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Introduction
Printing documents and important files is an important aspect of daily life in both offices and households. With the rise of technology and the need for wireless printing capabilities, networked printers have become increasingly common. In this article, we will guide you through the simple steps to add a networked printer to your Windows 10 system.
Step 1: Locate the Printer's IP Address
Before you can add your network printer to your Windows 10 system, you need to know its IP address. This may vary based on your printer’s manufacturer and model. Some printers have a built-in screen that displays its IP address, while others require you to print out network configuration pages. This step should be done before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2: Add the Printer to Windows 10
Click on the Start menu and select the “Settings” icon. In the Settings application, select “Devices” and then select “Printers & scanners” from the left sidebar. Click the “Add a printer or scanner” button on the right-hand side of the window.
After a few moments, your computer will begin searching for connected printers. If your network printer is not found, click the “The printer that I want isn’t listed” button. This will allow you to add a printer manually.
Step 3: Install the Printer Drivers
After you have connected your printer to your Windows 10 system, the next step is to install the printer driver. Printer drivers are essential software programs that allow your computer to communicate with the printer. Many modern printers will automatically install the drivers, but others may require you to download them manually from the printer’s manufacturer website.
Once you have downloaded the drivers, double-click on the file and follow the instructions to install them. After the driver has been installed, your computer should be able to communicate with your printer.
Step 4: Test Your Connection
Once you have successfully installed the printer driver, the final step is to test your connection. You can do this by opening a document or photo and selecting the print option. When the print dialog box opens, make sure to select your networked printer from the list of available printers.
After selecting your printer, click on the “Print” button to test if the connection is properly working. If everything has been set up correctly, your document or photo should begin printing.
Conclusion
Adding a networked printer to your Windows 10 system is a simple process that can save time and reduce clutter on your desk. By following the four simple steps listed in this article, you can quickly add a networked printer to your system and begin printing documents and photos. If you have any issues during the process, be sure to consult your printer's user manual or contact the manufacturer’s support team for assistance.
