How to Share a Printer in Windows XP

Having a printer connected to each computer in your home is usually overkill. Save time and money by sharing one printer with all the computers on your Windows home network. Sharing your printer requires only a few clicks and works with wireless and LAN networks equally well.

Instructions

1. Select the most accessible computer to install your printer. Reference the manufacturer's directions. You'll need to leave this computer on in order for the other computer(s) to print, so using a laptop may not work for you.

2. Open the printer properties window by clicking "Start" then "Printers and Faxes." Right-click the icon for the printer you installed and select "Properties."

3. Access the Sharing tab, highlight "Share This Printer," and give the windows printer an easy to identify name. Click the "Additional Drivers" button and check any drivers needed by the other computers in your home. Click "OK."

4. Install the printer on each of your other computers by opening the Printers and Faxes window. Click on "Add Printer" to bring up the printer installation wizard. Click "Next" and highlight the network printer option, click "Next" and then "Browse for Printer."

5. Select "Next" and browse to the computer where the printer resides. Double-click the computer and highlight the printer before clicking "Next" and "Finish."

6. Open the properties window for the printer by right-clicking on the printer icon and selecting "Properties." Click "Print Test Page" and verify the printer is working correctly.