Printer trail

Printer Setup

Setting up a printer is mostly about doing things in the right order: unpack and power it on, load ink or toner and paper, connect it to your network or computer, then add it to each device you want to print from.

These guides cover home inkjet and laser printers from any brand. Control panels differ a lot between models, so we explain what each step is for and when to check your printer’s own manual.

3 guides in this topic

Before you start

  • Find the printer’s exact model name on the front or on the label at the back.
  • Keep the setup leaflet that came in the box: it shows your model’s steps.
  • Have your Wi-Fi network name and password ready for wireless setup.

Guides in Printer Setup

Start here

How to Connect a Printer to Wi-Fi

Connect a printer to Wi-Fi using its control panel, the maker’s app, WPS or a USB-assisted setup, then add it to Windows or a Mac and fix common problems.

8 min read · Home inkjet and laser printers with built-in Wi-Fi; Windows 10 and 11, and Mac

  1. How to Set Up a New Printer: A First-Time Guide

    Set up a new printer from unboxing to first page: packing tape, ink or toner, paper, connection choice, drivers and a test page, for Windows and Mac.

    5 min read

  2. How to Add a Printer to a Windows PC or Mac

    Add a printer to a Windows 10 or 11 PC or a Mac over USB or the network, including what to do when it isn’t listed and how to add it by IP address.

    5 min read