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Operating System Guide

Printer Setup on Microsoft Windows 11 & Windows 10

Target OS: Windows 11 23H2 / 24H2 & Windows 10 22H2 • Reading time: 7 min

Windows 11 features a streamlined "Printers & scanners" interface designed for WSD (Web Services for Devices) and Mopria network standards. This guide walks you through setting up a wireless or USB printer on Windows 11 and Windows 10, overcoming device discovery blocks and configuring default options.

Prerequisite: Set Windows Network Profile to Private

💡 Why Network Discovery Fails

If your Wi-Fi connection in Windows is classified as "Public", Windows Firewall blocks inbound discovery requests. Go to Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi > [Your Network Name] and select Private network.

Standard Setup: Adding Your Printer in Windows 11

Step 1 Open Printers & Scanners

Click the Windows Start icon, type Printers, and open Printers & scanners.

Step 2 Scan for Devices

Click Add device. Ensure your printer is powered on and connected to the same Wi-Fi SSID. When your printer model appears in the list, click Add device.

Step 3 Prevent Windows from Managing Your Default Printer

In the Printer preferences section at the bottom, toggle Let Windows manage my default printer to OFF. Then click your preferred printer and select Set as default. This prevents print jobs from accidentally routing to OneNote or PDF virtual printers.

Troubleshooting: Windows Cannot Find the Printer

If the printer does not appear after scanning:

  • Click The printer that I want isn't listed > Add manually.
  • Choose Add a printer using an IP address or hostname.
  • Set Device type to TCP/IP Device, type your printer's IP address (e.g. 192.168.1.150), and complete the wizard.

Frequently Asked Questions

This indicates Windows recognizes the hardware identifier but does not have the driver in its built-in repository. Download and install the full software package directly from the manufacturer's website.
Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners > [Select Printer] > Printer properties > click the "Print Test Page" button located on the General tab.

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Printer models, software, operating systems, and network configurations vary. Free official manuals, drivers, and manufacturer diagnostic tools are available directly from respective original equipment manufacturers on their official websites (such as support.hp.com, usa.canon.com, epson.com, and support.brother.com). For full details on our policies, please review our Full Support Disclaimer, Terms of Service, and Transparent Pricing Plans.