How to install most printers in Windows 11

Installing most printers on your Windows 11 computer is fairly straight forward. Whether you're using a USB cable or connecting wirelessly, this guide will walk you through the steps necessary.

If you are trying to set up an HP printer, or one of the Ricoh printers, please see the following guides:

• How to install an HP Printer Using the HP Smart App
• Ricoh IM C2510 Printer Setup & Installation Guide (Windows 11)
  
  

If your printer is neither of those brands, please continue using the guide below.

✅ What You’ll Need

Before you begin, make sure you have:

• Your printer powered on

• A USB cable (if it's a wired printer)

• Your Wi-Fi password (for wireless printers)

• Your Windows 11 PC

Option 1: Install a Printer Using a USB Cable (Wired Printer)

Step 1: Plug In Your Printer

• Connect the printer’s USB cable to your computer.

• Turn the printer on.

Step 2: Let Windows Detect the Printer

• Windows 11 will automatically detect and install the printer.

• You may see a notification pop up that says “Installing device.”

Step 3: Confirm Installation

1. Click the Start menu (Windows logo).

2. Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.

3. You should see your printer listed there.

Option 2: Install a Wireless Printer (Wi-Fi)

Step 1: Connect Printer to Wi-Fi

• Use the printer’s control panel (usually a screen with buttons).

• Go to Network or Wireless settings.

• Choose your Wi-Fi network and enter your password.

Tip: Refer to your printer's manual for exact steps. Some printers also support WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) to connect with just a button.

Step 2: Add the Printer in Windows 11

1. Click the Start button.

2. Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.

3. Click Add device.

4. Wait for your printer to show up, then click Add.

Windows will handle the rest!

Step 3: Print a Test Page (Optional but Helpful)

1. Go to Settings > Printers & scanners.

2. Click your printer in the list.

3. Select Printer properties.

4. Click Print Test Page.

If the page prints successfully, you’re all set!

Troubleshooting Tips

• Printer not found? Make sure it’s turned on and connected properly.

• Wi-Fi printer missing? Try restarting both your printer and computer.

• Still not working? Visit the printer manufacturer’s website to download the latest drivers (software).

You’re Done!

Whether your printer uses a USB cable or connects over Wi-Fi, you now know how to install it on a Windows 11 computer. Once installed, your printer will be available in any app that lets you print—like Word, your web browser, or PDF readers.