Change Any Printer into a Wireless One

These days, it seems like “cutting the cord” is the new buzz phrase. Whether we’re shifting from cable to streaming media, or charging our phones wirelessly, no one wants to be tethered anymore. But if you have a top-performing printer that previously relied on a wired connection to communicate with your computers, does this mean that you need to toss it and upgrade to a wireless model? Not necessarily. If you’re looking for a way to turn your older printer into something worthy of the 21st century, we’ve got the answer with a few practical life hacks.

Workaround #1: The Print Server

For older printers, opting for a wireless print server is a fast and easy way to convert it into a wireless printer. Print servers are fairly inexpensive and are essentially a small box that can be connected to your printer through the USB port.

The Server acts as a network beacon that connects wirelessly with your computer. A bonus is that you can relocate your printer elsewhere if you prefer. As long as the print server is within range to stay connected with your wireless network, you’ll be able to use your printer remotely.

Installation Tips

Always confirm that the print server is compatible with the make and model of your printer before you buy it. During the first pairing, you’ll need to connect the print server to a router using an Ethernet cable. Additionally, you’ll need to install software on the computer to establish the connection. As you install the print server, check whether your printer preferences are still set right and that it has double-sided printing options if it has put them on. This will help you save costs on ink and paper.

Workaround #2: Connect to a Host Computer

This solution works best for homes or offices where multiple computers are attempting to connect with a wired printer. In this case, one of the computers will serve as the primary connection but allow the printer to become visible on the network.

For budget-conscious tech fiends, this is the cheapest option as it requires no additional equipment. You’ll simply need to access the Control Panel (for Windows) or System Preferences (for Macs) to enable printer sharing on the network. However, if the host computer is offline the printer will no longer be accessible wirelessly.

Workaround #3: Opt for a Bluetooth Upgrade

Depending on the computers you’re using, opting for Bluetooth can give you that wireless freedom while bypassing wireless network connectivity — which can be an issue for older printers. To upgrade your printer to Bluetooth, you’ll need to purchase a Bluetooth adapter which usually comes with a dongle that connects to your computer, and a receiver that connects with the printer.

However, you’ll want to pay attention to the Bluetooth version as older versions have much shorter ranges. Whereas Version 1.1 and 1.2 have shorter ranges that begin to struggle after 33 feet, Bluetooth 2.0 and 2.1 can offer ranges of up to 328 feet. Now that your printer is wireless ensure it has a photocopy option, multifunction, or an all-in-one printer if you need to photocopy.

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