Modern technologies allow you to do without unnecessary wires and print documents or photos directly from your smartphone, from anywhere in the house. HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28w Equipped with a built-in wireless module, the setup process is as simple and user-friendly as possible. You don't need to find a USB cable or turn on your computer to perform basic printing and scanning tasks.
However, despite its ostensible simplicity, initial device synchronization with a mobile operating system can sometimes be challenging for beginners. Often, the problem lies in obscure details of the router's setup or the sequence of steps. In this article, we'll cover all connection steps in detail, from preparing the equipment to troubleshooting common errors.
It is worth noting that for successful operation it is necessary that both devices are in the same frequency range. Wireless network The connection must be stable, as a laser printer is sensitive to connection interruptions during large data transfers. Proper setup today will save you time and frustration in the future.
Preparatory stage and compatibility check
Before proceeding with software settings, you need to make sure that the hardware is physically ready. Printer HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28w The device must be plugged into a power source and running. Make sure the toner cartridge is installed correctly and the protective orange tape and fasteners inside the device have been removed.
Frequency range compatibility is critical. This model supports the standard 802.11b/g/n, which operates exclusively in the 2.4 GHz band. If your router only broadcasts on the 5 GHz frequency or uses "5 GHz only" mode, the printer simply won't see the access point.
⚠️ Note: Some modern routers automatically combine 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks under a single name (Smart Connect). In rare cases, this may cause a conflict when connecting older devices. If automatic setup fails, try temporarily separating the networks in your router settings.
Also check the status of your mobile device. For full functionality, it is recommended to use a smartphone or tablet running Android 8.0+ or iOS 12+Make sure Bluetooth and location are enabled on your phone, as modern discovery protocols use these modules for the initial handshake.
Setting up Wi-Fi Direct on the printer itself
There are two main connection methods: via your router's home network and a direct Wi-Fi Direct connection. The second option is especially convenient if your router is located far away or you're away from home. To activate direct connection mode on the printer's control panel HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28w a certain sequence of actions must be performed.
Press and hold the Wireless button on the control panel for a few seconds until the indicator light starts flashing. Then press the Start (Copy) button to print a configuration report or confirm the mode is activated. A new access point should appear in the list of available networks on your phone screen, with a name that includes the printer model, for example, HP-Setup-28-LaserJet or Direct-28-HP LaserJet.
The default connection password is often found on a sticker on the back of the device or in the network configuration report. The default password for Wi-Fi Direct mode is usually 12345678After entering the password, the phone will establish a direct connection to the printer, bypassing the internet router.
☑️ Check before connection
Using the HP Smart app for Android and iOS
The most functional and manufacturer-recommended control method is to use the proprietary application. HP SmartIt allows you to not only print but also scan documents, monitor toner levels, and update your device's firmware. The app can be downloaded from official stores. Google Play or App Store.
After installation, launch the app and click the "Add Printer" button or the plus icon. The app will automatically search for devices on your local network. If the printer is already connected to your Wi-Fi router, it will appear in the list. If not, the app will prompt you to set up a new device. Follow the on-screen instructions: select your home network from the list and enter the Wi-Fi password.
During the setup process, the app may request permission to access your location and local network. Permissions These are required for proper operation, as iOS and Android restrict port scanning without explicit user consent. Once successfully added, the printer will appear on the app's main screen with the "Ready" status.
What should I do if the app doesn't see the printer?
Make sure your phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network you plan to connect the printer to. Temporarily disable mobile data (3G/4G/5G) on your phone, as it can interfere with local discovery. Also, try rebooting your router and printer by unplugging them for 10 seconds. In rare cases, deleting old HP printer profiles from the app helps.
Print via AirPrint and Mopria without installing drivers
Apple ecosystem users can evaluate the technology AirPrint, which is built directly into the operating system iOSPrinting documents, photos from your gallery, or pages from the Safari browser doesn't require installing additional apps. All you need is your iPhone and printer. HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28w were on the same Wi-Fi network.
The process is as follows: open a document or photo, click the "Share" button (the square with an arrow), and select "Print." Your device should appear in the printer selection menu. For devices based on Android The standard printing service serves as an analogue Mopria or a built-in printing system, which also does not require complex manipulations.
This method is ideal for quick printing, when you urgently need to print a ticket, boarding pass, or web page. However, scanning or setting up complex settings will still require the full app. HP SmartBasic printing provides a minimal set of functions, but works very stable.
Connection Method Comparison Table
The choice of connection method depends on your current tasks and environmental conditions. Below is a comparison table to help you decide on the optimal printer setup. HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28w from a mobile phone.
| Method | A router is required | Internet access is needed | Functional |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP Smart (Wi-Fi) | Yes | Required for installation | Full (print, scan, monitoring) |
| Wi-Fi Direct | No | Not needed | Print only (limited) |
| AirPrint / Mopria | Yes | Not needed (locally) | Print only |
| USB OTG (Android) | No | Not needed | Print (cable required) |
As can be seen from the table, the mode Wi-Fi Direct It's a lifesaver in situations where there's no access to the main network or the router is faulty. However, for office work that requires scanning to the network or cloud, a classic connection via a router using an app is preferable.
Please note that when using Wi-Fi Direct mode, your phone may temporarily lose internet access, as it connects directly to the printer rather than the global network. This is normal behavior for most mobile operating systems when working with access points without WAN access.
Solutions to common problems and errors
Even if you strictly follow the instructions, technical problems may occur. One common problem is that the printer doesn't respond to print requests. In this case, first check the device's IP address. If the address begins with 169.254.x.x, this means the device did not receive an address from the router (DHCP failure). You need to reboot the router.
Another common error is "Printer offline." This often happens if the phone has gone into power-saving mode and disabled Wi-Fi, or if the router has changed the channel and the printer has been "lost." Restarting the print service on the phone or reconnecting to the network usually resolves the issue.
⚠️ Important: If the Wi-Fi indicator on the printer is blinking blue, it means the device is in setup mode and is not connected to the network. A solid blue indicator indicates a successful connection. A continuous blinking indicator may also indicate a WPS error or an incorrect password.
You can use the "Wireless" button on the printer's control panel for diagnostics. A short press will display a network status report, including the IP address, network SSID, and signal strength. If the signal is weak (one or two bars), try moving the printer closer to the router or using a Wi-Fi repeater.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can the HP M28W be connected to a 5GHz network?
No, model HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28w Only supports the 802.11b/g/n standard, which operates in the 2.4 GHz band. To connect, your router must be broadcasting the 2.4 GHz network. If you have a dual-band router, make sure this feature is enabled.
What is the default password for Wi-Fi Direct?
The default password for direct connection mode is usually 12345678However, for security purposes, it can be changed. The exact password is located on the information sticker on the back of the printer or can be printed on the wireless network configuration report.
Does the scanner work via Wi-Fi on the phone?
Yes, scanning via Wi-Fi is possible, but only through the official app. HP SmartStandard system tools (like AirPrint) only allow printing. To scan, ensure the app has access to the camera and file storage.
Why doesn't the phone see the printer in the list?
Make sure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network (same SSID). Check if AP Isolation is enabled on the router, which prevents devices on the network from seeing each other. Also, try temporarily disabling the VPN on your phone.