How to add a printer on Windows 11

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To add a printer on Windows 11, you can use the Settings app or the Control Panel. Both methods allow you to connect to a local or network printer easily, ensuring you have the necessary drivers installed.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before starting the printer installation process, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •Windows 11 operating system installed on your PC.
  • •Printer connected to the same network or directly to your PC via USB.
  • •Administrative privileges to install drivers and configure settings.
  • •Latest printer drivers downloaded from the manufacturer's website, if necessary.

Method 1: Using the Settings App

This method is the most straightforward for adding a printer in Windows 11, especially for networked printers.
  • •Step 1: Click on the 'Start' button (Windows icon) on the taskbar or press the 'Windows' key on your keyboard.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Settings' (gear icon) from the Start menu.
  • •Step 3: In the Settings window, click on 'Devices'.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Printers & scanners' from the left sidebar.
  • •Step 5: Click on the 'Add a printer or scanner' button.
  • •Step 6: Wait for Windows to search for available printers. When your printer appears, click on it and then click 'Add device'.
  • •Step 7: Follow any on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
  • •Step 8: To verify it worked, print a test page by selecting your printer, clicking 'Manage', and then 'Print a test page'.
  • •Step 9: If it doesn't work, check your printer's connection and ensure it is powered on.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 specific steps include a more streamlined interface for adding printers.
  • •Use the 'Add a printer or scanner' button directly in the 'Printers & scanners' section.
  • •If the printer is not found, click on 'The printer that I want isn't listed' for additional options.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users will find similar steps but with slight variations in the interface.
  • •In Windows 10, access 'Settings' via the Start menu, then go to 'Devices' and 'Printers & scanners'.
  • •The 'Add a printer or scanner' button is also available, but the layout may differ slightly.

Method 2: Using Control Panel

This method is useful for users who prefer the traditional Control Panel interface or need to configure advanced printer settings.
  • •Step 1: Press 'Windows + R' to open the Run dialog.
  • •Step 2: Type 'control' and press 'Enter' to open the Control Panel.
  • •Step 3: Click on 'Devices and Printers'.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Add a printer' at the top of the window.
  • •Step 5: Follow the prompts to select your printer and install it.
  • •Step 6: To verify it worked, right-click on the printer icon and select 'Printer properties', then click 'Print Test Page'.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while adding a printer, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Windows cannot connect to the printer' - Solution: Ensure the printer is turned on and connected to the same network.
  • •Issue: Printer not found - Fix: Check that the printer is properly connected and powered on. Restart both the printer and your computer.
  • •Problem: Driver installation fails - Workaround: Download the latest drivers from the printer manufacturer's website and install them manually.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some tips to enhance your printer management experience:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: 'Windows + I' - Opens Settings directly for quick access.
  • •Command line: 'rundll32 printui.dll,PrintUIEntry /il' - Opens the Add Printer wizard directly.
  • •Hidden feature: Use 'Print Management' (available in Windows Pro editions) for advanced printer management.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best experience, always ensure your printer drivers are up to date and that your network settings are correctly configured.