Multifunctional device HP Laser MFP 135r This is a compact solution for the home office, but its basic configuration often doesn't include a built-in wireless module. Users who purchase this model often need to set up network printing to avoid unnecessary cables and ensure access to the scanner and printer from various devices. In this guide, we'll cover in detail all the possible ways to integrate the device into your local network.
Before you begin software configuration, you need to make sure that the hardware is physically ready. Static IP address Whether it's DHCP or a wired connection, it doesn't matter how the router assigns the address, as long as the connection is stable. We'll cover both a wired connection via an Ethernet cable (if your router supports LAN) and a wireless connection via the control panel menu or WPS technology.
It is important to understand that your device's firmware may affect the availability of some features. The 135r model comes with limited Wi-Fi functionality in some regions, requiring activation via a service code or the purchase of a license. Therefore, the first step should always be to check the specifications of your particular instance and update the software to the latest version.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
To begin the setup process, carefully check the printer's packaging and technical condition. Make sure the device is connected to the network and operational, as indicated by the "Ready" indicator on the control panel. If you plan to use a wireless connection, the router must be in wireless mode. 2.4 GHz, since many laser MFPs do not support 5 GHz frequency.
To successfully sync, you'll need to know your Wi-Fi network password. If you're using an Ethernet cable, make sure it's working properly and meets the Cat5e standard or higher to ensure maximum data transfer speeds. It's also recommended to temporarily disable MAC filtering on your router, if enabled, to ensure the printer has unimpeded network access.
⚠️ Attention: Before beginning setup, ensure all shipping tapes and orange locks are removed from the cartridge. Attempting to setup the printer with locked mechanisms may result in a network module initialization error.
Place the printer within a strong signal range if you're not using a cable. Walls, metal cabinets, and other appliances can create interference, leading to connection interruptions when printing large documents. The optimal distance from the router for stable operation is no more than 10-15 meters in an open area.
Using an Ethernet cable for initial setup
The most reliable initial configuration method is a wired connection. Even if your ultimate goal is wireless printing, a cable can be used to set the correct network parameters, which are then transmitted to the Wi-Fi module. Connect one end of the LAN cable to the printer port and the other to an available port on your router.
Once physically connected, the device will automatically try to receive IP address via DHCP. This process typically takes a few seconds. You can verify the success of the operation by printing a network configuration report. To do this, press the menu button on the control panel, select "Report," and confirm printing.
☑️ Checking the physical connection
If the address doesn't get assigned automatically, the DHCP server may be disabled on your network. In this case, you'll need to manually enter a static IP address, subnet mask, and gateway using the printer's built-in web menu or control panel. This requires basic knowledge of your organization's or home's network architecture.
Setting up a wireless connection via the control panel
Most users prefer to set up straight away The HP Laser MFP 135r supports wireless networking. For this purpose, there is a button with an antenna or wireless network icon on the front panel. Pressing this button or a key combination (depending on the firmware version) activates the search for available networks.
Using the navigation arrows, find the name of your home or office network (SSID) in the list. Note that network names may be duplicated if you have a dual-band router. Select the 2.4 GHz network, as it provides better compatibility with peripherals.
After selecting the network, a password prompt will appear on the screen. Use the arrow keys to navigate the virtual keyboard and the OK button to select characters. Be careful when typing: letter case is important, and complex special characters may require switching input modes.
- 📶 Press the wireless button on the printer panel.
- 🔍 Select "Network Setup" or "Wireless Setup" from the menu.
- 📝 Find your router's name in the list of available networks.
- 🔑 Enter your Wi-Fi password, making sure to be case-sensitive.
After entering the password, the device will attempt to establish a connection. A successful connection is confirmed by the wireless indicator light remaining steady. If the indicator light is blinking, this indicates the connection is in progress or an error has occurred. If the connection is unsuccessful, check that the password you entered is correct and ensure the router is not blocking new devices.
What to do if the printer does not see the network?
Make sure your router isn't hiding the SSID (network name). If it is, you'll have to manually enter the network name (SSID) in the printer settings by selecting "Enter network name manually." Also, check if guest network mode is enabled, which often isolates devices from each other.
Connection via WPS technology
The fastest way to connect HP Laser MFP 135r To connect to Wi-Fi without entering a password, use WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method only works if your router supports this feature and it's enabled. There should be a button marked with the appropriate symbol on the router.
To begin, press and hold the WPS button on the router for a few seconds until the security light starts flashing. Then, within two minutes, press the wireless button on the printer. The devices will automatically exchange encryption keys and establish a connection.
⚠️ Caution: WPS is considered less secure than using complex passwords, as it is theoretically possible to guess the PIN. Use this method only on trusted home networks, and disable WPS on your router after setup, if possible.
If automatic connection doesn't occur, check if the connection timeout has occurred. Some router models only allow 60 seconds for a response from the connecting device. In this case, you'll need to repeat the process, but try again sooner.
Setting up mobile printing via HP Smart
HP's modern ecosystem is tied to app usage. HP Smart, which is available for iOS and Android. This app not only manages printing but also helps you complete printer setup if you can't do so through the control panel. Download the app from the official store and create an HP account.
Launch the app and click "Add Printer." The program will scan the network and find your device. If the printer isn't yet connected to Wi-Fi, the app will offer to transfer the network settings from your smartphone. This is especially convenient, as you won't have to manually enter the password on the printer's small keyboard.
Once detected, follow the instructions on your smartphone screen. The app may prompt you to update the printer firmware before starting work. Firmware update — a critically important step, as new software versions often contain security fixes and improve the stability of the Wi-Fi module.
- 📲 Install the HP Smart app on your smartphone.
- 🔗 Connect your phone to the same Wi-Fi network to which you want to connect the printer.
- ➕ Click "+" or "Add printer" in the app.
- ✅ Confirm the transfer of network settings to the device.
Network troubleshooting and diagnostics
Even with proper configuration, situations may arise where the printer becomes unavailable. Often, the problem stems from a change in the IP address assigned by the router. If you use dynamic address assignment, rebooting the router may cause the printer to receive a new address, and the computer will lose connection to the old one.
To resolve this issue, we recommend reserving an IP address for the printer in the router settings. This can be done through the DHCP Reservation or Static Lease section, where a permanent IP address is assigned to the device's MAC address. This will ensure stable operation of the drivers on computers.
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The printer was not found on the network. | Different subnets or VLANs | Make sure your PC and printer are on the same network. |
| Printing is slow | Weak Wi-Fi signal | Move your router or use a repeater |
| Driver error | Invalid print port | Create a new port with the current IP |
| Communication interruption | Interference on the channel | Change the Wi-Fi channel in your router settings. |
It's also worth checking your computer's firewall or antivirus settings. Sometimes security systems block network requests from mandatory devices, considering them suspicious. Add the printer to the exceptions or allowed devices list.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Can the HP Laser MFP 135r be connected to a 5GHz network?
No, this model, like most budget laser MFPs, only supports the 802.11 b/g/n standard, which operates in the 2.4 GHz band. If your router broadcasts the same network with the same name for both bands (Smart Connect), try separating them or forcing the device to switch to 2.4 GHz.
What should you do if you forgot your printer's Wi-Fi password?
You can reset the printer's network settings to factory defaults. This is typically done via the "Network" menu -> "Restore Network Settings" or by holding the wireless button for 10-15 seconds (depending on the firmware version). After the reset, you will be prompted to re-enter the password.
Does Wi-Fi Direct work on this model?
Wi-Fi Direct allows you to connect to your printer directly, without a router. On the 135r, the availability and activation of this feature depends on the regional version and firmware. Check for the corresponding option in the network menu or the ability to search for the printer with the "DIRECT-" prefix when scanning for networks on your phone.
How to find out the IP address of a printer?
The easiest way is to print a network configuration report from the printer menu. You can also find the IP address in the HP Smart app under Device Information or through the client list in your router's web interface.