How to Use a Printer With My Netbook

Printers work with Netbooks in the same way they work with a desktop computer.

Netbooks use similar software to laptops and desktop computers to communicate with and utilize attached printers. Most netbooks do not have CD-ROM, drives while almost all printers come with driver software ready to install from CD-ROMs. The challenge when you are installing a new printer for use with a netbook is getting the printer driver and packaged software onto your computer. Once your software is installed and the printer is initialized, you will be able to use the printer as you would from any desktop computer.

Things You'll Need

• USB thumb drive

Instructions

1. Use a desktop computer to copy the contents of the bundled printer CD-ROM to a thumb drive. If a second computer with a CD-ROM drive is not available, go to your printer manufacturer's website and download the appropriate drivers to your netbook's hard drive. Specific instructions may vary depending on your manufacturer, so read and follow instructions provided on the website.

2. Insert the thumb drive into your netbook. If you downloaded the drivers instead, follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation.

3. Open the file browser and click on the USB drive. Click on "Install" or "Setup." Follow the on-screen instructions for driver and software installation.

4. Connect your printer to your netbook using a USB cord. Some software setups will automatically recognize the printer and launch a setup wizard. If a setup wizard does not start automatically, on your task bar choose "Start" and then "Printers and Faxes." In the window that opens, double click on "Add Printer."

5. Click "Next" in the printer wizard window. A new frame appears asking you for the type of printer that you would like to initialize.

6. Choose "Local Printer" and click next if your printer is connect through the USB port. Choose "Network Printer" if you want to use a printer installed on your network. Click "Next."

7. Click the name of the printer you are using in the list. Click "OK"

8. Choose "Yes" when prompted to choose whether or not you want to use the printer as your default printer. Click "Next." Click "Finish."

Tips & Warnings

• It is best to use the original software supplied by the manufacturer.

• Never use a driver that is not meant for your particular printer.

References

• Vlerick: How to Install a Printer
• Microsoft: Find and Install Printer Drivers