Modern office tasks require mobility, and the ability to print from any device in the home or office is becoming critical. Model HP LaserJet Pro M104w It's a popular choice due to its compact size and wireless networking, eliminating the need to run cables across the room. However, initial setup wireless connection often raises questions among those who encounter laser printers of this brand for the first time.
Activating the Wi-Fi module in the device isn't complicated, but it does require following a specific sequence of steps to successfully sync with the router. Unlike inkjet models, there's no touchscreen, so control is via a combination of buttons and indicators on the front panel. Correct network configuration Allows you to print documents directly from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop without using USB cables.
In this article, we will examine in detail all available connection methods, including using WPS technology, classic setup via a temporary USB connection, and working with a proprietary application. HP SmartYou'll learn how to properly reset network settings if previous attempts have failed, and how to avoid common password entry errors. Equipment readiness and knowledge of the operating nuances communication protocols will help you complete the installation in minutes.
Equipment preparation and requirements verification
Before proceeding with the software portion of the installation, you must ensure that all system components are physically ready. Make sure that the printer M104w Plugged into a power outlet and loaded with paper, as some models may not activate the Wi-Fi module without paper in the tray. It's also critical to know the exact name and password of your wireless network, as the device will not be able to connect to hidden networks or corporate portals with authorization.
Please pay attention to your router's frequency range, as this is a common cause of connection issues. This model supports the standard 802.11b/g/n, which means it operates exclusively in the 2.4 GHz band. If your router only broadcasts on the 5 GHz band or the network names are combined into a single SSID, the printer may not see the access point.
⚠️ Important: Make sure that AP Isolation is not enabled on your router, otherwise your computer and printer will not be able to “see” each other on the network, even if both are connected to Wi-Fi.
For initial setup, you may need a USB-A to Type-A (printer) cable, which is often included in the box, but it's best to have it ready in advance if you've already disposed of the box. It's also recommended to temporarily disable VPN connections on your computer, as they can block the driver installer from finding the device on your local network. Make sure your PC or smartphone has the latest operating system updates installed to ensure the drivers work correctly.
Activating the setup mode on the printer
The first step is to put the device into connection standby mode. In the control panel HP LaserJet Pro M104w You need to find the button with the wireless antenna icon. Press and hold this button for a few seconds until the power and wireless indicators start flashing simultaneously. This indicates that setup mode activated and the device is ready for pairing.
If the lights are unresponsive or blinking in a different pattern, the printer may already be attempting to connect to a previously saved network. In this case, you'll need to reset the network settings. To do this, turn off the printer, then press and hold the wireless button and the cancel button (the cross), then turn it on again, holding both buttons until the Ready indicator appears.
What do the indicators on the M104w panel mean?
Solid blue: connection established. Blinking blue: searching for a network or transferring data. Solid orange: error or setup mode. Off: Wi-Fi module is disabled.
After activating setup mode, the device creates its own temporary network or becomes visible to search engines. At this point, don't attempt to print immediately; instead, wait until the indicator light flashes steadily, confirming operation. radio moduleThe detection wait time may be up to 2 minutes, depending on the airtime load.
Connection method via WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)
The fastest way to connect a printer to a router is using WPS technology, if your router supports it. This method transmits the password automatically, eliminating the need to enter it manually, thus eliminating character errors. On the router body, look for the button marked WPS or the two arrows icon, and on the printer, make sure that the setup mode is running.
Press the WPS button on the router and hold it for 2-3 seconds, then press and hold the wireless button on the panel within 2 minutes M104w until the indicator light starts blinking. The devices will begin exchanging encryption keys, and the process will take no more than a minute. A successful connection will be confirmed by a steady blue Wi-Fi indicator on the printer.
It's worth noting that the WPS method won't work if you're using complex corporate security or specific encryption types other than WPA2-Personal. In rare cases, your computer's antivirus software may block the installation file, considering the network scan attempt suspicious. If automatic setup fails, the printer indicator will return to an error state, requiring you to select an alternative method.
Setup via USB cable and HP software
If automatic methods fail, the most reliable option is to use a temporary USB connection to transfer network settings. To do this, connect the printer to your computer with a cable and install the drivers downloaded from the official website or from the installation disc. During the installation, select the "Wireless" connection type and follow the wizard's instructions, which will automatically detect the device via the USB port.
Software HP Smart Or the full driver package will automatically read your current Wi-Fi network parameters and transfer them to the printer. After successful data transfer, the installer will prompt you to disconnect the USB cable, as further communication will be over the air. This is the most stable method, ensuring the installation of all necessary components and utilities for monitoring the printer's performance. toner.
☑️ USB Connection Checklist
If the laptop is connected to Wi-Fi via an Ethernet cable, the process will also be successful, but make sure both networks are on the same segment. After disconnecting the USB cable, the indicator on the device should turn blue, confirming the transition. wireless protocol.
Using the HP Smart app for mobile devices
For smartphone and tablet users, the optimal solution is to use the app HP Smart, available in the App Store and Google Play. This method allows you to set up a printer without using a computer, making it especially convenient for MacBook or Chromebook owners. Open the app, tap "Add Printer," and follow the on-screen voice or text prompts.
The app will automatically detect the new printer in setup mode and prompt you to share the passwords for the Wi-Fi network your phone is connected to. This eliminates the need to manually enter complex characters and minimizes setup time. Once complete, you can print or scan documents immediately through the app interface.
| Method | Necessary equipment | Complexity | Probability of success |
|---|---|---|---|
| WPS | Router with a WPS button | Low | High |
| USB cable | AB cable, PC | Average | Very high |
| HP Smart (Mobile) | Smartphone with Wi-Fi | Low | High |
| Wi-Fi Direct | Printer and device only | Average | Average |
If the app doesn't find the device, check the location and local network permissions in your phone's settings, as modern operating systems require these to scan for peripherals. Also, make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone, as HP Smart uses it for the initial handshake protocol before transmitting Wi-Fi keys.
Alternative: Wi-Fi Direct
In situations where the router is unavailable or located far away, you can use the technology Wi-Fi DirectThis mode allows you to create a direct connection between the printer and your device without a router. To activate, press and hold the Wi-Fi Direct button on the printer panel (if available) or use the button combination described in the instructions to print a configuration report.
The report will include the network name (eg. HP-Print-M104) and a password to connect. Find this network in the list of available Wi-Fi networks on your laptop or phone, enter the password, and start printing. Please note that in this mode, the device may lose internet access if it doesn't support dual Wi-Fi operation.
Using a direct connection is ideal for temporary printing from guest devices or in environments with limited network infrastructure. However, for permanent printing in the office or at home, a traditional router connection is preferable, as it provides simultaneous printer access to all computers on the network.
Diagnosing problems and troubleshooting errors
If the wireless light continues to blink or is orange, the connection is not established. Print a network configuration report by quickly pressing the information (i) button on the control panel to check the IP address and connection status. If the address begins with 169.254.. or equal 0.0.0.0, this means that the printer has not received an address from the router's DHCP server.
A common cause of errors is incompatible security standards. Make sure your router settings don't have a MAC address filter enabled, which blocks new devices, or aren't using the outdated WEP encryption protocol, which modern drivers may not support by default. Try temporarily simplifying your router's security settings to test them, then revert them back.
⚠️ Note: Router interfaces and firmware versions may vary. If standard methods don't work, consult your ISP or router manufacturer's documentation for more information on wireless settings.
If nothing helps, perform a full network reset on the printer: turn off the device, hold down the wireless and cancel buttons, and turn it on. After the reset, try running the setup wizard again. If the problem persists, the printer itself may be faulty. Wi-Fi module printer or antenna cable inside the case.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Can the HP M104w be connected to a 5GHz network?
No, model M104w The router is equipped with a module that only operates in the 2.4 GHz band. If your router broadcasts a network with the same name (SSID) for both bands, try separating them in the router settings or force-switching your computer to the 2.4 GHz network during setup.
What should I do if my computer can't see my printer via Wi-Fi?
Make sure your computer and printer are connected to the same subnet (same router IP address). Check to see if Windows Firewall or antivirus software is blocking the connection. Try adding the printer manually by IP address through the "Devices and Printers" menu.
How to find out the IP address of a printer?
Press and quickly release the Information (i) button on the printer control panel. A report will print, showing the IPv4 address in the "Wireless" or "Network" section, for example: 192.168.1.55.
Do I need to turn off the printer after setup?
No, after successful setup, the device can remain on. It will automatically enter power-saving mode but remain connected to the network and ready to print on command.