Connecting a Wi-Fi Printer to Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

So, you finally decided to upgrade to Windows 11, and now you’ve bought yourself a shiny new Wi-Fi printer. Exciting, right? But then comes the million-dollar question: how do I connect it to my computer? Fret not, dear reader, because I’m here to guide you through this straightforward yet pivotal process with just a sprinkle of humor and a dash of technical insight.

Decoding the Connection Steps​

Connecting a Wi-Fi printer to a Windows 11 PC is akin to figuring out which sock goes with which shoe: sometimes it seems more complicated than it needs to be! But once you know the right steps, you're cruising.

Scenario 1: Setting Up a Brand-New Printer​

If you have a Wi-Fi printer that you’ve never connected to your network before (think of it like introducing your new roommate to your social circle), you’ll want to start with your printer’s utility for a smooth setup. Here’s the play-by-play.

1. Visit the Manufacturer’s Website: Fire up your favorite web browser and head over to your printer’s manufacturer site. For instance, if you are using a Canon MG3670, go to Canon's website.
2. Download the Utility: Look for a download link for the setup utility specific to your printer. This utility is your ticket to connecting to your Wi-Fi network.
3. Run the Utility: Once downloaded, open it up, click "Yes" when prompted, and select "Start Setup."
4. Follow the Prompts: Choose your country, accept the terms and conditions, and when it asks for a connection method, opt for "Wireless LAN Connection."
5. Connect via Wireless Router: Select the option to connect through your wireless router and turn on your printer if it isn't already. The wizard should then detect your printer—easy peasy!
6. Completion: Follow any additional on-screen instructions to finish the setup. Voilà, your printer is now in sync with your PC!

Scenario 2: Adding an Already Connected Printer​

What if you’ve got a reliable printer that’s already part of your Wi-Fi family? You just need Windows 11 to recognize it. Here’s how to get that done:

1. Open Settings: Hit Windows + I to open the Settings app. What a time-saver!
2. Navigate to Bluetooth & Devices: Click on "Bluetooth & Devices," and then select "Printers & Scanners."
3. Add Device: At the top, hit "Add Device." If your printer is connected, it should pop up in the list.
4. Add It: Click "Add Device" next to your printer, and Windows 11 will take over from there, integrating it into your system seamlessly.

When All Else Fails: Adding by IP Address​

If your attempt at adding your printer manually results in failure, worry not; there's a way around it. You can add the printer using its IP address.

Finding Your Printer's IP Address​

1. Use an IP Scanner: You can download a free app like Advanced IP Scanner. Install or run it without installation (your choice!). Click scan, and you’ll see all devices connected to your network—including your printer.
2. Locate the Printer’s IP: Look for your printer in the list and note its IP address.

Adding the Printer to Your PC​

1. Back to Settings: Go back to the "Printers & Scanners" section in your Settings.
2. Add Manually: Select "Add Device" and then click "Add Manually."
3. Input IP Address: Choose "Add a Printer Using an IP Address or Hostname," paste in the IP address you copied earlier, and follow the prompts to finish the installation.

Printing a Test Page​

Now that your printer is installed, you’ll want to ensure it works perfectly. The easiest way? Print a test page!

• Open Printers & Scanners in Windows Search.
• Select your newly-added printer and choose "Print Test Page." If your printer has a soul, it will dutifully start whirring away, churning out that test page.

Troubleshooting Tips​

Despite following all these steps, have you encountered hiccups? Don't throw your printer out the window yet! Here are some quick troubleshooting tips:

1. Reboot Your PC: If the printer isn't showing up, try restarting your Windows 11 PC. Sometimes a fresh start is all it needs!
2. Wi-Fi Network Check: Make sure your printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your PC. It might be hanging out on another network, and we'll need to fix that.
3. Driver Installation: Windows 11 might not have installed all the necessary drivers. Download the required drivers from the printer manufacturer's support pages, reinstall them, and restart your PC.
4. Run the Printer Troubleshooter: Head to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other Troubleshooters, and hit "Run" next to "Printer." Follow the on-screen instructions, and it should resolve most common issues.

In Conclusion​

Connecting a Wi-Fi printer to your Windows 11 PC doesn't have to be rocket science. Whether you're introducing it to your network for the first time or inviting it back into your digital family, each method has its charm and ease. With these steps, you'll be printing from the comfort of your couch before you know it. So, what’re you waiting for? Happy printing!
Source: How-To Geek How to Install a Wi-Fi Printer on Windows 11