How to Fix a Network Printer That Is Not Showing Up on the Network in Windows 11

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to Fix a Network Printer That Is Not Showing Up on the Network in Windows 11. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

If your network printer is not appearing on your Windows 11 computer, it is usually due to a connectivity issue, a disabled discovery setting, or an outdated printer driver. This guide will walk you through the steps to get your printer back online and visible to your device.

Quick Fix Steps

1. Restart your printer and your Windows 11 computer.
2. Ensure the printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your computer.
3. Check that the printer's status screen indicates it is "Ready" or "Online" with no error messages.

Detailed Instructions

1. Verify Network Connection

Before troubleshooting Windows settings, confirm that your hardware is communicating correctly.

• Check the printer's network settings via its physical control panel to ensure it is connected to the correct SSID.
• Ensure your computer is connected to the same network. If you need help connecting, see our guide on How to connect to Wi-Fi.
• If using an Ethernet cable, ensure it is firmly plugged into both the printer and your router or switch.

2. Enable Network Discovery

Windows 11 uses Network Discovery to find devices on your local network. If this is turned off, your printer will not appear.

1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
2. In the left sidebar, click Network & internet.
3. Click Advanced network settings.
4. Under "More settings", select Advanced sharing settings.
5. Expand the Private networks section.
6. Ensure the toggle for Network discovery is set to On.
7. Ensure the toggle for File and printer sharing is set to On.

3. Add the Printer Manually

If automatic discovery fails, you can add the printer using its IP address.

1. Open Settings and go to Bluetooth & devices.
2. Click Printers & scanners.
3. Click the Add device button next to "Add a printer or scanner".
4. Wait for the search to complete, then click Add manually.
5. Select Add a printer using an IP address or hostname and click Next.
6. Select TCP/IP Device in the "Device type" dropdown.
7. Enter the printer's IP address in the "Hostname or IP address" field.
8. Click Next and follow the on-screen prompts to install the driver.

Troubleshooting

Run the Printer Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in tool to diagnose and fix common printing problems.

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
3. Find Printer in the list and click Run.
4. Follow the prompts to allow Windows to detect and fix issues.

Check the Print Spooler Service

The Print Spooler manages all print jobs. If this service is stopped, the printer may not be detected.

1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
3. Scroll down and locate Print Spooler in the list.
4. Right-click Print Spooler and select Restart.

If you have followed these steps and your printer still does not appear on the network, please Open a Ticket with our Brisbane support team for further assistance.

Still Having Issues?