause interference, and switching to a less congested channel (1, 6, or 11) can significantly improve printing stability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can the HP M28w be connected to a 5GHz network?
No, model HP LaserJet MFP M28w supports only the standard 802.11b/g/n, which operates exclusively in the 2.4 GHz band. If your router only broadcasts 5 GHz, the printer won't see the network. You'll need to enable a 2.4 GHz guest network in your router settings or split the bands.
What to do if the orange Wi-Fi light is on?
A flashing orange light means the printer is in setup mode but is unable to connect to the network. A steady orange light may indicate an error. Try resetting the network settings: press and hold the Wireless and Cancel buttons simultaneously for about 5 seconds until the power light flashes.
Does the scanner work via Wi-Fi?
Yes, after installing the full driver package HP Smart or HP ScanScanning is available over the network. However, the initial connection and setup of the scanner often requires a temporary USB connection, after which the functions become available wirelessly.
How do I change the Wi-Fi password if the printer is already configured?
If you change the router password, the printer will lose connection. You'll need to repeat the setup process (via WPS or USB) to transfer the new credentials to the device's memory. Resetting the printer's network settings is described in the previous question.