LaserJet Pro MFP M281FDW hangs when searching for wireless networks

[adamui96]

I have a LaserJet Pro MFP M281fdw that has worked perfectly for several years.  A few months ago, it dropped the wifi connection.  I have tried resets, reboots (of the printer and my home network), etc.  Every time, when I try to run the wireless setup wizard, the printer hangs when searching for available wireless networks.  When I moved the printer closer to my router and tried to connect via an ethernet cable, there is still no connection and I can't get an IP address.  My home network is fine - Plenty of other devices are finding and connected to it with no issue.  I have seen other community posts where a support agent reaches out with a private message to do some sort of reset with information that is specific to the individual's printer.  I assume I'm in that same boat.  

I am running MacOS Ventura 13.5.1 on our laptop, and iOS 16.6 from our phones.

Help!

[Raj_05]

Hi @adamui96,

Welcome to HP Support Community.  

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

If your HP LaserJet Pro MFP M281FDW is hanging when searching for wireless networks, it can be a frustrating issue. There are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve this problem.

Restart the Printer: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve connectivity issues. Turn off the printer, wait for a few seconds, and then turn it back on.

Check Wireless Signal: Ensure that your printer is within range of your Wi-Fi router and that the Wi-Fi signal is strong enough for a stable connection.

Reset Network Settings: You can try resetting the printer's network settings to default. To do this:

• Go to the printer's control panel.
• Navigate to the Network or Wireless menu.
• Look for an option like "Restore Network Settings" or "Network Defaults" and select it.

Update Firmware: Outdated firmware can cause connectivity issues. Check if there is a firmware update available for your printer on the HP support website and update it if necessary.

Check Wireless Configuration: Ensure that your Wi-Fi settings on the printer are correctly configured. Double-check the SSID (Wi-Fi network name) and password. You may need to re-enter your Wi-Fi credentials.

Use WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup): If your router supports WPS, you can use this feature to simplify the connection process. On the printer, look for the WPS button or option and follow the on-screen instructions to connect.

Check for Interference: Wireless interference from other devices can disrupt the printer's connection. Make sure there are no other electronic devices causing interference near the printer and router.

Factory Reset: As a last resort, you can perform a factory reset on your printer to return it to its default settings. Keep in mind that this will erase all custom settings, so be prepared to reconfigure the printer afterward. Consult your printer's manual for instructions on how to perform a factory reset.

I hope this helps. 
 

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4
HP Support