Printer settings and support guides

System

Keep your device current and configure core system behavior.

• Update Printer FirmwareFirmware is the software running inside the printer itself, separate from the driver installed on your computer. Manufacturers periodically release firmware updates to fix bugs, improve Wi-Fi reliability, patch security issues, and occasionally add new features.

Network & Internet

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and network connection settings.

• Set Up Wi-Fi PrintingMost consumer printers made in the last decade support connecting directly to your wireless network, either through the printer's own touchscreen menu, a WPS button, or a manufacturer companion app like HP Smart, Canon PRINT, or Epson Smart Panel. Once connected, any device on the same network can print without a cable.
• Share a Printer Across Multiple ComputersA printer connected to Wi-Fi is already shareable by any device on the same network without extra setup, but a USB-only printer can also be shared by enabling printer sharing on the one computer it's plugged into, turning that computer into a print server for the others.

Troubleshooting

Reset, restart, and diagnose common issues.

• Fix Print Quality & Run Print Head CleaningFaded text, colored streaks, or missing lines in printed output are usually caused by dried ink or a partially clogged print head, especially after a printer has sat unused for a while. Most inkjet printers include a built-in cleaning and alignment utility that clears this without any disassembly.

Devices

Mice, keyboards, trackpads, printers, and other connected hardware.

• Connect via USB CableA wired USB connection is the simplest and most reliable way to connect a printer to a single computer, with no network configuration involved. Most printers use a USB-B (square) port on the printer end and USB-A or USB-C on the computer end.

Apps

Installed apps, optional features, and what runs on startup.

• Install or Update Printer DriversDrivers translate print and scan commands from your computer into instructions your printer understands. Installing the manufacturer's full driver and utility package (rather than relying on a generic OS driver) unlocks features like ink monitoring, borderless printing, and scanning.
• Set Up Scan to Computer or CloudAll-in-one printers with a flatbed or document feeder can scan directly to a connected computer, or to cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive through the manufacturer's companion app. Setup typically only needs to be done once per destination.

System Info

Device details, advanced settings, and activation status.

• Check Ink or Toner Levels & Replace CartridgesMost printers can report estimated ink or toner levels through the printer's own display, a companion app (HP Smart, Canon PRINT, Epson Smart Panel), or the OS printer settings. Replacing a cartridge is usually a tool-free process guided by prompts on the printer itself.

Help and tools

• Troubleshooting
• FAQ & Help
• Device info & diagnostics
• Contact & feedback