To connect your HP LaserJet m236sdw printer to Wi-Fi, the easiest methods involve either using Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) or the HP Smart app, which guides you through the process. Ensure your printer is turned on and close to your Wi-Fi router for optimal signal strength during setup.
Quick & Easy Wi-Fi Connection Methods
Connecting your HP LaserJet m236sdw to your wireless network typically involves one of the following straightforward methods:
1. Using Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) - Push Button
This is often the quickest way if your router supports WPS.
- Activate WPS on your printer:
- On your HP LaserJet m236sdw, press and hold the Wireless button for at least 3 seconds, or until the Wireless light starts blinking. This indicates the printer is in WPS connection mode.
- Activate WPS on your router:
- Within two minutes, press the WPS button on your wireless router. This button is usually labeled with the WPS icon (two arrows circling each other) or "WPS."
- The printer's Wireless light will stop blinking and remain solid blue once the connection is successfully established.
2. Via the HP Smart App (Recommended)
The HP Smart app provides a guided setup experience and is highly recommended for first-time connections and managing your printer.
- Download the HP Smart App:
- On your smartphone, tablet, or computer, download and install the HP Smart app from your device's app store (Apple App Store, Google Play Store, Microsoft Store).
- Prepare your printer for setup:
- To activate the printer's Wi-Fi setup mode, first press and hold the Information button for 5 seconds.
- Then, simultaneously press the Resume button and the Wireless button. This puts your printer into a discoverable state for the HP Smart app.
- Add your printer in the app:
- Open the HP Smart app and tap the Add Printer or + icon.
- Select your HP LaserJet m236sdw from the list of available printers. If it doesn't appear immediately, ensure your printer is in setup mode (as per step 2) and your device is connected to the same Wi-Fi network you want the printer to use.
- Follow the in-app instructions:
- The app will guide you through connecting your printer to your Wi-Fi network. You may need to confirm your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and enter the password.
3. Manual Connection from Printer Control Panel (if applicable)
While the m236sdw has a simplified control panel, some HP models allow direct Wi-Fi configuration. If the WPS or HP Smart app methods don't work, you might be able to configure it more directly, though the HP Smart app typically handles this effectively after the initial setup mode activation.
- For printers with a small display: Navigate to the Wireless Settings or Network Setup menu, choose Wi-Fi Setup Wizard, and follow the on-screen prompts to select your network and enter the password.
Troubleshooting Common Wi-Fi Connection Issues
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Printer doesn't connect | Incorrect Wi-Fi password, router too far, signal interference | Double-check your Wi-Fi password. Move the printer closer to the router. Ensure no large objects or electronics are blocking the signal. Restart your router and printer. |
| Wireless light blinking | Not connected, in setup mode, or connection lost | If blinking slowly, it's looking for a connection. If blinking rapidly, there might be an error. Try the WPS method or HP Smart app setup again. Restart the printer and router. |
| Printer not found by HP Smart App | Printer not in setup mode, network issues, app glitch | Ensure you've put the printer into Wi-Fi setup mode (press and hold Information for 5 seconds, then press Resume and Wireless simultaneously). Check that your mobile device is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as you want the printer to use. Restart the app and device. |
| Slow or intermittent connection | Wi-Fi channel congestion, outdated router firmware, printer interference | Try changing the Wi-Fi channel on your router (consult your router's manual). Update your router's firmware. Ensure no other high-bandwidth devices are interfering. |
For further assistance, always refer to the official HP Support website for your specific printer model.
