How to Use a Wireless Printer

Lexmark x4550 Wireless All-In-One Printer

A wireless printer allows multiple computers to share a single printer without the need for wires. Offices and families enjoy being able to print from any room, within range, without installing anything other than the printer. A wireless printer can also be used as a wired printer, if necessary. This scenario is mainly used on the central computer on the network if a router is unavailable. Wireless printing is easy and convenient.

Things You'll Need

• Wireless router Wireless card for each computer

Instructions

1. Install the wireless printer. Insert the printer's software and follow the installation wizard steps. Add the printer to your existing wireless network or computer with a wireless card for an ad-hoc network. Make note of the IP address and network name of the printer to add to other computers. Be sure any computers connecting to the printer are connected to your network, either wirelessly or wired.

2. Go to "Start -- Printers and Faxes."

3. Select "Add a Printer" in the top left corner. Choose "A network printer, or a printer attached to another computer" radio button and click "Next."

4. Choose "Browse for a printer." This will list available networks. Choose your network to view available wireless devices. Select your printer. Complete the wizard steps to add the printer to your computer. Restart your computer if necessary. The printer will be listed in your available printers list when you go to print anything. If the printer isn't found, choose "Back."

5. Choose the "Connect to this printer" or "Connect to this printer on the Internet or home office network" radio button and use the network name or IP address of the printer along with the network server name to find and add the printer.

6. Change the printer to your default by going to "Start -- Printers and Faxes." Right-click the wireless printer and choose "Set as default printer."

Tips & Warnings

• If the printer isn't listed, be sure you are connected to the network. If the printer still isn't found, you may need to install the printer through a cable. The software will take you through the steps in a wizard format.

• Be sure to keep the network available for everyone to use. For instance, if using an ad-hoc network, keep the main computer running so everyone maintains access.

Resources

• HP Details on Wireless Printers