To add a printer in Windows 10, select Start > Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners, then select Add a printer or scanner. Wait for Windows to find your printer, select it, and select Add device. Windows installs the driver for you.
Applies to: Windows 10. Checked against Microsoft Support on September 25, 2026.
Before you start
- Turn the printer on.
- For a wireless printer, connect it to the same Wi-Fi network as your PC. Use the printer’s own screen or its setup guide for this step.
- For a USB printer, plug it in. Windows usually adds it on its own within a minute.
Add a printer from Settings
- Select Start > Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners.
- Select Add a printer or scanner.
- Wait for the list to fill, select your printer, and select Add device.
When it’s done, the printer shows in the list under Printers & scanners. Select it and choose Manage > Print a test page to check it.
If your printer isn’t listed
- After the search finishes, select The printer that I want isn’t listed.
- Pick the option that fits your printer, select Next, and follow the steps.
The options are:
- Add a printer using a TCP/IP address or hostname for a network printer when you know its IP address. The printer can print its address on a network report.
- Add a Bluetooth, wireless or network discoverable printer to search again.
- Select a shared printer by name for a printer shared from another PC.
- Add a local printer or network printer with manual settings for an older USB printer.
Install the printer maker’s software
Some printers need the maker’s driver or app for scanning, ink levels, or two-sided printing. Download the Windows 10 version from the maker’s website, not from a third-party download site.
Frequently asked questions
Why can’t Windows find my printer?
Restart the printer and your PC, and check that both are on the same network. Turn off any VPN while you add the printer. Then try Add a printer using a TCP/IP address or hostname.
The printer was added but shows as offline. What now?
See how to get a printer back online in Windows 10.
How do I set my new printer as the default?
In Printers & scanners, clear Let Windows manage my default printer. Then select the printer and choose Manage > Set as default.
If Windows can’t find the right driver, see how to install or update printer drivers in Windows 10.
To use one printer from several PCs, see how to share a printer in Windows 10.
To change color, paper size, or two-sided printing, see how to change printer settings in Windows 10.
To take an old printer off your PC, see how to remove a printer in Windows 10.
Microsoft’s guide is Add or install a printer in Windows. More help is on our Windows Help & Guides page.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.