The default printer is the device Windows selects automatically when an application does not specify another printer. Windows 10 can manage that choice for you, or you can select a fixed default yourself.
Choose a specific default printer
- Open Settings.
- Select Devices > Printers & scanners.
- If Let Windows manage my default printer is enabled, turn it off.
- Select the printer you want to use.
- Choose Manage.
- Select Set as default.
When Windows manages the default automatically, it may use the printer you used most recently at your current location. Disable that behavior when you need one printer to remain the default.
If the printer is missing
Confirm that it is powered on and connected by USB or to the correct network. For a work printer, you may need the organization’s print server or approved driver. Avoid downloading printer drivers from unrelated driver sites when the manufacturer or Windows Update provides the appropriate package.
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.