A modern office or home workspace is unimaginable without reliable peripherals that provide quick access to documents. Wireless connection The printer eliminates the need to look for a free USB port on your computer and allows you to print from multiple devices at once, including smartphones and tablets. Model HP LaserJet Pro M104w It is equipped with a built-in Wi-Fi module, making it an excellent choice for compact workgroups.
The setup process may seem complicated at first glance, especially if you've previously used wired connections. However, by following a clear sequence of steps, you'll be able to activate network interface devices in minutes. In this article, we'll take a detailed look at all the available methods for integrating a printer into your local network.
It's important to understand that stability depends not only on the printer itself, but also on the signal quality of your router. If you plan to place M104w In a remote room, ensure the signal strength is sufficient to transmit large amounts of data. Let's review the basic steps for preparing and setting up the equipment.
Preparing for setup and checking requirements
Before you begin installing software and configuring network settings, you must ensure that all system components are ready to operate. Make sure that your router The printer must be turned on and sharing internet, and the computer or laptop used for setup must be connected to the same network. The printer must be unpacked, cartridges installed, and all shipping tapes removed.
⚠️ Attention: Model M104w Only supports the 2.4 GHz frequency range. If your router broadcasts both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks under the same name, if you encounter problems, try temporarily separating them in the router settings or force a connection to the 2.4 GHz network.
To successfully install the drivers, you will need access to the Internet, as the installer HP Smart Or the full driver package will download automatically. You should also have a USB-A cable on hand (usually included, but it's best to check beforehand). Without this cable, initial Wi-Fi setup via a computer may not be possible on some operating systems.
Check if the wireless indicator on the printer's control panel is lit. If it's blinking blue, the Wi-Fi module is active but the connection hasn't been established yet. A steady blue light indicates a successful connection to the network. If the indicator isn't lit, wireless mode may be disabled in the printer's menu.
- 📶 Make sure you know the password for your Wi-Fi network (WPA/WPA2 key).
- 💻 Charge your laptop or make sure your PC has a stable power supply during installation.
- 🔌 Prepare a working USB cable for a temporary connection.
- 📱 Install the HP Smart app on your smartphone if you plan to print mobile.
Connection Method via USB Cable (Recommended)
The most reliable initial configuration method is using a USB connection. This method allows the setup program to automatically transfer your Wi-Fi network information (SSID and password) directly to the printer. Plug one end of the cable into the printer and the other into the computer, then turn on the device. The system should detect the new hardware.
Go to the official HP support website or use the included disc (although the software on the disc may be outdated). You need to download the full driver package for your model. LaserJet Pro M104a/m104wRun the installation file and follow the on-screen instructions. When asked for a connection type, select "Wireless" or "Wi-Fi."
The program will prompt you to connect the USB cable if you haven't already. After detecting the printer via USB, the installer will prompt you to set up a network. Select your network from the list and enter the password. At this point, the settings are transferred, and the printer switches to wireless mode. Once you confirm success, you can disconnect the USB cable.
☑️ USB Connection Checklist
It's important not to interrupt the data transfer process. If you disconnect the cable too early, the settings may not be saved. Once the Wi-Fi indicator on the printer turns solid blue, the device is ready to connect to the network. The computer should also see the printer as a network device.
Setup via WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)
If your router supports WPS, the connection process can be significantly simplified by avoiding manual password entry. This method is ideal for those who don't want to fiddle with driver installations at the outset. On the printer's control panel M104w Find the button with the image of an antenna or wireless signal.
Press and hold the Wi-Fi button on the printer for 3-5 seconds until the light starts flashing. Then, within two minutes, press the WPS button on your router. It's usually marked with a corresponding icon or label. The devices will automatically find each other and exchange encryption keys.
Once pairing is successful, the printer's indicator light will stop flashing and turn solid blue. This means that IP address received and a connection to the router has been established. Now you can proceed to installing the drivers, selecting the "Already connected to the network" option.
⚠️ Note: WPS will not work if your network uses MAC address filtering or is hidden (SSID Hide). In these cases, use the USB cable method or manual configuration through the control panel.
This method is especially convenient if you don't have a USB cable handy or are setting up the printer from a tablet without a USB port. However, for full scanner functionality and advanced features, you'll still need to install the full software package from your computer.
Using the HP Smart app for mobile devices
Modern users often prefer to control their equipment from their smartphone. Application HP Smart Available for iOS and Android, it allows you to not only print but also perform initial printer setup. Make sure your smartphone is connected to the Wi-Fi network you want to connect the printer to.
Launch the app and tap the Add Printer button (usually a plus sign). The app will begin searching for devices. If the printer is already turned on and in setup mode (the light is blinking), HP Smart will prompt you to add it. Follow the instructions on your mobile device to transfer the network settings.
Once connected, you can print documents, photos from your gallery, and even scan documents directly into the app. Mobile setup is often faster than PC setup thanks to the optimized interface. However, for office use, where stable PCL6 driver operation is essential, PC installation is still necessary.
What should I do if HP Smart doesn't see my printer?
Make sure Bluetooth and location services are enabled on your smartphone (required for Android). Also, make sure the printer is in setup mode (the Wi-Fi indicator is blinking). If this doesn't help, reset the printer's network settings by holding down the wireless button and the cancel button simultaneously for 3 seconds.
The app's functionality allows you to monitor toner levels and order consumables. This makes HP Smart An indispensable tool for everyday use. Don't forget to update the app regularly for new features and security fixes.
Troubleshooting common connection issues
Even with proper setup, problems may still occur. Often, the problem lies in the computer and printer being on different subnets, or antivirus software blocking the connection. Check if the blue Wi-Fi indicator is lit. If it's blinking, the connection has been lost or not established.
Try restarting your router and printer. Sometimes simply resetting the network cache helps the device obtain a new IP address and restore connectivity. Also, make sure network discovery is enabled on your computer. In Windows, you can check this in the Network and Sharing Center.
If all else fails, reset the network settings on the printer itself. To do this, simultaneously press and hold the wireless button and the job cancel button for 3 seconds. The lights should flash, confirming the reset. Then, repeat the setup process again.
Check your Windows Firewall or third-party antivirus software. They may be blocking ports needed to communicate with the printer. Try temporarily disabling your protection to test. If the issue resolves, add the printer to the exceptions list.
Table of status indicators and their meaning
Understanding the indicator lights helps you quickly diagnose the device's condition. Control Panel M104w Minimalistic yet informative. Below is a breakdown of the wireless module's main operating modes.
| Indicator | State | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | Turned off | Wireless connection is disabled | Press the Wi-Fi button to turn it on |
| Wi-Fi | Flashing blue | Setup mode / No connection | Connect to the network |
| Wi-Fi | It's blue | Successful connection | You can start printing. |
| Attention | Flashing orange | Error or requires attention | Check for paper and toner |
Check the device's status regularly, especially if printing is slow. A weak signal can cause data packets to drop. In this case, you may need to move the router closer or use a Wi-Fi repeater.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can the HP M104w connect to a hidden Wi-Fi network?
Yes, this is possible, but automatic methods (WPS) won't work. You'll need to connect via USB cable and manually enter the network name (SSID) and password in the driver installer settings.
Does the printer support 5GHz?
No, model LaserJet Pro M104w Only supports the 802.11b/g/n standard in the 2.4 GHz band. Make sure your router broadcasts this network.
How to find the IP address of a printer on the network?
Press and hold the wireless button on the printer for 5 seconds. The device will print a configuration report showing the current IP address.
Is the printer compatible with macOS?
Yes, the HP M104w is fully compatible with macOS. For the best experience, use the built-in AirPrint technology or download drivers from the HP website.
What should I do if the Wi-Fi indicator keeps blinking after setup?
This means the printer can't connect to the router. Check that the password you entered is correct and make sure the router isn't blocking new devices by MAC address.