Skip to content
Follow
Windows 🟢 Beginner

How to let Windows 11 Set the last printer used as the default printer

Richard
Written by
Richard
Jun 19, 2026 2 min read
Windows 11 settings screen displaying printers and scanners with options to add, manage, or remove devices
Windows 11 settings screen displaying printers and scanners with options to add, manage, or remove devices

Windows 11 can automatically set your last-used printer as the default, saving you time and frustration.

This setting means your computer remembers which printer you just printed to and makes that one the default for your next print job.

This helpful feature helps avoid sending single-page prints to a large office printer, for example.

You can easily turn this on in Windows 11’s Settings app.

Here’s how to make Windows 11 pick the printer you last used automatically.

⚡ Quick Answer

Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners and turn the “Let Windows manage my default printer” option to On. Windows will then automatically use the printer you last printed to as the default.

Make Windows Your Printing Helper

Windows can automatically set your last used printer as the default, which is super handy if you print from different locations or use multiple printers.

Let’s learn how to set these options for better printing.

Option 1Windows Picks the Last Printer Used

This tells Windows to be smart about how you print. You don’t have to remember to change the default printer. Windows will remember for you. It’s like having a helper who knows you just printed a photo and might want to use the photo printer next.

Step 1Open Printer Settings

Open your Windows settings by clicking the Start button (usually bottom-left), then select Settings (the gear icon). Navigate to ‘ Bluetooth & devices,’ and then click on ‘Printers & scanners.’

Windows 11 Printers and scanners settings tile in Settings app.
Windows 11 Printers and scanners settings tile in Settings app.

Step 2Let Windows Manage Your Default Printer

In the Printers & scanners settings, look for “Printer preferences” or something similar. Look for a switch or box labeled ‘Let Windows manage my default printer’. Turn this option On.

Windows 11 setting to let Windows manage the default printer.
Windows 11 setting to let Windows manage the default printer.

Step 3Confirm the Setting

Once you’ve turned on the ‘Let Windows manage my default printer’ option, your PC will automatically select the printer you last printed to as the default for your next print job.

Reference:

Summary

Letting Windows manage your default printer means it will automatically pick the printer you used last, saving you the hassle of switching it manually.

Was this guide helpful?

Tags: #Windows 11
Was this helpful?
Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

📚 Related Tutorials

How to Find Out How Many Cores Processor your PC has with Windows 11
Windows How to Find Out How Many Cores Processor your PC has with Windows 11
How to disable the Bluetooth Power Saving feature in Windows 11
Windows How to disable the Bluetooth Power Saving feature in Windows 11
How to Turn On System Protection in Windows 11
Windows How to Turn On System Protection in Windows 11
How to Reinstall Windows 11 Using Your Recovery Drive
Windows How to Reinstall Windows 11 Using Your Recovery Drive

No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *