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To connect a printer to a Windows computer, use the setup path that matches how the printer connects: plug in and turn on a USB printer, add a Wi-Fi printer on the same wireless network, pair a Bluetooth model, or connect to a printer shared by another PC. In Windows, open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners and select Add device. If Windows does not find it, use the manual-add option or follow the model-specific instructions from the printer manufacturer. Microsoft’s setup instructions cover Windows 11 and Windows 10; Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. Microsoft’s printer setup guide.
Choose the connection method
First identify how the printer connects. A USB printer is attached directly to the computer; a network printer joins your Wi-Fi or wired network; a Bluetooth printer must be paired; and a shared printer is connected to another computer that makes it available over the network. These methods have different requirements, so use the matching instructions below.
| Connection | What you need | Windows setup path |
|---|---|---|
| USB | A compatible cable connecting the printer and PC; check the ports on both devices. | Connect and power on the printer; Windows commonly installs it automatically. If needed, use Printers & scanners. |
| Wi-Fi or Ethernet network | The printer configured on the network. For standard wireless discovery, the printer and PC must be on the same Wi-Fi network. | Open Printers & scanners and select Add device. |
| Bluetooth | A printer that supports Bluetooth, with pairing enabled according to its model instructions. | Pair the printer using Windows Bluetooth settings, then check Printers & scanners. |
| Shared from another PC | The host PC must share the printer, and the connecting PC must be on the same network. | Set up printer sharing on the host, then connect from the other PC using Microsoft’s sharing instructions. |
How to add a printer in Windows 11 or Windows 10
- Turn on the printer. For a USB printer, connect its cable to the computer. For a Wi-Fi or network printer, configure it to join the network first using its screen or the manufacturer’s instructions.
- On the Windows PC, open Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners. The exact labels can vary by Windows version.
- Select Add device and wait while Windows searches. When the printer appears, select it and follow the prompts.
- If it does not appear, select the option to add the printer manually and follow the available path for its connection type.
A USB printer often installs automatically as soon as it is connected and turned on. If it does not, use the same Printers & scanners page to add it. Cable type and model-specific setup can vary; consult the printer documentation or manufacturer support if the connection is unclear. Microsoft: Add or install a printer in Windows.
Connect a wireless or network printer
Wi-Fi printer
Use the printer’s display or its manufacturer’s setup instructions to connect it to your wireless network. Then make sure the Windows computer is connected to that same Wi-Fi network. Open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners, select Add device, and choose the printer when it appears.
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Ethernet-connected printer
Connect the printer to the local network as described in its instructions, then try the standard Add device discovery flow. Network discovery and driver availability depend on the printer model and Windows setup. If it is not listed, choose manual addition or consult the manufacturer’s support information.
Pair a Bluetooth printer
Confirm that the printer model supports Bluetooth and place it in pairing mode as described in its instructions. In Windows, open Bluetooth settings and follow the pairing flow, then check Printers & scanners to add or manage the printer. Bluetooth setup is model-specific; Microsoft directs users to its Bluetooth pairing guidance as well as the printer settings page. Microsoft’s printer setup guide.
Rank #2
- Affordable Versatility - A budget-friendly all-in-one printer perfect for both home users and hybrid workers, offering exceptional value
- Crisp, Vibrant Prints - Experience impressive print quality for both documents and photos, thanks to its 2-cartridge hybrid ink system that delivers sharp text and vivid colors
- Effortless Setup & Use - Get started quickly with easy setup for your smartphone or computer, so you can print, scan, and copy without delay
- Reliable Wireless Connectivity - Enjoy stable and consistent connections with dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz or 5GHz), ensuring smooth printing from anywhere in your home or office
- Scan & Copy Handling - Utilize the device’s integrated scanner for efficient scanning and copying operations
Connect to a printer shared by another PC
A printer attached to another computer is not configured the same way as a printer that joins Wi-Fi directly. The host computer must have printer sharing enabled, and your Windows device must be on the same network. Set up sharing on the host first, then connect from the other computer using Microsoft’s separate instructions. Microsoft: Share your network printer.
Why can’t my computer find the printer?
Work through these checks in order:
- Power: Make sure the printer is turned on and ready.
- USB: Check that the cable is securely connected at both ends. If the printer remains undetected, check its manual for cable and port requirements.
- Wireless: Confirm that the printer is connected to Wi-Fi and that the PC is on the same wireless network.
- Bluetooth: Verify that the model supports Bluetooth and is in pairing mode.
- Shared printer: Confirm that the host PC is sharing the printer and that both computers are on the same network.
- Discovery: Return to Printers & scanners, select Add device, and wait for the search to finish. If the printer is still absent, choose the manual-add option.
Run the Windows 11 printer troubleshooter
On Windows 11, Microsoft recommends starting with the automated printer troubleshooter in the Get Help app. Follow its prompts, then retry discovery. If the issue persists, remove the printer from Windows and add it again. Microsoft: Fix printer connection and printing problems.
Rank #3
- Affordable Versatility - A budget-friendly all-in-one printer perfect for both home users and hybrid workers, offering exceptional value
- Crisp, Vibrant Prints - Experience impressive print quality for both documents and photos, thanks to its 2-cartridge hybrid ink system that delivers sharp text and vivid colors
- Effortless Setup & Use - Get started quickly with easy setup for your smartphone or computer, so you can print, scan, and copy without delay
- Reliable Wireless Connectivity - Enjoy stable and consistent connections with dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz or 5GHz), ensuring smooth printing from anywhere in your home or office
- Scan & Copy Handling - Utilize the device’s integrated scanner for efficient scanning and copying operations
Confirm that setup worked
After Windows lists the printer as installed, print a test page to check basic communication and printing. If the test fails, use the Windows troubleshooter and verify the printer’s connection before removing and reinstalling it. For device-specific network setup, compatibility, or driver instructions, use the printer manufacturer’s documentation.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Windows 10 support status
The setup steps apply to Windows 10 as well as Windows 11, but Microsoft ended general Windows 10 support on October 14, 2025. The date affects Windows support status, not the basic steps for adding a printer. Microsoft’s printer setup guide.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Wireless Bluetooth Printer: Portable thermal printer compatible with iPhone, Android phones, iPad and tablet computers via Bluetooth. For smartphones, please download the "Nada Print" App. You can also connect to laptops and computers for printing using a USB-C cable. (Note: Laptops and computers can only be connected via USB and require the installation of a driver first. Bluetooth connection is not supported.)
- No-ink printing: Only supports US Letter and A4 size thermal paper.(Doesn't support regular paper) The no-ink portable thermal printer uses direct thermal technology, requiring no ink, toner or ribbons, making it environmentally friendly, cost-effective and time-saving. The thermal printer package comes with a roll of US Letter thermal printing paper. Note: When installing the paper, remember to switch the paper size switch on APP
- Clear Print: NDYIN N80 portable thermal printer adopts high-definition printing technology, with a 203DPI resolution to provide you with clear printing results. This mobile printer is compatible with roll paper, folded paper and tattoo transfer paper, supporting printing from your mobile phone PDF, Word, pictures and web pages anytime and anywhere. It is recommended to use our NDYIN thermal paper to achieve good printing quality
- Portable wireless printer for travel: The thermal printer is equipped with a built-in 1500mAh rechargeable battery, which can print 160 sheets of 8.5" x 11" thermal paper after being fully charged. It weighs only 1.5 pounds and is compact in size. This ink-free portable printer can be easily carried in a backpack or briefcase! It is perfect for business travel, cars, small offices, construction sites, schools and homes. You can print documents, contracts, invoices and boarding passes anytime and anywhere
- The N80 thermal printer has a wide range of uses. The package includes the N80 printer, a roll of US Letter paper(7m/roll), a user manual, a guide card, a type-C soft cable and a type C adapter. Note: The charging adapter is not included. Special thermal paper is required for use; ordinary paper cannot be used. This ink-free portable thermal printer is suitable for various scenarios such as home, school, travel, office, and outdoor, meeting the printing needs of different groups of people. This tattoo template printer is also compatible with tattoo transfer paper, making it an ideal choice for tattoo art
Rank #4
- AFFORDABLE ALL-IN-ONE FOR HOME AND HOME OFFICE: Print, copy, and scan on one compact wireless printer designed for everyday home office printing, schoolwork, documents, and reports. Produce beautiful prints for results that stand out.
- EASY TO USE WITH CLOUD APP CONNECTIONS: Print from and scan to popular Cloud apps(2), including Google Drive, Dropbox, Box, OneDrive, and more from the simple-to-use 1.8” color display on your printer.
- FULL-SIZE FEATURES IN A COMPACT DESIGN: This printer includes automatic duplex (2-sided) printing, a 20-sheet single-sided Automatic Document Feeder (ADF)(3), and a 150-sheet paper tray(3). Engineered to print at fast speeds of up to 16 pages per minute (ppm) in black and up to 9 ppm in color(4).
- MULTIPLE CONNECTION OPTIONS: Connect your way. Interface with your printer on your wireless network or via USB.
- MOBILE PRINTING MADE EASY: Go mobile with the Brother Mobile Connect app(5) that delivers easy onscreen menu navigation for printing, copying, scanning, and device management from your mobile device. Monitor your ink usage with Page Gauge to help ensure you don’t run out(6).
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