Whether by USB or WiFi, here's the full process for connecting a printer to a laptop for the first time.
Connect via USB for the simplest setup, or add the printer wirelessly through your laptop's printer settings once it's joined your WiFi network.
Quick Checks Before Troubleshooting
- Decide whether you want a wired (USB) or wireless (WiFi) connection.
- Have your WiFi password ready if connecting wirelessly.
1. Choose USB or WiFi
USB is simpler and doesn't require network setup; WiFi allows printing from anywhere on your network.
2. For USB: Connect the Cable
Plug the printer directly into your laptop and allow Windows or macOS to install drivers automatically.
3. For WiFi: Join the Network First
Set up the printer on your WiFi network using its own control panel before adding it to your laptop.
4. Add the Printer in System Settings
Search for and select the printer from your laptop's printer settings menu.
5. Install the Manufacturer Driver
For the most reliable results, install the full driver package rather than relying on generic OS drivers.
6. Print a Test Page
Confirm everything is working with a simple test document.
What If It's Still Not Fixed?
If you've worked through every step above and the problem continues, it's worth checking a nearby cause rather than repeating the same steps. The guides below cover the most common related issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
People Also Ask
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Confirm the printer and computer share the same network, enable network discovery, and restart both devices before searching again. Read the full guide →
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Restart the printer and computer, clear the print queue, confirm the correct printer is set as default, check the connection, and reinstall the driver if the problem continues. Read the full guide →
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Remove and reinsert the new cartridge firmly, then power cycle the printer so it re-reads the ink level chip. Read the full guide →
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Confirm your phone and printer are on the same WiFi network, then update or reinstall your printer's mobile app. Read the full guide →