LaserJet Pro M118dw Connect to WiFi: A Comprehensive Guide

LaserJet Pro M118dw Connect to WiFi

The HP LaserJet Pro M118dw is a versatile and efficient laser printer ideal for both small offices and home use. One of its key features is the ability to connect to a WiFi network, allowing you to print wirelessly from multiple devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets. laserjet pro m118dw connect to wifi can be straightforward if you follow the correct steps.

This article will guide you through the entire process of connecting your HP LaserJet Pro M118dw to a WiFi network, covering different methods, troubleshooting common issues, and ensuring you’re ready to enjoy wireless printing.

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Prerequisites for Connecting the LaserJet Pro M118dw to WiFi

Before beginning the WiFi setup, ensure you have the following items:

1. A Stable WiFi Network: Your network’s name (SSID) and password will be needed during the setup process.
2. A Computer or Mobile Device: This device should already be connected to the same WiFi network that you want to connect the printer to.
3. HP Smart App (Optional): If you’re setting up the printer using a smartphone or tablet, download the HP Smart App from your app store (available for both iOS and Android).
4. HP Printer Software (Optional): If using a computer for setup, download the necessary drivers and software from HP’s official website.

Step 1: Set Up the Printer Hardware

Before connecting your printer to WiFi, you need to complete the basic hardware setup:

1. Unpack the Printer: Remove the HP LaserJet Pro M118dw from its packaging, ensuring all accessories are included, such as the power cable, toner cartridge, and manuals.
2. Install the Toner Cartridge: Open the front panel of the printer and insert the toner cartridge into its slot. Push it in until it clicks securely.
3. Load Paper: Open the paper tray, adjust the paper guides to match the size of your paper, and load the tray with the paper stack. Make sure the paper is properly aligned.
4. Connect the Printer to Power: Plug the power cable into the printer and connect it to a power outlet. Press the power button to turn on the printer.

Step 2: Choose Your WiFi Connection Method

The HP LaserJet Pro M118dw offers multiple ways to connect to a WiFi network. Depending on your preferences and equipment, you can choose between the WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) method, manual setup via the HP Smart App, or a computer-based setup using the HP Printer Assistant software.

Method 1: WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) Connection

The WPS method is one of the easiest ways to connect your printer to WiFi, but it requires that your router supports WPS. If you’re unsure whether your router has this feature, check the device for a WPS button or consult the router’s manual.

1. Activate WPS on the Printer: Press and hold the Wireless button on the printer until the Wireless light begins to blink. This indicates that the printer is ready to connect via WPS.
2. Press the WPS Button on Your Router: Within two minutes of activating WPS on the printer, press the WPS button on your router. This allows the router and printer to communicate and establish a connection.
3. Wait for the Connection to Complete: The Wireless light on the printer will stop blinking and remain solid once the connection is successful.

Method 2: Manual WiFi Setup Using the HP Smart App (Mobile Devices)

If your router does not support WPS or you prefer to use a mobile device for the setup, the HP Smart App provides an intuitive way to connect your printer to WiFi. This app is available on both iOS and Android devices.

1. Download the HP Smart App: If you don’t already have it, download and install the HP Smart App from your device’s app store.
2. Open the HP Smart App: Launch the app and tap the plus sign (+) to add a new printer. The app will automatically search for available printers in your network.
3. Select Your Printer: Once the HP LaserJet Pro M118dw appears in the list of detected printers, select it.
4. Follow the On-Screen Instructions: The app will guide you through connecting the printer to your WiFi network. You’ll need to enter your network’s SSID and password when prompted.
5. Complete the Setup: After entering the required information, the app will confirm that your printer is connected to the WiFi network.

Method 3: Manual WiFi Setup Using Printer Software (Computer)

Another method involves setting up the WiFi connection using your computer. This method works well for both Windows and Mac users.

1. Download the Printer Software: Go to the official HP website and download the latest drivers and software for the HP LaserJet Pro M118dw.
2. Install the Software: Run the downloaded installation file and follow the on-screen instructions. When prompted to choose a connection type, select “Wireless.”
3. Search for Printers: The software will search for available printers on the network. Make sure your printer is turned on and in range.
4. Connect to WiFi: Once the printer is detected, enter your WiFi network’s SSID and password. The software will complete the connection and confirm it on your screen.
5. Finish Installation: After connecting the printer to WiFi, complete the rest of the installation to ensure the drivers are properly set up.

Step 3: Install the Necessary Software and Drivers

Now that your printer is connected to the WiFi network, it’s time to install the drivers and software on your device to enable wireless printing.

For Windows Users:

1. Download the Drivers: Visit the HP website and download the latest drivers for Windows.
2. Install the Drivers: Double-click the installer file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
3. Choose Wireless Setup: When prompted, select the wireless connection option, and the software will detect the printer on your network.
4. Complete Installation: Finish the installation process, and you’ll be ready to print wirelessly from your Windows device.

For Mac Users:

1. Download the Mac Drivers: Go to HP’s website and download the drivers for macOS.
2. Install the Drivers: Open the installer package and follow the instructions to install the software on your Mac.
3. Connect to the Printer: During installation, select the wireless setup option, and your Mac will automatically detect the printer on the WiFi network.
4. Finalize the Setup: Complete the installation, and your Mac will be ready to print wirelessly.

Step 4: Print a Test Page

Once the printer is connected to WiFi and the necessary software is installed, it’s time to test the connection by printing a test page.

1. Open a Document: Open any document, image, or webpage on your device.
2. Select Print: From the “File” menu, select “Print.”
3. Choose the Printer: From the list of available printers, choose your HP LaserJet Pro M118dw.
4. Print the Document: Click “Print” and wait for the test page to be printed. If the page prints successfully, the setup is complete.

Troubleshooting Common WiFi Connection Issues

Despite following the steps above, you might encounter some issues while trying to connect your HP LaserJet Pro M118dw to WiFi. Here are common problems and troubleshooting tips:

1. Printer Not Detected During Setup

• Solution: Ensure that the printer is within the range of your WiFi router. Restart the printer, router, and computer or mobile device. Check if the WiFi network is working correctly.

2. Incorrect WiFi Password

• Solution: Double-check that you are entering the correct WiFi network password (SSID). Ensure there are no spaces or typing errors.

3. WiFi Connection Drops Frequently

• Solution: If the printer frequently disconnects from the WiFi network, try moving it closer to the router. Check for possible interference from other electronic devices. You might also need to reset the network settings on the printer.

4. Printer Appears Offline

• Solution: If your printer is connected to WiFi but appears offline, restart both the printer and the router. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, try reinstalling the printer drivers and software.

Additional Tips for a Smooth WiFi Setup

• Keep Your Router Firmware Updated: Sometimes, outdated router firmware can cause connection issues. Check for updates and apply them if necessary.
• Ensure Devices Are on the Same Network: Ensure that the computer or mobile device you’re using to set up the printer is on the same WiFi network as the printer.
• Use the HP Smart App for Diagnostics: The HP Smart App offers troubleshooting tools that can help diagnose and resolve WiFi connection issues.

Conclusion

Connecting your HP LaserJet Pro M118dw to a WiFi network can greatly enhance your printing experience by providing wireless access from various devices. Whether you choose the WPS method, manual setup via the HP Smart App, or use a computer-based setup, this guide covers all the necessary steps to ensure a smooth and hassle-free connection process.

By following these steps, you can overcome any potential issues and enjoy the convenience of wireless printing in your home or office. With the right preparation and attention to detail, your HP LaserJet Pro M118dw will be ready to handle all your wireless printing needs in no time.