Whether you have a wired printer connected via USB, a wireless printer on a Wi-Fi network, or a Bluetooth printer, setting up a printer in Windows 11 is easy. Windows can also install printer drivers automatically.
Content
- Adding a Printer in Windows 11
- Troubleshooting the Printer
- Reboot Windows 11
- Double check the instructions
- Manufacturer drivers
Adding a Printer in Windows 11
First, make sure your printer is turned on and connected to the network if it is a wired printer. If it’s a Wi-Fi printer, make sure it’s connected to the same network as your computer.
Windows 11 automatically downloads the software required to run your printer when you add a device.
To add a printer, click the “Start” button, type “Settings” in the search bar, and clickEnter. Also, you can clickWindows + ito open settings. On the left side of the “Settings” menu, click “Bluetooth and Devices”.
On the next page, click Printers and Scanners.
Click “Add a device” in the upper right corner of the “Printers and Scanners” page. Windows will try to detect your printer. Let it run for a bit – say 30 seconds to a minute. Depending on your PC and printer, it may take some time to correctly identify the printer.
If your printer is not displayed, click “Add manually” A pop-up window will offer several options.
Select “My printer is a bit old. Help me find him.” if you have connected the printer to your computer. If it is a network or other wireless printer, select “Add a Bluetooth, wireless or network discoverable printer”.
After you have made your choice, click “Next”
If Windows 11 detects the printer, follow the on-screen instructions.
Troubleshooting the Printer
Unfortunately, printers are notoriously fickle. Here are some general troubleshooting steps you can take to try and resolve detection or printing issues.
Reboot Windows 11
Restarting your computer can solve a huge number of problems. If your printer is not detected or detected but not working correctly, restart your computer. may fix the problem.
Double check the instructions
Many printers sold today have smart and wireless features. This adds convenience, but also introduces more places where problems can occur. Make sure that all setup instructions that come with your printer are strictly followed and that any connections to your computer are secure.
Manufacturer drivers
If your printer has more advanced features like a multifunction device, or if Windows 11 didn’t install the printer drivers correctly, you may need to download drivers from the manufacturer. Use the disc that came with your printer, if you have one. Otherwise, go to the manufacturer’s website – drivers are usually located in Support > Downloads or Support > Drivers and Software. Below are links to printer driver pages from several common manufacturers.
- Brother
- Canon
- Epson
- HP
- Lexmark
Once your printer is up and running, you can manage printer settings or set your printer as the default print device. If you need to print several different things all the time, consider setting up the printer multiple times with different settings to save time.
