Transforming a standard MFP into a wireless device is a common challenge for users looking to get rid of unnecessary cables. Many printer models don't come with a built-in Wi-Fi module, but that doesn't mean the feature is unavailable. There are several proven methods for integrating a printing device into a home network, each requiring careful attention to detail.
Before starting work, you need to determine the type of your equipment and available connection interfaces. Wireless printer It can work via a direct connection to the router, via a USB adapter, or via a computer network sharing system. The choice of method depends on the MFP model, operating system version, and the technical specifications of your router. Choosing the wrong method at the start can lead to wasted time and the need to reconfigure the entire system.
Modern technologies make it possible to print from any gadget in the apartment, be it a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. However, to MFP (Multi-Function Printer) reliably receives jobs, you need to ensure a stable signal and correct IP addressing settings. In this article, we'll cover all the details, from choosing an adapter to the intricacies of setting up Windows and Android.
Checking compatibility and preparing equipment
The first step should always be to diagnose the device itself. Not all MFPs support network operation, even if they have a Wi-Fi logo on the case. Often, this simply means support for the technology. Wi-Fi Direct, which works differently than a traditional router connection. You need to find the exact model number on the back of the device and check the manufacturer's official specifications.
If there's no built-in module, check for a USB port on the back. This is where external devices are most often connected. Wi-Fi adaptersIt's important to understand that not every USB dongle will work with your printer. Printer manufacturers use specific drivers, and universal solutions rarely work.
You should also check your router's firmware version. Outdated router software may not recognize new encryption protocols or incorrectly assign IP addresses to peripherals. Update firmware router is a basic procedure that should be performed before you start experimenting with the network.
⚠️ Caution: Using unsupported USB adapters may cause the printer port to overheat or a software conflict that will require a factory reset.
Prepare all necessary cables and access points. You'll need a USB cable for the initial setup, even if you ultimately plan to use wireless. Also, make sure you know your Wi-Fi network password and have access to the router's control panel.
Using an external USB Wi-Fi adapter
The most common way to make an MFP Wi-Fi-enabled without a built-in module is to install a specialized USB adapter. These are typically devices of the WNA1000, WNA3100 or their equivalents from other brands, if they are listed in the compatibility list. After physically connecting the device to the USB port, the wireless indicator on the MFP body should start blinking.
The next step in the setup process depends on the device's interface. If the MFP has a screen, you'll need to enter the network menu, select your home network from the list, and enter the password. If there's no screen, use the following method: WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). The WPS buttons on the router and printer are pressed sequentially, after which the devices exchange encryption keys automatically.
In some cases, you may need to first pair the adapter with a computer. Connect the MFP to the PC with a cable, launch the wireless network setup utility included with the drivers, and select Wi-Fi. The utility will automatically transfer the network settings to the printer's memory.
Once successfully connected, the Wi-Fi indicator on your device should be solid. This means that IP address The device is ready for use. You can now disconnect the USB cable from the computer, as it is no longer needed for data transfer.
Setting up via Print Server
If USB adapters aren't suitable or are hard to find, external print servers can help. These are small boxes with a LAN (Ethernet) port and a USB port. They work simply: you connect your MFP to the print server via a USB cable, and then connect the server to your router via an Ethernet cable.
The main advantage of this method is its versatility. The print server doesn't care whether your MFP has a screen or not, or whether it supports Wi-Fi. To the network, it appears as a standard network device. However, configuration may require using the print server's web interface.
You need to find the print server's IP address (often found on a sticker or assigned automatically by the router via DHCP). Entering this address in your browser takes you to the settings menu. It's important to enter a static IP address or reserve the address in the router so that the printer's path isn't lost after a reboot.
| Parameter | Default value | Recommended value | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| IP Address | 192.168.0.10 | Static from LAN range | The device's network address |
| Subnet Mask | 255.255.255.0 | 255.255.255.0 | Subnet mask |
| Gateway | 192.168.0.1 | Your router's IP | Default Gateway |
| Protocol | LPR/RAW | RAW (Port 9100) | Printing protocol |
After setting up the print server, in Windows or another OS you add the printer not as a local USB, but as network TCP/IPYou specify the print server's IP address, and the system begins sending documents directly to the network, bypassing your computer.
☑️ Checking the print server connection
Setting up wireless printing via a computer
If you don't want to buy additional equipment, you can use your computer as a gateway. In this case, the MFP connects to the PC via USB, and the computer, equipped with Wi-Fi, shares the printer over the network. This method has one significant drawback: the computer must be turned on and connected to the network to print.
To implement this method in Windows, you need to go to Settings → Devices → Printers & ScannersSelect your MFP and click Control and go to Printer properties. In the tab Access you need to tick the box Share this printer and give it a network name.
Now you can add the printer via the network from other devices (laptops, phones). On Windows, this is done via Control Panel → Devices and Printers → Add a printerThe system will find the shared device. For Android and iOS, you'll need special apps that support Windows Print Sharing, such as PrinterShare or built-in tools if the computer is visible on the network.
⚠️ Caution: Updating Windows or changing your computer account name may reset your sharing settings and prevent printing from working until you set them up again.
This method is suitable for a temporary solution or if printing is required infrequently. However, it places an additional load on the main computer and is dependent on its state. For office environments or active home printing, it's better to consider options with standalone network adapters.
Setting up Wi-Fi Direct on supported models
Many modern MFPs, even budget ones, have a function Wi-Fi DirectThis technology allows a device to create its own wireless network, which other gadgets can connect to directly, without a router. This is ideal if a router is far away or unavailable.
To activate this mode, you usually just need to press the button with the image of a smartphone or the Wi-Fi Direct icon on the MFP panel. The device will either display a receipt with information or display the network name (SSID) and password on the screen. The network name often contains the word Direct and the printer model.
By connecting your phone or laptop to this network, you can print documents. Some advanced models can simultaneously maintain a connection to the router and broadcast Direct, but this requires configuration via the web interface.
What is the difference between Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct?
Wi-Fi connects the printer to the router, allowing all devices on the network to print simultaneously. Wi-Fi Direct creates a hotspot for the printer itself, which requires a separate connection, often resulting in lost internet access on the phone.
To print from a phone in this mode, manufacturer applications are often used, such as HP Smart, Canon PRINT, Epson iPrintThey automatically find the device live and allow you to scan or print documents and photos.
Installing drivers and adding a device in Windows
Once the physical connection is established (via adapter, server, or Direct), the software configuration phase begins. Windows 10 and 11 often automatically detect network printers, but for full functionality (scanning, ink level monitoring), native drivers are required.
Download the full driver package from the manufacturer's official website. Select your connection type during installation. Wireless or NetworkThe installer will attempt to find the device on the network. If it doesn't find the printer, select the "Printer not found" option and enter the IP address manually.
You can manually add a device through the classic control panel. Follow the path Control Panel → Hardware and Sound → Devices and Printers → Add a printer. Select The printer you need is not listed., then Add by TCP/IP addressIn the "Name or IP address" field, enter the address of your MFP.
IP input example:
Hostname or IP address: 192.168.1.45
Port name: 192.168.1.45
The system will detect the device type. If the driver is not found automatically, click Install from disk and specify the path to the downloaded file .infAfter installation, it is recommended to print a test page to ensure that the data is being transferred correctly.
Diagnostics and troubleshooting
You may encounter problems during setup. The most common ones are "Disabled" or "Driver Error." If the printer is visible on the network but doesn't print, try clearing the print queue. Open services.msc, find the service Print Manager (Print Spooler) and restart it.
Another problem is a weak signal. If the MFP is located far from the router or behind thick walls, data transfer speeds can drop, leading to timeouts when printing large documents. In such cases, using repeaters or switching to the 2.4 GHz band, which penetrates walls better than 5 GHz, can help.
If the scanner doesn't work over the network, make sure the network scanning driver is installed (often a separate component in the installation package). A local USB scanner driver won't allow network scanning.
⚠️ Warning: Antivirus programs and Windows firewalls may block ports required for network printing. If everything is configured correctly but you still can't print, check your security settings.
Regularly check for firmware updates for your MFP itself. Manufacturers frequently release patches that improve Wi-Fi connection stability and compatibility with new router versions.
Why can't my computer see my printer on the network?
Most often, the problem stems from different subnets. Make sure your computer and printer have IP addresses that begin with the same name (e.g., 192.168.1.X). Also, check if network discovery is enabled in Windows settings.
Is it possible to connect an old printer without USB to Wi-Fi?
If a printer doesn't have a USB port (only LPT), connecting it directly to a Wi-Fi router is virtually impossible. You'll need an old computer or a dedicated server with an LPT port, which is rare and a complex technical solution in 2026.
How to find out the IP address of a printer?
Most MFPs can print a network configuration report by holding down the "Cancel" or "Info" button for a few seconds. The IP address is also displayed in the printer properties under the "Ports" tab in Windows.
Does Wi-Fi affect print speed?
Yes, it does. When transferring large graphic files or photos over a wireless network, the speed may be lower than over USB. For text documents, the difference is unnoticeable, but for large photos, it's best to use a wired connection or ensure a strong signal strength.