Windows 10 can automatically discover many USB and network printers. Connect or power on the printer first, then open Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners and add the device.
Add a printer
- Turn on the printer and connect it by USB or to the same network as the PC.
- Open Settings.
- Select Devices.
- Choose Printers & scanners.
- Select Add a printer or scanner.
- Choose the printer when Windows finds it and follow the prompts.
If Windows does not find the printer
Use the option indicating that the printer you want is not listed. Depending on the printer, you may be able to add it by IP address, hostname, shared-printer path, or another supported method.
Use trusted drivers
Windows Update can supply many printer drivers. If the manufacturer provides a model-specific package or setup utility, download it from the manufacturer’s official support site rather than a generic driver-download site.
Network printers need network access
Confirm that the PC and printer can reach the same network and that the printer has a valid network connection. Work printers may require credentials or administrator-managed deployment.
Windows 10 normal support ended October 14, 2025.
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.
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