How To Connect To A Wireless Printer: A Step-by-Step Guide

As wireless technology has made a great revolution in different fields of the digital world, it has transformed the printing process as well making it much easier than ever before. Now you do not have to go for a printer setup via lengthy cords. In fact, you can use a wireless printer that can print from any device connected to your network. 

The device is totally of your choice. It can be a laptop, tablet, smartphone, or any other like these. Moreover, wireless printers do not bind you to a particular place. You can set up anywhere and at any time. 

Keep reading this article to learn about how to set up a wireless printer with your device easily.

How Does A Wireless Printer Work?

Wondering how wireless printers work? Well, that is quite interesting because these printers do not need any physical connections such as cables. Rather, they connect with compatible devices via Bluetooth technology or Wi-Fi. Both of these techniques ensure a smooth and efficient printing experience.

Types Of Wireless Printers

Most commonly, two types of wireless printers are used these days. Let’s have a look at them:

Bluetooth Printers

As Bluetooth is an amazing technology, it works wonders for printers as well. Bluetooth printers have a built-in Bluetooth module that enables them to connect to a particular device wirelessly within the specific Bluetooth range.

These printers are relatively slower than Wi-Fi printers. But the good thing is that they are best for users who travel a lot and can not rely on a Wi-Fi network.

Wi-Fi Printers

As the name suggests, Wi-Fi printers operate with a Wi-Fi network. These printers have built-in Wi-Fi capabilities that allow them to connect to any nearby network. For big offices, it is preferable to use these printers as they are compatible to operate with multiple devices within the same network. Also, Wi-Fi printers have low maintenance costs and increase the efficiency of a company.

Steps To Connect Bluetooth Printer To Your Device

It is very simple to connect a Bluetooth printer to your device. You have to follow these steps:

1. Bluetooth Connectivity

First of all, you need to check whether your printer and device are supporting Bluetooth connectivity or not. Mostly, this is a built-in feature but it is better to make a confirmation before proceeding.

2. Bluetooth Settings

After plugging the printer into a power source, turn on its Bluetooth. Bluetooth should also be on the device you are using. Importantly, you need to make sure that the visibility of both devices is on.

3. Pair Devices

After making the necessary Bluetooth settings, check the list of available devices. Your printer should be on that list. From here, select the printer to start pairing. If a pin is required, enter it to complete the pairing process.

4. Check The Printer Software

Sometimes, manual printer software installation is required to print via Bluetooth. So, install the software to start printing.

5. Test Print

Once all settings are done, you can go for printing. Select a document on your device and choose the printing option. If everything is alright, the printer will start printing at once.

6. Troubleshooting

If there is any issue in printing, you have to troubleshoot the connection and check if both devices are in Bluetooth range. You can restart both devices for a smooth printing process. Also, there are some troubleshooting tips mentioned in a printer’s manual. You should follow them as well.

7. Results

Once your printer starts working correctly, you can print documents, pictures, or whatever you want without any cable or Wi-Fi network. 

Steps To Connect A Wi-Fi Printer To Your Device

To connect a Wi-Fi printer to your device, you have to configure internet access on the printer. It can be done by following these steps:

• Switch on the Wi-Fi router and power on your printer and device.
• Go to the wireless settings in the control panel of your printer.
• Choose your Wi-Fi network and enter the password.
• After successfully connecting to Wi-Fi, a wireless light will turn on your printer.

Once the printer is connected to Wi-Fi, you can connect it to your device by following these steps:

For Windows

1. Go to the Windows search box and type printer.
2. Select printer and scanner.
3. Select “Add a printer” in your window settings.
4. Select your printer and add a device.
5. Sometimes, Windows asks you to install additional software, so you have to do it from Microsoft software.
6. To make sure if everything is set up correctly, you can go for test printing. For that purpose, right-click on the printer in your device list and select the print test page.

For Mac

Printing to a wireless printer is also very simple for Mac users: 

1. Just click the Apple menu and go to “System & Preferences”.
2. Select “Printer and Scanner”.
3. Click the “+” button to add the printer.
4. Select your printer from the list of available printers.
5. If a driver is required, Mac will automatically install it.
6. After adding the printer, print a test page to ensure your printer is connected properly.

For Mobile Phone

To get a print from your mobile phone, you have to follow these instructions: 

1. Download the printer app from the App Store.
2. After opening the app, select your printer from the list of available printers.
3. Once selected, you can print the desired document on your phone.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issue during the whole printing process, you have to:

1. Check the strength of Wi-Fi signals.
2. Restart the printer.
3. Go through the printer’s manual and get help from their troubleshooting guides.

Conclusion

We have discussed several options for printing to a wireless printer. If one option is not working for you, you can move with another. In short, wireless printing is the most practical option to get flexibility and convenience in printing.