Traditionally, the printer was connected only with one computer and all the printing tasks were done only by using that printer. But, the introduction of the network printer has improved the printing capabilities by allowing the users to print the document from any device connected to the printer over the network. Now, you have a question: how to setup a network printer? Well! You just need to follow some simple guidelines and you can easily complete the task.
In this guide, we are going to share the simple instructions that will let you set up the Network printer for your Windows device. So, read the guide carefully and complete the setup process without any hassle.
Before you configure the network printer, check for the following requirements:
- Update the settings of your printer ( such as DHCP addressing or WPA wireless Encryption key) as they are important to join the local network.
- If you have an ethernet capable printer, you can connect the printer to the local network.
- If you have a wireless printer, you can connect the printer to a router or wireless access point.
- The network printers allow the users to enter configuration data using the small keypad or the front unit screen. The screen also shows the error message which helps the user in printer troubleshooting.
Set up a Network Printer in Windows Computer
All the latest Window versions come with a File and Print sharing feature. That allows the printer connected to one computer to be shared on the other computer on a local network. For this method, the printer must be connected actively to the computer so that all the other devices can reach the printer. To set up a network printer, follow the steps below:
- Enable the sharing on your PC from the ‘Network and Sharing Centre’ in the Control Panel.
- Now, choose the ‘Change Advanced System Settings’ option from the menu appearing on the left hand side and set the option to ‘Turn on file and printer sharing’.
- Close the window and go to the ‘Devices and Printer’ section or you can choose the ‘Printers and Scanners’ option from the start menu.
- Click on the target computer and after that choose printer properties option. Check the ‘Sharing this printer’ box present in the sharing tab.
- You can also install the printer on the computer from the Devices and Printers section. Some of the printers come with Software utility options that help to complete the installation process.
So, this is how to setup a Network Printer in Windows Computer. The mentioned steps are very simple and easy to follow. An active internet connection is very important to print the document using a network printer. So, make sure your wifi or router is working fine. If you are unable to complete the setup after following these instructions, or if you have any doubt related to the setup process, contact your printer professionals for the help and figure out the best solution to fix the problem.
