How to Connect an Inkjet Printer to a Network

Connecting an inkjet printer to a network can seem a confusing task - don’t worry. Follow these steps and you will learn to do it with ease.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• computer
• printer

1. Connect the printer to the computer using the appropriate cables. The installation wizard should appear to help you install the printer

2. Once the printer is installed, open the “Printers and Faxes” folder. This can be found under “Printers and Hardware” in the control panel.

3. Open the printer’s “Properties” tab. This can be done by right-clicking on the printer icon.

4. Click on the “Sharing” tab. Click on “Share Name”, then "OK."

Tips & Warnings

• Once the printer is available to a network, computers on the network will have to add it to their printers. This can be easily and quickly done in the Printer folder.
• These are directions specifically for Windows XP. Other systems will have different directions.
• The printer can also be installed manually if the installation wizard does not show up. This can be done under the “Install New Hardware” tab.
• Make sure the network is secure and no one that is not approved has access to the printer.