How to Install a Printer in Windows 11

This post shows students and new users how to install a new multi-function printer in Windows 11 to print and scan documents.

Learning how to add printers to Windows 11 is important because it lets you print and scan documents directly from your computer. Installing a printer on your computer can save you time and effort if you need to print an important document for work, school, or personal use.

Additionally, scanning physical documents and converting them into digital format can help you keep important records organized and easily accessible.

Knowing how to add printers to Windows 11 can also be useful when setting up a new computer or when you need to troubleshoot printer-related issues.

To get started with adding new printers to Windows 11, use the steps below:

Install a local printer in Windows 11

Today, adding a printer to a Windows computer is very easy. In most cases, all you have to do to set up a printer is to connect it to your computer.

Plug the USB cable from your printer into an available USB port on your computer, and turn the printer on. Windows should automatically install the printer drivers and configure them to work.

If that doesn’t work, here’s a way to do it manually. 

Windows 11 has a centralized location for the majority of its settings. Everything can be done, from system configurations to creating new users and updating Windows from its System Settings pane.

To get to System Settings, you can use the Windows key + I shortcut or click on Start ==> Settings, as shown in the image below:

Alternatively, you can use the search box on the taskbar and search for Settings. Then select to open it.

Windows Settings pane should look similar to the image below. In Windows Settings, click Bluetooth & devices, then select Printers & Scanners on the right pane of your screen, as shown in the image below.

Click Add a printer or scanner button on the Printer & Scanner settings page. 

Wait for Windows 11 to find nearby printers, choose the one you want to use from the list, and select Add device.

If you get a message, “The printer that I want isn’t listed,” click Add manually, as highlighted in the section below.

Choose “Add a local printer or network printer with manual settings” as highlighted below:

Next, select Use an existing post, then select the port on the list the printer is connected to—usually a USB port.

If you have a CD or a download link to download the drivers for the printer, insert the CD or download it from the manufacturer’s website.

It should also come with a driver CD or link to download the drivers from the manufacturer’s website. Visit the manufacturer’s website for the drivers of the printer.

Next, go and install the printer driver. Click the button Have Disk.

Then, browse to the location where the driver is saved. Browser the driver’s folder and select it. Then install it. Complete and test the printer.

Add a Wireless printer.

Some printers are wireless-enabled and work over wireless connections. If your printer is connected to the network via wired or Wi-Fi and is turned on, Windows should also find it automatically.

Windows can find all available printers on a network, such as Bluetooth and wireless printers, plugged into another device and shared on the network.

Here’s a way to do it manually. 

1. Select Start  > Settings  > Devices > Printers & Scanners, or use the following button. 
2. Select Add a printer or scanner. Please wait for it to find nearby scanners, then choose the one you want to use and select Add device.

If your printer isn’t on the list, select The printer I want isn’t listed, and then follow the instructions to add it manually.

You should be able to find a wireless or network printer when you follow the wizard above.

If the wireless printer hasn’t been added to your home network, try reading the manual with the printer to find help installing it in Windows.

It should also come with a driver CD or link to download the drivers from the manufacturer’s website.

Conclusion:

Installing a multi-function printer in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that enhances your ability to print, scan, and manage documents efficiently. Here are some key takeaways:

• Easy Installation: Most printers can be connected and installed automatically via USB or wirelessly.
• Accessing Settings: Utilize the System Settings pane to manage printers and troubleshoot issues.
• Manual Setup: If automatic detection fails, you can manually add printers through the settings.
• Driver Installation: Ensure you have the necessary drivers, either from a CD or the manufacturer’s website, for optimal functionality.
• Wireless Connectivity: A range of wireless printers can be accessed as long as they are connected to your network.
• Helpful Resources: Always refer to the printer’s manual for additional installation and troubleshooting guidance.

By following these steps, users can effectively set up and utilize their printers to streamline their document handling tasks.