Recommended Free Tools
To fix printer sharing in Windows 11, first confirm the printer works on the host PC, that the host is available on the same network, and that sharing is enabled with the correct share name. Then check the Private network and discovery settings, connect using the host name or IP address, and enter valid host credentials if prompted.
If the host itself cannot be reached, resolve network access or name resolution before reinstalling the printer. If the connection still fails, remove and reconnect the shared printer, then use Windows Get Help for broader printing issues.
1. Confirm the printer and host PC are working
On the PC directly connected to the printer, verify that the printer is installed and can print locally. The host PC must be powered on and connected to the network for other computers to use its shared printer.
If local printing does not work, troubleshoot the printer on the host first. Sharing cannot make a printer that is not working on the host available to other PCs.
#1 Best Overall
- SHARE A PRINTER: This compact wireless print server supports 802.11b/g/n wireless standards for functionality with almost any wireless network and offers an RJ45 port for 10/100 Mbps wired connections
- DETAILED INSTALLATION STEPS: Perform initial setup following our online step-by-step instructional video or user manual; Access the online FAQs and IT Pro Community for additional helpful tips and instructions
- GREAT FOR ANY ENVIRONMENT: This USB print server adapter is the perfect printing solution; It's ideal for home or small office applications, and places that require shared printing capabilities
- BROAD COMPATIBILITY: This USB to Ethernet print server is USB 2.0 compliant, and works w/ Mac & Windows; The print adapter also supports Simple Network Management Protocol; NOTE: iOS, iPadOS, and Airprint are not supported
- THE IT PRO’S CHOICE: Designed and built for IT Professionals, this wireless network print server is backed for 2 years, including free lifetime 24/5 multi-lingual technical assistance
2. Enable printer sharing and note the share name
On the host PC, open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners. Select the printer, choose Printer properties (or open Manage first if that option appears), and select the Sharing tab.
- Turn on Share this printer.
- Record the exact Share name.
- Check the name carefully before using it on the client PC. If the share name has changed, update the client connection to match.
3. Check the network and sharing settings on both PCs
Make sure the host and client are connected to the same local network. They can use different connection types, such as Wi-Fi and Ethernet, if both can reach each other on that network.
- Open Settings > Network & internet on each PC and check its active connection.
- On a network you trust, such as your home or managed work network, set the active network profile to Private.
- Go to Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings > Advanced sharing settings.
- Under Private networks, turn on Network discovery and File and printer sharing.
Do not change an untrusted public hotspot to Private. If you use a VPN, temporarily disconnect it to check whether it is preventing the PCs from reaching each other.
Rank #2
- 【WIRELESS PRINTING & SHARING】 Convert your old USB printer into a high-performance network printer without messy cables. Our wireless print server allows multiple computers on the same LAN to share one printer simultaneously, enabling automatic queue printing to boost productivity. Access print server efficiently via its assigned IP address from any corner of your office or home.
- 【DUAL-PORT WIRED BRIDGE & SWITCH】 Featuring two 10/100Mbps Ethernet ports, our server supports a "daisy-chain" setup: connect one port to your network and the other directly to your computer. It acts as a mini-switch to save a router socket and keep your desk organized. NOTE: The second port provides internet to your PC ONLY in wired mode; it does NOT support wireless-to-ethernet bridging.
- 【UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY】 Supports 95% of USB printers, including Inkjet, Laser, Thermal Label, and Dot Matrix models using RAW/IPP protocols. Compatible with major brands like HP, Brother, and Canon. IMPORTANT: Not compatible with dye-sublimation printers (e.g., DNP), Roland BN series, or Canon LBP CAPT series printers. Mobile printing and AirPrint are not supported.
- 【STABLE DUAL CONNECTIVITY】 Features both 2.4GHz WiFi (802.11b/g/n) and a 10/100Mbps Ethernet port for flexible placement anywhere in your home or office. Equipped with a high-performance processor and smart indicator lights for real-time status monitoring and fast data processing.
- 【FLEXIBLE & EASY SETUP】 Use our Windows Quick Installation Tool for a streamlined 2-step setup: network config and printer addition. For advanced users or Mac/Linux, we fully support manual configuration via web-based management and standard TCP/IP port settings (IP/Hostname.local). Detailed manuals and video tutorials are provided for a hassle-free experience.
4. Check discovery services if the host is not visible
If the host cannot be found or opened, Microsoft’s general sharing guidance recommends checking the services below. On the affected PC, press Windows + R, enter services.msc, and select OK. For each service, start it if it is stopped and set its startup type to Automatic.
| Service | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Function Discovery Provider Host | Helps Windows find devices and services on the network. |
| Function Discovery Resource Publication | Publishes the PC and its shared resources. |
| SSDP Discovery | Supports discovery of network devices. |
| UPnP Device Host | Supports network device discovery and interaction. |
5. Test whether the host PC is reachable
On the client PC, open File Explorer and enter the host computer’s name in this format:
\\ComputerName
Replace ComputerName with the host’s computer name. If Windows cannot open the host, check that both PCs are on the same network and troubleshoot connectivity or name resolution before focusing on the printer.
Rank #3
- Easily share your USB printer across multiple computers on the same local network. Enjoy automatic print queue management and wireless connectivity. No dedicated host computer is needed—this compact, low-power device reduces maintenance costs and improves efficiency. Note: Mobile printing and AirPrint are not supported.
- Wide compatibility: Supports standard TCP/IP printing (Raw mode / IPP protocol). Printers can be added in both Windows and macOS systems by specifying the device’s IP address or hostname, using the system’s built-in print function. Compatible with 95% of printer models including inkjet, laser, thermal label, and dot-matrix printers. Important: Some printers require sleep mode and bidirectional communication to be disabled for proper operation.
- Supports both wireless Wi-Fi and wired LAN connections, allowing flexible setup based on your office environment. Connects to your local network to ensure file security and prevent data leakage. With Wi-Fi connectivity, there's no need to physically link your printer to the router or PC, reducing cable clutter and improving convenience.
- Easy to setup: Just two steps to get started: configure the network and add the printer. Windows users can use our installation tool for quick setup. We provide detailed illustrated guides, video tutorials, and professional support on our website to help you resolve any issues you may encounter.
- Read before shopping: This product supports printers that use standard Raw mode or IPP protocol. If your printer uses proprietary protocols (e.g., CAPT, DDST), it may not be compatible. Installation is required, but we have greatly simplified the process. If you encounter any problems, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
6. Add the shared printer
If Windows does not discover the printer automatically, add it manually from the client PC. Open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners > Add device. If the printer does not appear, choose the manual-add option and select the shared-printer-by-name option.
Use the host computer name and exact printer share name in this format:
\\ComputerName\PrinterShareName
If that does not work, try the host’s IP address instead:
Rank #4
- 【READ BEFORE PURCHASE】: CHEECENT print server for USB printer is designed to replace printer host, it required networking and Windows/Mac/Linux computer, NOT PLUG and PLAY. Follow video on this listing "Videos". Read USER MANUAL in “Product Guide & Documents” before purchase. Browser-based management help you configure it without extra software. *Not support for Phone/Scanner/Chromebook/Android (System) Devices. Not support for 3D Printer/Photo Printer/Any other Non-Printer type USB devices.*
- 【SHARE TWO PRINTERS】: This WiFI print server has 2 USB ports, it allows multiple computers to share TWO USB printers over an Ethernet or WiFi local network. When you are tired of maintaining a printer's host PC, this makes an old USB printer into a network printer. Use a USB cable to connect the print server with printers, connect it to the home/office network, then print from any computers connected to the local network after simple configuration. NO SCANNING. NO CELLPHONE, NO iPad.
- 【SUPER CONVENIENT】: This wireless printer adapter is a compact design with a metal shell and a mounting hole, convenient to install on a desktop/wall. This print server doesn't require a wired connection to a computer/router, there’s no need to put your printer next to them, just make a wired or WiFi connection between the print server and your router. It's ideal for home or business applications, and government or educational institutions that require shared printing capabilities.
- 【HIGH COMPATIBILITY】: This device converts printer to wireless. It is USB 2.0 and works with Mac & Windows, including Windows 10. BE SURE the printer's driver is installed on each networked computer to use the printer server. Not support smartphones. Compatible with the most printers in the market, but not 100% guaranteed. * NOTE * For its Printer Compatibility List information (IMPORTANT: Turn off “Bidirectional Mode”), User Manual please see the PDF File under Product Guide & Documents.
- 【PERFECT SOLUTION & SERVICE】: This wifi adapter for the printer saved you from the temptation to buy a newer, cheap printer just for the wireless feature. It saved you from a dedicated computer powered on to support the printer. With instructions, video, and complete accessories, it helps most customers easily configure by themselves. You get a full unconditional money-back guarantee if you are not happy with this device (EVEN IF IT PASSES RETURN TIME, YOU CAN CONTACT US FOR ANY QUALITY ISSUE).
\\IPAddress\PrinterShareName
Replace the examples with the host name or IP address and the share name you recorded. If Windows asks for credentials, enter an account permitted to use the printer on the host PC. If the name-based path fails, trying the IP address can help identify a name-resolution problem; if the IP path fails, try the host name.
7. Reconnect the printer if it still fails
- On the client PC, open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
- Select the failed printer and choose Remove.
- Restart the client PC.
- Add the printer again using the manual path, checking the host identifier and share name.
If the printer connects but printing problems continue, or if printing issues affect more than this shared printer, open the Windows 11 Get Help app and run its printer troubleshooter.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Quick diagnosis
| Symptom | What to check |
|---|---|
| The host PC cannot be opened | Same-network access, Private profile, discovery settings, and name resolution. |
| The host opens but the printer is missing | Share this printer, exact share name, and manual installation. |
| Windows requests credentials or denies access | Use valid credentials for an account permitted on the host PC. |
| The printer connects but printing still fails | Confirm the host printer works locally and run the Get Help printer troubleshooter. |
FAQ
Why can I see the shared printer but Windows cannot connect?
Discovery only indicates that Windows found the host or printer; the connection can still fail if the share is not enabled, the share name is wrong, or the host cannot be reached. Check the host’s sharing setting, then try adding the printer by host name or IP address and provide valid host credentials if requested.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Best Value
- WIRED NETWORK USB PRINT SERVER: Connect a single USB 2.0 printer to a wired Ethernet LAN (RJ45); 10Base-T, 100Base-TX auto-sensing to ensure a reliable connection, letting you print from any network computer, across the office or over the Internet
- MANUAL NETWORK SETUP REQUIRED: Configuration via web interface (static IP or DHCP) using LPR queue “LP1"; Not plug-and-play, requires intermediate network knowledge for installation; Access our online FAQs for additional helpful tips and instructions
- USB PRINTER COMPATIBILITY: Works with most USB 2.0 printers using standard drivers; Not compatible with USB hubs, multi-function printers with proprietary drivers, or printers requiring full bi-directional communication
- COMPATIBILITY: The USB to Ethernet print server is USB 2.0 compliant and works with macOS and Windows; It also supports LPR network printing and Bonjour Print Services for broad compatibility; Included software is compatible with Windows only
- PRINT FROM ANYWHERE: Print from any computer connected to the Ethernet; This print server doesn’t require a wired connection to a computer, however it must be connected to your networking device (eg. router or switch) with the included RJ45 network cable
Does the host PC need to be on for printer sharing?
Yes. The host PC must be powered on and connected to the network, and the printer must be installed and working on that PC.
Do both PCs need to use Wi-Fi?
No. One PC can use Ethernet and the other Wi-Fi, as long as they are connected to the same network and can reach each other.
What should I do if the host name does not work?
Try adding the printer with the host’s IP address and the exact printer share name. If the IP address works but the name does not, the problem may be name resolution.
Should I turn off password-protected sharing?
It is not a required fix for printer sharing. If Windows requests credentials, use an account permitted to use the printer on the host PC.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
