LaserJet M281fdw cannot connect to Wi-Fi 6 network

[PhoneEar]

I recently upgraded my network to Amazon eero Pro 6E devices which provide a Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) mesh network.

Since the upgrade, my m281fdw can see the network, but cannot establish an internet connection.

Switching the eero devices to “legacy mode” allows the printer to connect.

Is there a firmware or hardware update available to correct this issue?

[Raj_05]

Hi @PhoneEar,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

To resolve the issue with your HP LaserJet M281fdw not connecting to your Wi-Fi 6 network (802.11ax) provided by Amazon eero Pro 6E devices, here are a few steps you can take.

Check for Firmware Updates:

• Ensure that your HP LaserJet M281fdw has the latest firmware installed. Firmware updates often include fixes for connectivity issues and compatibility with newer network standards like Wi-Fi 6.
• You can check for firmware updates directly from the printer's control panel or through HP's support website. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully when updating the firmware.

Network Configuration:

• Double-check the Wi-Fi settings on your printer. Ensure that you are entering the correct Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password.
• Consider restarting both your printer and the eero Pro 6E devices after ensuring that all settings are correct.

Driver and Software Update:

• Make sure that your printer driver and software are up to date on your computer or device that you use to connect to the printer. Sometimes, updating the driver can resolve connectivity issues.

Compatibility Considerations:

• Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) is relatively new, and some older devices may require updates or adjustments to work properly with it. Confirm that your printer's specifications support Wi-Fi 6, and ensure that any settings or configurations on the eero Pro 6E devices are compatible with your printer.

By following these steps, you should be able to troubleshoot and resolve the connectivity issue between your HP LaserJet M281fdw printer and your Wi-Fi 6 network provided by Amazon eero Pro 6E devices.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4

HP Support 

[PhoneEar]

Thank you, @Alden4.

I think the root of the issue is that the Wi-Fi module for this device is not compatible with 802.11ax, which forces the network to fall back to a legacy mode to maintain communications. For most of the legacy devices on my network, this is not an issue, and somehow, they negotiate this with the network devices. In the case of the printer, however, I have to force the network to legacy mode to enable the negotiation, which locks the entire network into this legacy mode, negating any speed increases I might have achieved by upgrading to ax.

I am on the; latest HP firmware, and currently using Ethernet. This might be my solution for the remaining life of this printer, unless a Wi-Fi upgrade becomes available.

[Raj_05]

Hi @PhoneEar,

Thank you for your response, 

I'm sending a private message to assist you with the next action.

Please check your Private message icon on the upper right corner of your HP Community profile Next, to your profile Name, you should see a little blue envelope, please click on it or simply click on this link.

I hope this helps! Keep me posted.

Alden4

HP Support