How to troubleshoot and fix a network printer that cannot be found or added on Windows 10 and 11

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to troubleshoot and fix a network printer that cannot be found or added on Windows 10 and 11. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

If your Windows 10 or Windows 11 computer cannot find your network printer, the issue is usually related to network connectivity, printer discovery settings, or missing drivers. This guide walks you through the steps to locate and add your printer on a small business or home office network.

Verify Network Connection

For a network printer to be discovered, both the printer and the PC must be on the same network.

1. Print a network configuration page from the printer's control panel to check its IP address.
2. On your Windows PC, select Start > Settings > Network & internet.
3. Confirm your computer is connected to the same Wi-Fi SSID as the printer.

Add the Printer via Windows Settings

1. Select Start > Settings.
2. Go to Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
3. Select Add device. Windows will search for available printers on the network.
4. When your printer appears, select it and click Add device.

Install the Printer Driver

If the printer is found but will not print, you may need the correct driver.

1. Visit the printer manufacturer's support website.
2. Search for your specific printer model and download the latest driver for Windows 10 or 11.
3. Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.

Enable Network Discovery

Windows must be able to see other devices on your network to find the printer.

1. Open Control Panel.
2. Go to Network and Sharing Center > Change advanced sharing settings.
3. Under your current network profile, select Turn on network discovery.
4. Click Save changes.

Use the Printer Troubleshooter

1. Select Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot.
2. Select Other troubleshooters.
3. Find Printer and select Run.
4. Follow the prompts to apply any suggested fixes.

Check the Printer Spooler Service

The Print Spooler manages all print jobs. If it is stopped, the printer may not appear.

1. Press Windows key + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Locate Print Spooler in the list.
3. Right-click it and select Restart.

If you have followed these steps and your printer still cannot be found, please Open a Ticket with our support team for further assistance.

You may also find these related guides helpful:

• Printer not printing / offline

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