Printer setup and connectivity help
Setting up a new printer, or moving one to a new computer? These steps cover the connection choices — Wi-Fi, USB or Ethernet — and adding the printer to Windows, Mac and mobile devices.
Sounds familiar?
- Your computer can't find the printer
- Setup software stops partway through
- The printer works on one device but not another
- You replaced your computer or router
Quick checks, in order
- 1
Choose one connection type
Decide whether the printer will use Wi-Fi, USB or Ethernet. Mixing setups (for example a USB cable plus a Wi-Fi setup) is a common cause of confusion.
- 2
Keep devices on the same network
Your computer or phone must be on the same Wi-Fi network as the printer — not a guest network or a different band that isolates devices.
- 3
Add the printer from your device's settings
On Windows use Settings › Bluetooth & devices › Printers & scanners. On a Mac use System Settings › Printers & Scanners.
- 4
Use software only from the manufacturer
If your printer needs extra software, download it from the manufacturer's official website. Avoid third-party driver download sites.
These are general steps that work across most brands. Menu names differ between models — if something doesn't match your printer, ask us rather than guessing.
Still stuck? Talk to us.
Call our toll-free line or start a live chat. Tell us your printer model and what you're seeing — we'll take it from there.