How to Access Devices and Printers in Windows 11
This guide helps you find the Devices and Printers folder in Windows 11.
Access Devices and Printers by opening Settings, navigating to Bluetooth & devices, then clicking More devices and printers settings. Alternatively, press Win+R, type shell:PrintersFolder, and press Enter.
Why use the Devices and Printers folder?
This folder is a central hub for everything plugged into your computer. It lets you see all your connected hardware in one place. You can use it to check if your devices are working, fix connection errors, or change specific settings for your printers and scanners.
What happens when done?
You will be able to manage your equipment or remove devices you no longer use.
Settings App vs. Legacy Control Panel
| Feature | Settings App | Legacy Control Panel |
|---|---|---|
| Device Management | Basic | Advanced |
| Printer Properties | Limited | Full Access |
| Ease of Use | High | Low |
Method 1Open Devices and Printers from the Settings App
You can access the Devices and Printers view in Windows 11 straight from the Settings app. First, open the Settings app by clicking the Start menu and choosing Settings, or by pressing the Win and ‘I’ together. Then, click on ‘Bluetooth & devices’ in the left sidebar. On the right side, select the ‘Devices’ tile. Finally, scroll down and click ‘More devices and printers’ to find your connected hardware.
- Open the Windows Settings app. Click the Start menu and select Settings, or press
Windows key + Ito open it quickly. 
Windows 11 Bluetooth and devices settings page - Click Bluetooth & devices on the left sidebar.
Windows 11 Settings menu showing the Devices tile selection - On the right side, click the Devices tile to see more options.
Selecting More devices and printers settings in Windows 11 - Scroll down and click More devices and printers settings.
The open Devices and Printers folder interface in Windows 11
Method 2Open Devices and Printers Using the Run App
shell:PrintersFolder command.- Press
Win+Ron your keyboard to open the Run box. - Type
shell:PrintersFolderand press Enter. 
Run app box command for devices and printers
Troubleshooting Device Discovery
If your printer or device is missing, try these steps:
- Check if the device is turned on and plugged in.
- Ensure Bluetooth is enabled for wireless devices.
- Check Device installation settings to ensure Windows is allowed to download manufacturer apps.
- Run the Windows Troubleshooter in Settings System Troubleshoot
Summary
The Devices and Printers folder remains a vital tool for managing hardware. While Windows 11 pushes users toward the Settings app, you can still access the legacy view using the shell:PrintersFolder command. Use the troubleshooting steps above if your devices fail to appear.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard is a writer at Geek Rewind who turns complex IT tasks into clear, step-by-step guides. He draws on years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, focusing on Windows, Linux and WordPress: the problems people actually run into, and the fixes that work. His server and WordPress guides come from systems he runs himself. Richard builds and maintains the platform behind Geek Rewind, from its Ubuntu servers and Nginx configuration to its custom WordPress plugins. Many new tutorials start with readers' questions, and he's always glad to answer them in the comments.
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