How to Share a Local Printer in Windows System

Share your printer on Windows through the "Network and Sharing Center."

If you share your local printer on a Windows network, all computers connected to the network are able to use your printer. A local printer is any printer that is directly connects to your computer with a communications cable, such as a printer or USB cable. Computers that connect to the network are able to locate your printer because sharing the device makes it available as a shared network resource. It is cost effective to only use one printer to satisfy the needs of a small network.

Instructions

Enable Printer Sharing

1. Click "Start" and select "Control Panel."

2. Type "Network" into the search bar at the upper-right corner of the window and press "Enter."

3. Click "Network and Sharing Center" from the results list.

4. Click "Change Advanced Sharing Settings" in the left pane of the window. Click the arrow to the right of "Home or Work (Current Profile)" to display the profile's options.

5. Click the check box next to "Turn on File and Printer Sharing" in the File and Printer Sharing section. Click "Save Changes."

Share the Local Printer

1. Click "Start" and then choose "Devices and Printers."

2. Right-click on the local printer that you want to share.

3. Select "Printer Properties" from the pop-up menu. The Printer Properties window opens.

4. Click the "Sharing" tab and then click the check box next to "Share this Printer." Click "Apply" and then "OK."

References

• Microsoft Windows: Share a Printer