Many users, after purchasing a compact laser MFP, encounter difficulties when initially integrating the device into their home network. Wireless connection significantly simplifies work, allowing you to print documents and scan images from any gadget without unnecessary wires. Model HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28 It does not have a touch screen, so settings are controlled through a combination of buttons on the control panel or using specialized software.
The setup process may seem confusing due to the lack of a display, but knowing the correct sequence of steps allows you to complete the task in a few minutes. In this article, we'll cover all the current activation methods. Wi-Fi Direct and connecting to a home router. You'll learn how to use the mobile app. HP Smart for automatic configuration and what to do if standard methods do not work.
The success of the operation directly depends on the correctness of the password entered and the state of the drivers on the computer. The M28 MFP only supports 2.4 GHz frequency., which is a critical detail for dual-band router owners. We'll cover each step in detail to eliminate any errors and ensure stable operation of your printer on your wireless network.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before you begin software configuration, you need to make sure that the device is physically ready for operation. Make sure that HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28 Plugged into a power outlet and within range of your router's signal. The distance between the router and printer should not exceed standard Wi-Fi range, and there should be no large metal barriers or strong sources of interference between them.
An important step is to check the compatibility of your operating system with current drivers. For Windows 10 and 11, as well as macOS, the manufacturer provides up-to-date software that automatically detects the device model. If you're using older OS versions, you may need to manually download support packages from the official website.
⚠️ Important: Make sure Client Isolation is not enabled in your router's wireless network settings. This feature prevents devices on the same network from communicating, making it impossible to print from your computer to the printer.
It's also a good idea to prepare your Wi-Fi network password in advance. In most cases, this is a long string of characters that you'll need to enter during pairing. Having this information handy will speed up the process and eliminate the need to interrupt the setup process to search for it.
Check if the wireless indicator on the device panel is lit. If the button Wireless Flashing blue means the module is active, but the connection to the router has not yet been established. A steady light indicates a successful connection, while no light indicates the module is off.
Resetting the printer's network settings
If the device was previously used on a different network or the router settings were changed, the old configuration may conflict with the new one. For correct operation HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28 Under these new circumstances, it is recommended to reset network settings to factory defaults. This will clear the device's memory of old profiles and passwords.
The reset procedure is performed directly from the printer's control panel and does not require a computer connection. You will need to press and hold two buttons simultaneously for several seconds. This is a standard procedure for most models in the series. Pro MFP.
How do I know if the reset was successful?
The wireless indicator and power button will begin flashing simultaneously. The device will then reboot the network module and enter connection standby mode.
Follow these steps to reset:
- ⚡ Press and hold the buttons simultaneously Wireless (antenna icon) and Cancel (cross icon).
- 🕒 Hold them down for 3-5 seconds until the power indicator starts flashing.
- 📡 Release the buttons and wait until the wireless indicator starts blinking blue slowly.
After completing these steps, the printer will enter setup mode. Your computer or mobile device will now see it as new hardware requiring configuration. If resetting doesn't help, try power cycling the router itself, as sometimes the issue stems from a frozen DHCP server.
Setup via the HP Smart app
The most modern and convenient way to set up is to use the application HP SmartThis software suite automatically finds the printer on the network, downloads the necessary drivers, and guides the user through all installation steps. The app is available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
To get started, download and install the app from the official Microsoft Store, Apple App Store, or Google Play. After launching, the app will prompt you to create an HP account or sign in to an existing one. While registration isn't always required for basic printing, it does unlock full device management functionality.
Next, follow the instructions on the screen:
- 📲 Click the "Add Printer" button or the plus icon in the corner of the interface.
- 🔍 Wait until the search for devices on the local network is complete.
- 🔐 Enter your Wi-Fi password when the app asks to transfer settings to the printer.
Application HP Smart The program will automatically transfer the SSID and network password to the MFP. At this point, the printer's indicator light should turn blue, indicating success. If the program detects multiple HP printers, select your model from the list. M28 by serial number or name.
Connecting via USB cable (WPS)
If automatic detection doesn't work or the network is hidden, you can use the initial setup method via a USB cable. This method is often called a "wired installation" because it requires a physical connection between the computer and the printer to transfer network parameters. A type AB cable is usually included in the kit, but may be required separately.
Connect the USB cable to the computer and printer ports. Run the driver installer downloaded from the manufacturer's official website. During the installation, select the "Wireless" or "Wi-Fi" connection type, even if you have a cable. The program uses the cable only for initial network data transfer.
☑️ USB setup checklist
After the program reports the settings have been successfully transferred, you can disconnect the cable. The printer will save the network settings and use them for a permanent connection. This method is especially useful if your computer has older driver versions that cannot correctly detect the device over the network without first "binding."
It's important not to connect the USB cable until the installer explicitly asks for it. Connecting prematurely may trigger direct printing (USB printing), and the setup wizard will not offer the Wi-Fi setup option. Follow the on-screen prompts exactly as directed.
Using Wi-Fi Direct technology
Technology Wi-Fi Direct Allows you to connect mobile devices and laptops directly to the printer, bypassing your home router. This creates a separate access point, which is distributed by the MFP itself. This feature is indispensable if your internet provider is temporarily down and you need to print a document urgently.
To activate the mode, press the button Wi-Fi Direct on the control panel (smartphone icon). The indicator will start blinking and then stay solid. On the device you plan to print from, open the list of available Wi-Fi networks. You'll see a network with a name like DIRECT-xx-HP M28.
Once connected to this network, you can print documents. Please note that in this mode, the device connected to the printer may temporarily lose internet access if it doesn't support two simultaneous Wi-Fi connections. To return to the global network, you'll need to switch back to the main router.
This method is ideal for guests or temporary users who don't want to share your main home network password. However, for permanent work in the office or at home, a classic router connection is better, as it provides access to network scanning and remote monitoring features.
Solving typical problems and errors
Even if you follow the instructions exactly, technical difficulties may arise. Often, the problem stems from the computer and printer being on different subnets or frequency bands. Below is a table of common symptoms and solutions.
| Symptom | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The Wi-Fi indicator is blinking | There is no connection to the router | Check the password and the 2.4 GHz band |
| The computer doesn't see the printer. | The firewall is blocking the connection | Allow HP app in firewall |
| Device Not Found Error | The print service has stopped. | Restart the Print Spooler service |
| Weak signal | Long distance to the router | Move the printer closer to the source |
If your printer has stopped responding, try updating the firmware. This can be done through the app. HP Smart In the "Advanced Settings" or "Web Services" section. Firmware updates often fix compatibility issues with new router models and WPA3 security protocols.
⚠️ Note: The driver interface and router menu may differ depending on the software version. If the menu items described here don't match yours, please refer to the router or printer manufacturer's documentation for the correct section names.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can the HP M28 be connected to a 5GHz network?
No, model HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28 The router is equipped with a Wi-Fi module that only supports the 802.11b/g/n standard at 2.4 GHz. If your router broadcasts networks with the same name (SSID) for both bands, try separating them in the router settings or temporarily disabling the 5 GHz band during setup.
Where can I find my printer's IP address on the network?
To find out the IP address, press and hold the button Wireless on the printer's control panel for 5 seconds. The device will print a network configuration report, which will show the current IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.45). This address is needed for manual driver installation or access to the web interface.
What to do if the orange error indicator is on?
An orange light typically indicates a paper error, a jam, or low toner. If there are Wi-Fi issues, the Attention light may flash orange if the connection fails after several attempts. In this case, repeat the reset and password verification process.
Does AirPrint and Google Print work on this model?
Yes, after successfully connecting to a Wi-Fi network, the printer automatically supports Apple AirPrint and Mopria (the equivalent of Google Print for Android). No additional drivers are required for printing from smartphones; the phone and printer must be on the same network.