novyza

Novyza

Menu

Restoring Wireless or USB Printer Visibility on Windows 10 & 11

Is your printer missing from your device list even though it’s properly connected? This can happen after a Windows update, when switching user accounts, or due to minor system changes. The good news — restoring visibility is simple and only takes a few quick steps.

This article explains how to make your printer appear again on Windows 10 and 11, and how to share it across multiple user accounts — all without reinstalling any software.

🔒 Disclaimer

This content is for general informational purposes only. We are an independent website and not connected with any hardware or software companies. We do not provide downloads, repairs, or remote services. For model-specific instructions, please refer to the official documentation of your device manufacturer.

💡 Why the Printer May Not Show Up

Several factors can cause your printer to stop appearing in the list of available devices:

  • User Account Restrictions: The printer might be linked to a specific profile, hiding it from others.

  • Windows Updates: Updates may reset certain printer settings or visibility preferences.

  • Temporary Software Interruptions: Minor background processes can affect device recognition.

  • Network Changes: A new IP address can prevent automatic detection on Wi-Fi or Ethernet connections.

Fortunately, most configurations stay stored within Windows, so reconnecting is easy.

🔌 Option 1: Adding a USB Printer

If your printer uses a USB connection:

  1. Ensure the cable is plugged in firmly and the printer is powered on.

  2. Open Start > Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Printers & Scanners.

  3. Select Add Device and wait for your printer to appear.

  4. Choose your printer, then print a test page to confirm everything works.

📡 Option 2: Connecting a Wireless or Network Printer

For Wi-Fi or Ethernet printers:

  1. Confirm that your printer is connected to the correct network.

  2. Open Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Printers & Scanners.

  3. Select Add Device and choose your printer from the list.

  4. Print a test page to confirm successful connection.

👥 Option 3: Sharing Access Between User Accounts

If one user can print but others cannot:

  1. Log into the account that needs access.

  2. Go to Settings > Printers & Scanners > Add Device.

  3. Allow Windows to automatically detect the printer.

  4. Add it and test to ensure proper functionality.

🧭 If the Printer Still Doesn’t Appear

When automatic detection doesn’t work:

  1. Click “The printer that I want isn’t listed.”

  2. Choose a connection type:

    • Local Connection: Select “Add a local printer” and the correct port (e.g., USB001).

    • Network Connection: Choose “Add a printer using a TCP/IP address” and enter the address.

    • Bluetooth Printer: Select “Add a Bluetooth or wireless printer,” if supported.

  3. Choose the appropriate driver from the list or update automatically through Windows.

  4. Complete the process and confirm by printing a test page.