Modern office devices require flexibility in connectivity, and the model HP Laser MFP 135w is no exception, offering users the ability to print without unnecessary cables. Wireless technology allows the device to be placed anywhere with access to a power outlet, while remaining accessible to all computers on the local network. Activating the communication module is the first and critical step, without which further use of the device in remote printing mode is impossible.
Setting up the wireless interface may seem complicated at first, but with the right approach, it only takes a few minutes. You'll need either physical access to the MFP's control panel or a USB cable for initial configuration via a computer. Understanding the logic behind the indicators and buttons will help you avoid common errors and quickly get the printer ready for use.
In this article, we'll cover all available network activation methods in detail, including using the quick access button and the standard settings menu. We'll also explore the nuances of working with different operating systems and pay special attention to troubleshooting if the connection fails the first time. Properly configuring the router and device settings is essential for the stable operation of all printing equipment.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before you begin software configuration, you must ensure that the device is in good physical condition and that the environmental conditions meet the technical requirements. Make sure that HP Laser MFP 135w printer Plugged into a power outlet and in a resting state, not in deep sleep or power-saving mode, which can block some menu functions. Place the device no more than a few meters from the access point to ensure sufficient signal strength for the initial handshake.
It's crucial to check the supported security standards of your router. This model of equipment works correctly with modern encryption protocols, but may encounter difficulties with older standards or specific corporate network settings. You need to know your network name (SSID) and the exact password, as you'll need to enter these details during the configuration process.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure your router is broadcasting in the 2.4 GHz band. The 135w model doesn't support 5 GHz, and if your router only broadcasts the high-speed band, the printer simply won't see the network.
It's also worth checking that your computer or laptop has the latest drivers, as software often includes utilities that automate the connection process. You can download the full driver and utility package from the manufacturer's official website by selecting the appropriate operating system. Having up-to-date software minimizes the risk of conflicts when exchanging data between devices.
Using the WPS button for quick connection
The fastest way to establish a connection between a router and a printing device is the technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method allows you to automatically transmit your network password, eliminating the need to manually enter complex character combinations on a limited-function panel. To implement this method, your router must also support this feature and have a dedicated button on its body.
The activation process is as follows: on the printer control panel, locate the button with the image of an antenna or wireless network. Press and hold this button for a few seconds until the indicator light next to it starts flashing. This indicates that the module has entered search mode and is waiting for a signal from the router.
After activating the mode on the printer, go to the router and press the button WPSSome router models may require you to hold the button for a couple of seconds, while others require a short press. After this, the devices will begin exchanging encryption keys, and if the connection is successful, the Wi-Fi indicator on the printer will stop flashing and remain solid.
It's worth noting that the WPS method doesn't always work on the first try due to time delays in security protocols. If the indicator light turns off or turns red, repeat the procedure, waiting 1-2 minutes between attempts. This will allow the device's network services to reboot and correctly initiate a new connection.
Manual setup via the device control panel
If automatic connection is not possible, you will have to use the built-in menu of the MFP itself. Interface HP Laser MFP 135w It's fairly straightforward, but requires a precise sequence of steps to access the network settings section. First, click the menu button on the panel, then use the arrow keys to find the item responsible for network settings.
Inside the menu you need to find the section Network or Net, and then select the option Wireless or Wireless networkA list of available networks within range will open. Find your router's name (SSID) in the list and confirm your selection by clicking OK.
The next step is entering a password. Since the device doesn't have a keyboard, characters are entered using the arrow keys (up/down to select a letter, left/right to move the cursor) and the OK button to confirm the character. This process can take some time, especially if the password is complex and long.
☑️ Verify your password before entering it
After entering all the characters, select "Done" or "Apply." The printer will attempt to connect to the router using the entered data. If successful, a connection message may appear on the screen, and the wireless network indicator will stabilize.
Configuration via USB cable and computer
The most reliable method to prevent password entry errors on the small panel is to use a USB cable and specialized software. To do this, you'll need to download the full version of the drivers from the official HP support website. When launching the installer, select "Wireless" or "Wi-Fi" as the connection type, even though the device will be physically connected via a cable.
The setup program will automatically detect the printer connected via USB and prompt you to transfer the Wi-Fi settings from the computer it's connected to. This means your laptop must already be connected to the target wireless network. The algorithm will automatically copy the SSID and password, saving them to the device's memory.
During the setup process, the installer will ask you to temporarily connect a USB cable between your computer and the MFP. Follow the on-screen instructions: after the settings are transferred, the program will prompt you to disconnect the cable. From this point on, printing will be done wirelessly.
| Parameter | Description | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Connection type | USB for setup, Wi-Fi for operation | High |
| PC requirements | Must be on the same Wi-Fi network | Critical |
| Drivers | Full Feature Software | Necessarily |
| Cable | USB Type-B (printer) | Temporarily |
The advantage of this method is that it also installs all the necessary components for full scanner operation and toner level monitoring. It's a comprehensive solution that eliminates the need to individually configure each device in the system.
Setup via the HP Smart mobile app
For smartphone and tablet users, the optimal solution is to use the app HP SmartThis tool allows you to manage your printer, scan documents, and configure connections directly from your mobile device. The app is available for iOS and Android platforms and requires registration or signing in to an HP account.
To begin setup, add a new printer in the app by tapping the plus icon. The app will prompt you to enable Bluetooth on your phone, as this is often the initial connection. Once the device is detected, follow the on-screen prompts to transfer the Wi-Fi settings.
If automatic detection fails, the app will prompt you to use direct setup mode. In this mode, the phone temporarily connects to the printer's direct Wi-Fi signal (usually followed by "Direct" or the device model number in the network name) to transfer the settings from the main router.
What should I do if the app doesn't see the printer?
Make sure location and Bluetooth are enabled on your phone. On some Android versions, location permissions won't allow the app to scan for available Wi-Fi networks and share their names with the printer.
The mobile method is especially convenient because after setup, you immediately have access to mobile printing features. You can print documents from cloud storage, photos from your gallery, or web pages from anywhere in the world, as long as the printer is connected to the internet.
Diagnostics and troubleshooting
Even if all instructions are followed, situations may arise when the printer The HP Laser MFP 135w won't connect to Wi-Fi. One common cause is incompatible network security. Make sure your router isn't using an outdated encryption type (such as WEP) or the experimental WPA3, which budget printer models may not support.
Problems may also be related to the DHCP server settings on the router. If the address pool runs out of available IP addresses, the printer will be unable to obtain its network ID. In this case, rebooting the router or temporarily connecting another device to test the address assignment may help.
Sometimes a full reset of the printer's network settings to factory defaults helps. This usually requires holding down a specific button combination (often the wireless button and the cancel button) until all the lights blink simultaneously. After the reset, you'll have to repeat the setup process.
⚠️ Attention: Firmware interfaces and button behavior may vary slightly depending on the installed software version. If the steps described above don't work, check the official documentation for the exact sequence for your device version.
Keep in mind that distance and physical obstacles (walls, metal furniture, microwaves) can significantly weaken the signal. If your printer is in a far corner or behind a thick wall, try moving it closer to the router to test the signal strength hypothesis.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can the HP Laser MFP 135w be connected to a 5GHz network?
No, this model is equipped with a module that operates exclusively in the 2.4 GHz band. If your router broadcasts networks with the same name (SSID) for both bands, try separating them in the router settings or force the device to use the 2.4 GHz band.
What does a blinking blue wireless light mean?
A blinking blue light usually means the wireless module is enabled, but the printer isn't connected to the network or has lost its connection to the router. A steady light indicates a successful connection.
Do I need to remove the USB cable after setting up via computer?
Yes, if you were using a cable only to transfer Wi-Fi settings, you'll need to disconnect it to switch to wireless mode. If the cable remains connected, the computer may prioritize the wired connection, ignoring Wi-Fi.
How to find the IP address of a printer on the network?
To obtain a network configuration report that lists the IP address, press and hold the Cancel (X) button or the Information (i) button on the control panel for a few seconds until the printer prints the report.