Setting up the HP Laser MFP 1188fnw involves three main phases: the physical unboxing, installing the drivers,
and connecting it to your wireless network.
and connecting it to your wireless network.
Since this is an "fnw" model, it includes Fax, Network (Ethernet), and Wireless capabilities.
Phase 1: Hardware Unboxing & Setup
Before connecting any cables to your computer, get the printer ready.
* Unpack & Tape: Remove all blue/orange packing tape from the exterior and the scanner glass.
* Install Toner: HP Laser MFP 1188fnw
* Lift the scanner assembly and open the top cover to access the inner toner area.
* Remove the new toner cartridge from its bag.
* Crucial: Shake the toner gently side-to-side (5-6 times) to distribute the powder.
* Remove the orange protective clip and pull out the sealing tape (pull it straight out).
* Slide the toner into the printer until it clicks, then close the scanner unit.
* Load Paper:
* Pull out the input tray at the bottom.
* Slide the paper width guides to the edge (don't bend the paper).
* Insert a stack of plain A4 paper and push the tray back in.
* Power On:HP Laser MFP 1188fnw
* Connect the power cord to the wall and the back of the printer.
* Press the Power button.
* On the 2-line LCD control panel, use the arrow keys to select your Language and Country, then press OK.
Phase 2: Driver & Software Installation
Important: Do not plug the USB cable into your computer yet. The installer will tell you when to do so.
* Download Drivers:
* Go to the HP Support Website.
* Search for "HP Laser MFP 1188fnw".
* Download the "Full Solution Software" (this includes drivers for printing, scanning, and faxing).
* Run the Installer:
* Open the downloaded file.
* Check the box to agree to the terms and click Next.
* Select your connection type:
* Wireless: Choose this if you want to print over Wi-Fi.
* USB: Choose this for a direct cable connection.
* Wired Network: Choose this if connecting via Ethernet cable to a router.
Phase 3: Wireless Setup (Wi-Fi)
There are two easy ways to connect this printer to Wi-Fi.
Option A: Using the WPS Button (Easiest)
If your router has a WPS button (often marked with a circular arrows icon):
* Press and hold the Wireless button on the printer control panel for about 3-5 seconds until the status light starts blinking.
* Within 2 minutes, press the WPS button on your router.
* The printer light should stop blinking and stay solid blue, indicating a successful connection.
Option B: Using the HP Smart App (Mobile)
* Install the HP Smart app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
* Ensure your phone is connected to the Wi-Fi network you want the printer to join.
* Open the app and tap Add Printer (or the + sign).
* The app should detect the printer (it might appear as "HP Laser MFP 1188" or similar). Follow the on-screen prompts to share your Wi-Fi password with the printer.
Phase 4: Fax Setup (Optional)
Since you have the "f" model:
* Connect a standard telephone line cord to the "Line In" port on the back of the printer.
* You can configure fax settings (like number of rings to answer) via the printer's LCD menu: Menu > Fax Setup > Receive Mode.
Troubleshooting Tips HP Laser MFP 1188fnw
* Paper Jams: If paper jams, do not pull it forcefully. Open the scanner unit and the inner cover to release the pressure before gently pulling the paper out.
* Scanner Error: If the scanner isn't working, ensure you installed the "Full Solution" driver, which includes the HP Scan software.
Would you like me to find the specific driver download link for your operating system (Windows 10, 11, or Mac)?