How to Connect a New Printer (Wi-Fi Setup)

Here’s how to get a brand-new printer set up: first onto your Wi-Fi network, then added to Windows 11 or a Mac. This works for HP, Canon, Brother, and most other wireless printers.

First, get the printer onto Wi-Fi

Unbox and power it on — Load paper and install the ink or toner cartridges first
Use its touchscreen or control panel — Look for a Wi-Fi or Network Setup menu, then pick your network
Or use the maker’s app on your phone — HP Smart, Canon’s app, or Brother’s app can walk you through it
Have your Wi-Fi password handy — You’ll need it either way

How to connect a new printer, step by step

Windows

1Windows 11: add your new printer

Once it’s on your Wi-Fi, go to Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners.

WHAT TO DOClick Add device. Windows finds it on the network; click Add device again to install it.

Connect a new printer: Windows 11: add your new printer

Mac

2Mac: add your new printer

System Settings → Printers & Scanners → Add Printer, Scanner, or Fax.

WHAT TO DOChoose your printer from the list, then click Add.

Mac: add your new printer

A few tips

Set it as your default printer — So you don’t pick the wrong one next time you print
Not showing up? — Double-check the printer and your computer are on the exact same Wi-Fi network
Keep the maker’s app installed — Handy for ink levels, scanning, and firmware updates later

Recap: how to connect a new printer

Get the printer on your Wi-Fi first (panel menu or maker’s app)
Windows: Settings, Bluetooth & devices, Printers & scanners, Add device
Mac: System Settings, Printers & Scanners, Add Printer, Scanner, or Fax
Set it as default, then print a test page

Printable quick guide

Connect a New Printer Wi-Fi Setup (1-page quick guide PDF)

Frequently asked questions

How do I get a new printer onto my Wi-Fi?

Most printers have a touchscreen or control-panel menu for Wi-Fi or Network Setup; pick your network and enter your password there. Many printers also have a phone app, like HP Smart, Canon’s app, or Brother’s app, that can walk you through it.

How do I add a printer on Windows 11?

Go to Settings, then Bluetooth & devices, then Printers & scanners, and select Add device next to Add a printer or scanner. Windows searches the network and lists it; select it and click Add device again to install.

How do I add a printer on a Mac?

Open System Settings, click Printers & Scanners, then click Add Printer, Scanner, or Fax. Select your printer from the list and click Add.

My new printer isn’t showing up on my computer. What should I check?

Make sure the printer and your computer are on the exact same Wi-Fi network (not a guest network), and that the printer finished connecting to Wi-Fi before you try adding it.

If your printer isn’t showing up, make sure it’s on your main Wi-Fi network, not a guest network; guest networks usually keep devices from seeing each other.