Symptom

This topic describes how to connect a wireless printer in Windows. For more information, see Install a printer in Windows 10.

Applicable Systems

Laptops and Desktops

Operating Systems

• Windows 10
• Windows 11

Solution

A. Prepare for the connection

1. Make sure the wireless connection is working fine and the other wireless devices like a phone or laptop can connect and access the internet.
2. Identify your Network name and Network password. This information will be used to find and connect to your network on the wireless printer.
3. Make sure the router and computer are turned on, and that the computer is connected to the same wireless network to which the printer will be connected. Turn on the printer and place it close to the computer and within range of the router during the setup procedure.

B. Connect printer to the wireless network

1. The process for this will vary depending on the printer. The Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password information will be required.
   
   - Many printers allow connecting to the wireless network using the built-in menu system. The following image shows a sample interface. Other printers will have a different interface.
   
   
   
   - If the printer and router both support WPS push-to-connect, simply push the WPS button on the printer, then press the WPS button on the router within two minutes. The connection will be made automatically.
   
   - Some older wireless printers may require connecting to a computer first to set up the wireless connection. This is common if the printer does not have a built-in menu, but does support wireless.
2. Read the printers user guide if you have trouble connecting. If the manual cannot be found, try downloading a PDF copy from the manufacturer's Support site.

C. Installing printer drivers and software on the computer

1. There should be an installation CD that came with the printer. Insert it in the computer and follow the guide.
2. An alternative method to downloading the software and drivers might be to find this on the printer manufacturer website.

D. Add printer to your computer

Some printer software will allow the computer to automatically detect the printer. If this is not the case, follow the instructions on how to manually add the printer using the Windows function.

Windows 10

1. Go to Windows Settings.
   
2. Select Devices.
   
3. Select Printers & scanners.
4. Turn on the printer.
5. Select Add a printer or scanner.
   
6. Add the printer (after the printer search option displays the correct printer).

Windows 11

1. Click Start and then Settings.
   
2. Select Bluetooth & devices and then Printers & scanners.
   
3. Select Add a printer or scanner and then Add device.
   
4. Make sure the printer is on.
5. Add the printer (after the printer search option displays the correct printer).

Related Articles

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