Adding a printer to your Windows device is usually a straightforward process, allowing you to quickly print documents, photos, and more. In many cases, Windows automatically detects and installs printers when they are connected. However, sometimes you may need to manually add a printer. This guide will walk you through the steps on how to add a printer in Windows, covering various printer types and connection methods.
Adding a Local or Wired Printer
Local printers, also known as wired printers, connect directly to your computer using a USB cable. Here’s how to add a local printer to your Windows device:
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Ensure Physical Connection and Power: First, make sure your printer is properly plugged into your Windows device, typically via a USB cable. Also, verify that the printer is powered on.
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Access Printer Settings: On your Windows device, right-click the Start menu, and then select Settings. Navigate to Bluetooth & devices and click on Printers & scanners. Alternatively, you can use this shortcut: Open Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
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Check for Existing Installation: In the Printers & scanners window, review the list of installed printers. Your printer might already be listed if Windows automatically installed it.
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Add a New Printer: If your printer isn’t listed, click the Add device button located next to Add a printer & scanner.
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Select Your Printer: Windows will start searching for available printers. After a few moments, a list of detected printers will appear. Locate your printer in the list and click the Add device button next to it.
Alt text: Adding a printer device through Windows settings, the ‘Add device’ button is highlighted for adding a new printer or scanner.
Note:
- In some instances, the printer might be added automatically after clicking Add device, without requiring further interaction.
- After installation, it’s recommended to check for updated drivers through Windows Update to ensure optimal performance. You might see a “Find drivers” button, but using Windows Update is generally the best approach for driver updates.
- If your printer isn’t found automatically, you can select “Add a new device manually” under “The printer that I want isn’t listed”. This option will guide you through manual setup.
- If you still encounter issues, refer to the Fix printer connection and printing problems in Windows article for further troubleshooting steps.
Adding a Network or Wireless Printer
For network or wireless printers, ensure that the printer is connected to the same network as your Windows device.
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Network Connection and Power: Verify that your network printer is turned on and connected to your network. For wireless printers, confirm it’s on the same Wi-Fi network as your computer. Refer to your printer’s documentation for network connection instructions.
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Access Printer Settings: On your Windows device, go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners, using the same steps as for a local printer. You can also use the shortcut: Open Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
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Check for Existing Installation: Examine the list of installed printers in the Printers & scanners window to see if your network printer is already installed.
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Add a New Printer: If it’s not listed, click the Add device button.
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Select Your Network Printer: Windows will search for printers on your network. This process might take a few minutes. Once the list populates, find your network printer and click Add device.
Alt text: List of installed devices in Windows Printers & scanners settings, showing various printer and scanner models.
Note:
- Similar to local printers, Windows Update is the best source for updated drivers after installing a network printer.
- If your printer isn’t automatically detected, use the “Add a new device manually” option.
- For persistent problems, the Fix printer connection and printing problems in Windows article provides helpful solutions.
Adding a Bluetooth Printer
To add a Bluetooth printer, consult the dedicated guide: Pair a Bluetooth printer or scanner. This article provides detailed steps for connecting Bluetooth printers and scanners.
Removing an Installed Printer
If you need to remove a printer from your Windows device, follow these steps:
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Access Printer Settings: Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners. You can use the shortcut: Open Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
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Select Printer to Remove: In the Printers & scanners window, click on the printer you wish to remove from the list.
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Remove the Printer: On the printer’s page, click the Remove button to uninstall the printer.
Alt text: Printer device options in Windows settings, the ‘Remove’ button is highlighted for uninstalling the selected printer device.
Important Note for ARM PCs
Microsoft has identified an issue where some ARM-based PCs may encounter difficulties installing printers using manufacturer-provided installers. If you are using an ARM PC and face issues, try the manual installation methods described above or refer to your printer manufacturer’s support resources for ARM-specific instructions.
Conclusion
Adding a printer in Windows is generally a simple process. By following these steps, you should be able to successfully connect and use your local, network, or wireless printer. Remember to check for driver updates and utilize the troubleshooting resources if you encounter any problems. With your printer successfully installed, you can enjoy seamless printing from your Windows device.
