What Do I Need to Connect a Wireless Printer to My Desktop?

A wireless printer allows you to print over a wireless network.

The exact requirements for connecting a wireless printer to your desktop PC depend on the specific printer model. Generally, you need a wireless network in your home or office and the relevant printer drivers.

Background

Wireless printers are available from a range of manufacturers and are designed to be connected wirelessly to a computer network rather than to a specific machine. This means the printers can be shared by a number of PCs and laptops without being physically connected to any of the computers.

Connectivity

To connect a wireless printer to your network, you need to know the network's wireless encryption key, if it has been secured. Some wireless printers require you to configure the settings using controls on the printer; others require you to connect the printer to a computer temporarily using a USB cable to perform the network configuration. Consult the documentation that came with your printer for specific instructions.

Software

Once your printer is active on your network, you must install the relevant printer drivers on your desktop PC and on any other networked computers from which you want to print. Printer drivers are supplied with the printer on CD-ROM and usually can be downloaded from the manufacturer's website as well.

References

• Microsoft: Install a printer on a home network
• HP:Set up your HP printer using the Wireless Wizard