Install a printer
Add a USB or wireless printer on Windows 10, Windows 11, or Mac.
Printer guides
Simple printer information for home and office.
Learn how to install a printer, connect it over Wi-Fi, add drivers, and fix common issues. This site is for information only. If you want live help, call or use the chat.
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Popular printer topics
Short guides covering the tasks people search for most when a printer is new, offline, or not printing.
Wi-Fi setup
Connect a wireless printer to the same network as your computer or phone.
Drivers
Find and install the correct printer software so print jobs can start.
Common errors
Fix offline status, paper jams, poor print quality, and queued jobs.
Step by step
How to install a printer
Most modern printers install automatically. Follow the steps for your computer, then print a test page.
Windows 10 and Windows 11
- Turn the printer on and connect it with USB, or join it to Wi-Fi.
- Open Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners.
- Select Add device and wait for Windows to find the printer.
- Choose the printer name and finish the setup wizard.
- Print a test page from the printer properties window.
If Windows does not find it, choose Add manually and enter the printer name or IP address from the printer’s network menu.
Mac
- Turn the printer on and connect USB, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet.
- Open System Settings → Printers & Scanners.
- Select Add Printer, Scanner, or Fax.
- Pick the printer. macOS often uses AirPrint automatically.
- Print a one-page test document from Notes or Preview.
If the printer is not listed, confirm Mac and printer are on the same Wi-Fi network, then add it again.
Wireless printers
How to connect a Wi-Fi printer
- Place the printer close to the router during first setup.
- Use the printer screen or WPS button to join your home or office Wi-Fi.
- Enter the correct Wi-Fi password. A wrong password is the most common setup failure.
- Print a network configuration page from the printer menu and note the IP address.
- On your computer, add the printer using that network connection, not an old USB listing.
- Keep printer, computer, and phone on the same Wi-Fi name. Guest networks often block printing.
Software
How to install printer drivers
A driver is the software that lets the computer talk to the printer. Windows and Mac include basic drivers, but brand software can add scanning, ink status, and extra paper sizes.
Where to get drivers
- Use Windows Update or macOS AirPrint first.
- If printing still fails, download the driver from the printer maker’s support site.
- Match the exact model, for example HP LaserJet, Canon PIXMA, Epson EcoTank, Brother, or Xerox.
- Choose Windows 10/11 64-bit or macOS version as shown on your computer.
After installing
- Restart the computer if the installer asks you to.
- Set the new printer as the default printer.
- Clear old print jobs from the queue.
- Print a test page, then try a document from Word, PDF, or a browser.
Quick answers
Common printer questions
Why does my printer say offline?
The computer cannot reach the printer. Check power, USB cable, Wi-Fi, and that both devices use the same network. Then remove the printer from settings and add it again.
What should I do if paper is jammed?
Turn the printer off, open the paper path, and pull paper out slowly in the direction of travel. Do not force torn pieces. Close all covers before turning it back on.
How do I set a default printer?
On Windows, open Printers & scanners, select the printer, and choose Set as default. On Mac, open Printers & Scanners and pick the default printer from the list.
USB or Wi-Fi — which is better?
USB is simple and stable for one computer. Wi-Fi is better when several people need to print. Ethernet is the most reliable option in an office.