How to Add a Printer on Windows

Adding a printer to Windows connects your computer to a local or network printer for printing documents and photos. Windows can automatically detect most USB printers and many wireless printers on your network.

1. Open Windows Settings. Press Windows key + I to open Settings. Click on Bluetooth & devices in the left sidebar. Select Printers & scanners from the main panel.
2. Click Add Device. Click the Add device button next to 'Add printer or scanner'. Windows will automatically search for available printers on your network and connected via USB.
3. Select your printer from the list. When your printer appears in the list, click on it and then click Add device. Windows will automatically download and install the necessary drivers for most modern printers.
4. Add printer manually if not detected. If your printer doesn't appear automatically, click 'Add manually' at the bottom of the search results. Choose whether to add a local printer or a network printer by IP address.
5. Install drivers if prompted. Follow the on-screen prompts to select your printer manufacturer and model. Windows will either use built-in drivers or prompt you to download them from Windows Update.
6. Test the printer connection. Once installed, click on your printer name in the Printers & scanners list and select Print test page. This confirms the printer is properly connected and configured.