Ongoing problem

[ChannyC75]

I’ve had issues with this printer from the second I bought it. I already had a newish one at home, HP, I had issues w that one too. Do we need a degree to be able to connect a printer these days? That’s how it feels! It’s one of those tasks that leaves me completely bewildered. I like to think I’m pretty intelligent & can work out most things but it’s one of the few things Ive tried to master but always failed! I just cannot conquer the art of trying to connect a printer…..why do we need to be members have online accounts to use a printer? Or do we need to be one at all? I’m so confused…….

[rs-eos]

In order to help, you're going to need to specify the exact model of your printer, what operating system you're using (e.g. macOS 26, Windows 11) and how you're connecting to the printer (USB cable, wirelessly).

[DerrickL]

I rarely have an issue connecting a printer that I can  not resolve. That could be because I have experience building pcs, setting them up and installing business networks with multiple printers. I learned a number of things about connecting printers sharing a network or connected to only one pc. 

1. When connecting a single device to a printer use a wired connection (USB or ethernet) when available, avoid wireless whenever possible. For multiple pcs or devices use print and file sharing  if possible and it usually is.  The latter takes a bit more computer knowledge to implement. 

If the printer allows both wired and wireless to operate at the same time, and connecting to a pc and other devices at the same time then use both if needed. 

2. Download the latest drivers and software for the printer, first, and the same for your OS. 

3 Start the Install all the software before connecting the printer.

4. Connect the printer when prompted to do so, avoid a USB hub if possible (that depends on the hub)  

5. Always use the same USB port, hub or direct connect. Use the port for the printer only.   USB pors are not as universal as you might think. 

[shadowsports]

Hi @ChannyC75,

We'll do our best to help, but as my colleague mentioned we need some additional information.

Printer model, operating system, connection method, challenge or errors you are receiving?

The challenges you are having. I don't think it's the printers you are using, instead networks have become more complex.  People's homes have many more connected devices now and the requirements for each one can differ slightly.

Computer operating systems have also become more complex. They do more, and because of that, a deeper understanding is required. 

We'll do our best to help once you reply with answers to our questions above.