Assigning A Port For Your Wireless Printer

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Updated Jun 27, 2022 11:13 PM

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Connecting a top-rated printer to a computer is as easy as plug-and-play. All you need to do is plug one end of the cable into your printer and the other into your network or computer. A more challenging task for a novice computer user is connecting a wireless printer and assigning a port. Even when you think everything has worked out smoothly, as it should. It is still more challenging than plugging a cable into your computer. This quick guide will show you how to assign a printer port in order to save you time when you’re busy and need to get work done fast, especially if you’re using one of the best printers for small businesses.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Before setting up your printer, check the owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website to determine if your printer supports wireless connections.
  • Bluetooth and IrDA- enabled printers are still considered wireless printers.
  • Since you are using a wireless printer, your port can either be WSD, Network, or IP.

It’s essential to note that there is currently more than one type of wireless printing. Bluetooth and IrDA- enabled printers are still considered wireless printers. Therefore, before setting up your printer, check the owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website for your printer’s specifications.

How to Assign a Printer Port

Finding your wireless printer port on your Windows computer is a relatively simple task. Do the following on your Windows computer:

  1. First, check that your portable printer is connected to the mains and turned on. Type “devices” on the search bar and select “Devices and Printers.”
  2. Your printer model and name will be visible once you select “Device and Printers.” Right-click on your printer model and click on the “Printer Preferences” dialog box.
  3. Select the “Ports” tab from the “Printer Preferences” dialog box.
  4. Look through the lists of ports and make sure the port type matches the connection you are using. For example, if the printer uses a USB connection, the port needs to be USB or DOT4 on the ports list description selected. Since you are using a wireless printer, your Port can either be WSD, Network, or IP in the description.

Finally, click “Okay” to accept any changes. Your wireless printer is now connected to the correct port. Be aware of compatibility concerns if you have a Mac, such as a Macbook Air or Pro. If you’re concerned about compatiblity and want to make sure all your devices work together, consider reading our guide on finding the ideal printer for Macbook Air.

How to Check if the Printer Port Setting is Accurate

It is essential that the port setting is correct for your computer to connect to your wireless printer.

Since the printer will be connected to a network through a network interface (wireless), your port needs to be set to, for example, HP Print Port or EpsonNet Print Port. The port on the list that is ticked needs to indicate this— for example, your wireless printer’s IP address may appear (172.xxx.xxx.xxx or 192.xxx.xxx.xxx if you are on a corporate network.)

Make sure that your printer’s correct IP is listed. You can do this by printing a network status sheet and locating your device. You can then go ahead and print on 11.7 x 16.5 inches A3 printer paper. You can always confirm what size is a3 print if you are unsure if your printer will print it well.

Once you are sure the port is correct, test the connection between your computer and wireless printer by sending a test page. Ensure that you have an idea of what paper for laser printer works perfectly if you wish to get a better quality printout.

F.A.Q.S

What port should my wireless printer be connected to?

Since you are using a wireless printer, your port can either be WSD, Network, or IP.


How do I verify that my wireless printer is connected to the correct port?

On the Ports” tab from the “Printer Preferences” dialog box, look through the lists of ports and make sure the port type matches the connection you are using. Alternatively, You can do this by printing a network status sheet and locating your device.


Is my Bluetooth-enabled printer wireless?

Yes, Bluetooth and IrDA- enabled printers are still considered wireless printers.


Will my computer automatically detects my printer once connected to my network?

It depends. Your computer will automatically detect your printer if it’s the only device in the network. If you are using a corporate network with several printers and devices, you’ll need to assign a port to your wireless printer manually.


STAT: The U.S printer and copier segment volume are expected to amount to 11 million pieces by 2025. Its revenue is estimated at $1.4 million in 2021, growing at -1.95 per year. (source)

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