How to add a printer in Windows

Connect the printer

1. 1

   Prepare the connection

   For wireless setup, connect the printer and PC to the same network. For USB, connect the printer directly and turn it on; Windows normally attempts installation automatically.

   Source: Microsoft Support — Add or install a printer in Windows
2. 2

   Open Printers & scanners

   On Windows 11, open Settings, Bluetooth & devices, then Printers & scanners. Windows 10 uses Settings, Devices, then Printers & scanners, but free Windows 10 support ended October 14, 2025.

   Source: Microsoft Support — Add or install a printer in Windows
3. 3

   Add the printer

   Choose Add device and allow the list to finish loading. Select Add device next to the intended printer.

   Source: Microsoft Support — Add or install a printer in Windows
4. 4

   Use manual addition only if needed

   If the printer does not appear, choose the option for a printer that is not listed and follow the manual prompts. Verify the network connection before entering an address.

   Source: Microsoft Support — Add or install a printer in Windows
5. 5

   Check for the current driver

   After installation, check Windows Update. If Windows cannot supply a suitable driver, use the official manufacturer support page for the exact model.

   Source: Microsoft Support — Download and install the latest printer drivers
6. 6

   Run a test print

   Open the installed printer and print a test page. Confirm the job leaves the queue and the correct printer produces it.

   Source: Microsoft Support — Add or install a printer in Windows

If it did not work

Choose the symptom that best matches what happened. These links lead to the existing diagnostic pages rather than repeating generic setup steps.

• Install a printer driverUse trusted sources for required software.
• Driver will not installFix an installation failure.
• Printer shows offlineRepair availability after setup.
• Print queue is stuckClear jobs that never reach the printer.