Follow these four setup checks
Check the network first, connect the printer, set its static address, then install the manufacturer’s driver.
Step 1 of 4
In this guide
Check the computer and printer network
Check the computer and printer network
Before setting up Windows 11, check that the printer and computer share the same subnet — the same local network segment. Without the correct network connection, Windows will not find the printer.
- Keep the computer and printer together on the main network, rather than putting one on guest Wi-Fi. Guest networks use AP Isolation, a setting that stops devices communicating with each other.
- Older printers may support only the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi band. Where the router gives its 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks different names, use the 2.4 GHz network for both devices during setup.
If the printer shows up and prints, you're done.
Get the printer online
Get the printer online
- Wi-Fi: on the printer’s control panel, go to Settings > Network/Wireless > Wireless Setup Wizard. Choose the SSID (your Wi-Fi network name), then enter the password for WPA2/WPA3 (Wi-Fi security standards). Wait until the wireless indicator stays solid.
- Ethernet: use a Cat5e/Cat6 cable (types of Ethernet network cable) between the printer and a LAN port on the router or network switch. The network-port lights should flash green/amber.
If the printer shows up and prints, you're done.
Find the IP address and make it static
Find the IP address and make it static
On the printer’s screen, find Network Status, TCP/IP or Wi-Fi Settings. Look for its IP address — its address on the local network. Common examples begin with 192.168.1.X or 10.0.0.X; one example is 192.168.1.45.
Choose static IP (a manually set, fixed network address) instead of DHCP (automatic address assignment). For example, change 192.168.1.45 to 192.168.1.220 by replacing the final number.
Pick an address that no other device uses. If you're not sure which addresses are free, contact us.
Save the setting, leave the menu and restart the printer.
If the printer shows up and prints, you're done.
Install the manufacturer’s driver
Install the manufacturer’s driver
- Find the exact model, then search Google for its drivers. Download only from the printer maker’s own website.
- If a full software-and-driver package is offered, choose that rather than a shortcut to a Smart App alone.
- Run the downloaded setup program. It searches the network for the configured printer and adds the manufacturer’s software features over the generic Windows driver.
Printer set up but not printing? See our printer not printing guide
Print a test page. If it prints, you're done.
Book IT supportFrequently asked questions
What does same subnet mean?
It means the computer and printer share the same local network segment. This guide begins by checking that connection before Windows setup.
What is the SSID?
It is the name of your Wi-Fi network. Select it in the printer’s Wireless Setup Wizard and enter the Wi-Fi password.
What is the difference between DHCP and a static IP?
DHCP assigns an address automatically. A static IP is a fixed address entered manually. This guide uses the static method.
Which address should I choose?
Use an address that is not used by another device. If you cannot tell which addresses are available, contact us.
Where should I get the printer software?
Find the printer’s model and get its driver from the manufacturer’s official website. Use the full software-and-driver package when one is available, then test a printed page.
