Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →If a printer works in Windows on the Hyper-V host but not in a Windows virtual machine, first check the VMConnect session: printer sharing is provided through Enhanced Session Mode, not native direct USB passthrough. Confirm the host and guest prerequisites, then enable printer sharing in VMConnect’s Show Options > Local Resources settings and reconnect. If the host itself cannot use the printer, troubleshoot its local connection before changing Hyper-V settings.
1. Check whether the printer works on the Hyper-V host
Print a test page or otherwise confirm that the host can use the printer. If the host cannot detect or print to it, the immediate problem is not guest redirection: check power, the host-side connection, and the printer maker’s instructions for your model. A cable is relevant only if a USB printer is not detected by the host or its cable is damaged; replacing it is not a documented fix for VMConnect printer sharing.
2. Confirm that Enhanced Session Mode is available
Microsoft documents local printer sharing through VMConnect’s Enhanced Session Mode for Windows virtual machines. Its device-sharing instructions say, “This functionality is only available for Windows VMs.” Enhanced Session Mode uses Remote Desktop technology, so both the host configuration and guest capabilities matter.
- On the Hyper-V host, make sure the Enhanced Session Mode policy and setting are enabled.
- For VMConnect local resources, Microsoft specifies a connecting computer running Windows 10 or Windows Server 2016 or later.
- The guest must run Windows 10 or Windows Server 2016 or later, and Remote Desktop Services must be enabled.
See Microsoft’s Enhanced Session Mode device-sharing guidance and VMConnect local-resource requirements for the applicable Windows configuration details.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
3. Verify the active VMConnect session
VMConnect can connect in Basic or Enhanced Session Mode. In the VMConnect toolbar, check the Enhanced Session Mode icon: Microsoft says it indicates the connection type and can be used to switch modes when Enhanced Session Mode is available. A printer selected for local sharing will not help if the VM is connected in Basic Session Mode.
4. Turn on printer sharing in VMConnect
- In VMConnect, connect to the virtual machine and select Show Options.
- Open Local Resources and inspect the resources selected for the connection. Printers are listed as a default Enhanced Session Mode resource, but check that printer sharing is enabled for this connection.
- Apply any change, reconnect to the VM, and check whether the printer is available in the guest.
If the connection dialog or Show Options is missing, Microsoft suggests opening vmconnect.exe independently; an elevated command line is one option. See Microsoft’s VMConnect local-resource instructions.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
5. If Enhanced Session Mode is unavailable
Check that Remote Desktop is enabled in the Windows guest, then reconnect. Microsoft also notes a sign-in prompt issue that can affect Windows 10 version 2004 and later, and Windows 11: if Windows Hello-only sign-in is enabled, disable that setting, sign out or reboot, and try connecting again. Follow Microsoft’s Enhanced Session Mode instructions for the relevant guest settings.
6. If the guest sees the printer but jobs still fail
Once the printer appears in the guest, investigate guest-side printing rather than assuming redirection itself is broken. Check that the intended printer is selected, inspect its queue and any reported error, and consult the printer manufacturer’s instructions for the model’s guest driver and supported features. The Microsoft Hyper-V guidance cited here does not prescribe a universal driver update, print-spooler reset, or queue repair, so the right fix depends on the guest Windows version and printer model.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteRank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
7. Understand USB redirection limits
Hyper-V does not provide native direct USB passthrough, according to Microsoft’s USB device troubleshooting guidance. Enhanced Session Mode and Remote Desktop redirection are alternatives for supported devices and operating systems, but that does not establish compatibility for every printer or USB-specific printer feature. Do not expect a built-in Hyper-V switch to attach a printer’s USB connection directly to the guest.
Microsoft describes RDP redirection as another route for supported USB devices. Its USB example includes guest Remote Desktop and firewall requirements; confirm printer-specific compatibility and setup with the relevant product guidance rather than assuming the example applies to every printer. A network-connected printer may be another option if the guest can access it and the model’s setup supports that arrangement, but its configuration is separate from VMConnect local printer sharing.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
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