How to Print Directly to a Network Printer in Windows

Windows uses printers that are sometimes connected to a network. When you print on a network printer, you are interfacing directly with the device over an Ethernet link and sending it your data. Selecting these printers from your list of available printer devices is no different from printing with a local printer, with the additional requirement of being present on the network.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• A computer running Windows XP operating system and connected to a network with a network enabled printer
• The IP address of the network enabled printer
• Printer driver

1. Connect to the network you would like to print on by plugging in your Ethernet cable or establishing a wireless network connection.

2. Open the "Print" menu in the software program of your choice.

3. Select the network printer from the list of printer devices, then click "Print."

Tips & Warnings

• You can download the latest driver for your printer from the manufacturers website.

• If you are in a work environment, be sure to get permission from your technology group to print directly to a network printer before doing so.

References

• Microsoft: Print a Document or File