How To Add A Printer In Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

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5 min. read

Published on October 17, 2025

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Adding a printer in Windows 11 can seem daunting, especially if you’re not tech-savvy. However, the process is actually quite straightforward, and this guide will walk you through each step to ensure you can print documents effortlessly. We’ll cover different types of printer connections, from traditional USB to modern wireless options, making sure you can add a printer in Windows 11 no matter your setup.

Whether you’re setting up a new printer for the first time or reinstalling an existing one, this step-by-step guide provides clear instructions and helpful tips. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to easily add and manage your printers in Windows 11.

Need to Add a Printer to Your Windows 11 PC?

Getting Started: Preparing to Add Your Printer

Before diving into the installation process, ensure your printer is properly set up.

Unpack your printer: Remove all packaging materials and connect the power cable.
Turn on your printer: Press the power button and wait for it to boot up.
Gather necessary information: Have your Wi-Fi password ready if you’re connecting wirelessly.

Adding a Wireless Printer

Connecting wirelessly offers flexibility and eliminates the need for cables.

Access Settings: Click the Start button and select “Settings.”
Navigate to Bluetooth & devices: In the Settings menu, click on “Bluetooth & devices.”
Select Printers & scanners: Click “Printers & scanners” on the right-hand side.
Add a printer or scanner: Click the “Add device” button. Windows will start searching for available printers.
Choose your printer: If your printer appears in the list, select it and click “Add device.”
Follow on-screen instructions: Windows will guide you through the remaining setup steps, which may include installing drivers.

Adding a Local Printer (USB Connection)

Connecting via USB is a reliable method for adding your printer.

Connect the USB cable: Plug the USB cable into your printer and your computer.
Wait for Windows to detect the printer: Windows should automatically detect the printer and begin installing the necessary drivers.
Follow on-screen instructions: If prompted, follow any on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
If the printer isn’t detected: If Windows doesn’t automatically detect the printer, follow these steps:

Go to “Settings” > “Bluetooth & devices” > “Printers & scanners.”
Click “Add device.”
If your printer doesn’t appear, click “Add manually.”
Select “Add a local printer or network printer with manual settings” and click “Next.”
Choose the appropriate port (usually USB001 or a similar USB port) and click “Next.”
Select your printer manufacturer and model from the list. If your printer isn’t listed, you may need to install drivers from the manufacturer’s website.
Follow the remaining on-screen instructions.

Setting a Default Printer

Setting a default printer streamlines your printing process.

Access Printers & scanners: Go to “Settings” > “Bluetooth & devices” > “Printers & scanners.”
Select your printer: Click on the printer you want to set as the default.
Set as default: Click the “Set as default” button.

Managing Your Printers

After adding your printer, you can manage its settings.

Access Printer properties: Go to “Settings” > “Bluetooth & devices” > “Printers & scanners” and select your printer.
Explore options: You can change printer settings, update drivers, run test prints, and more.

Tips

Driver Updates: Regularly check for driver updates from the printer manufacturer’s website to ensure optimal performance.
Troubleshooting: If you encounter issues, try restarting your printer and computer. Check the printer’s manual for troubleshooting steps.
Wireless Interference: If you’re using a wireless printer, ensure it’s within range of your Wi-Fi router and that there’s no interference from other devices.
Test Print: After adding your printer, always perform a test print to confirm that it’s working correctly.

Comparing Connection Types

Feature	Wireless Connection	USB Connection
Pros	Convenient, no cables, multiple device support	Reliable, direct connection, generally faster
Cons	Can be affected by Wi-Fi interference, setup can be complex	Requires physical connection, limited to one device
Best For	Homes or offices with multiple users and devices	Single-user setups, critical printing tasks

Printing Made Easy

Adding a printer in Windows 11 doesn’t have to be a hassle. By following these simple steps, you can quickly set up your printer and start printing documents in no time.

FAQ

How do I find my printer’s IP address? You can usually find the IP address in your printer’s network settings, accessible through its control panel or web interface.

What if my printer isn’t listed when I try to add it? Ensure your printer is turned on and connected to the same network as your computer. You may also need to install the latest drivers from the manufacturer’s website.

Can I add a printer that’s connected to another computer on my network? Yes, you can add a network printer by selecting the “Add a network, wireless or Bluetooth printer” option in the “Add a printer” dialog.

How do I update my printer drivers? You can update your printer drivers by visiting the printer manufacturer’s website and downloading the latest drivers for your model.

What should I do if my printer is printing blank pages? Check the ink or toner levels and ensure the cartridges are properly installed. You may also need to clean the print heads.