Why is My Computer Not Finding My Wireless Printer?

No doubt, printers are the most useful devices when you have to complete a project or make an exact copy of a document. However, to perform any job on your printer, you need to connect it to a computer device. Also, the printer connects to a compatible computer device seamlessly without any issues. But, if there are any faults in either of the devices, then there could be some issues. Other factors can also be the reasons to get this situation; if you are also dealing with the same problem, then keep reading this blog til the end. Here you will learn about the fundamental causes of computers not finding wireless printer issues and their solutions. 

Main Causes of Computer Not Finding the Wireless Printer

Some of the critical reasons for the computer not finding the wireless printer are given below. 

• Your computer and printer are out of the range of each other. 

• There is some connection issue with the printer or computer. 

• The printer is restricted from your computer device. 

• Your wireless printer is missing the driver or is outdated. 

Solution 1: Start the Troubleshooter on Your PC

First, you have to run a troubleshooter on your device and find any issues. Here is the step to follow to see the problem and solve it. 

1. Start by pressing the Windows, and I buttons on the keyboard. 

2. In the next window, select the System menu option from the left pane. 

3. After that, click on the Troubleshoot option. 

4. Next, choose the Other troubleshooters option in the next window. 

5. Then, look for your printer device and click on Run. 

6. If there are any issues, then it will also provide the relevant solutions. 

7. Select the right option to fix the issue. 

Solution 2: Make the Wireless Printer Available to the Network

Sometimes the printer is restricted to a network connection. So, use the below steps to make sure the printer is available for the network. 

1. Access the Run command box by pressing the Windows+R keys simultaneously on the keyboard. 

2. In the search field, type control and hit the Enter button. 

3. After that, the Control Panel window will show up on the screen. 

4. Choose Network and Internet option and then click on Network and Sharing Center. 

5. In the left pane, you will see the Change Advanced Sharing Settings option; click on it. 

6. See the Turn on Network Discovery field to make sure it is available for the public. Select the option as the follow-up image shows. 

7. Choose the option of Save Changes. 

8. Lastly, check if the printer is connecting to the computer or not. 

Solution 3: Check the Sharing Permission of Your Printer

If you want to connect the printer to a computer, you should give your printer permission for connection. 

1. First and foremost, access the Control Panel on your computer system. 

2. Then move to the Hardware and Sound and click on the Devices and Printers option. 

3. After that, head to the Printers section and right-click on your printer option. 

4. Next, click on the Printer Properties option from the open context menu. 

5. When the new window opens, click on the Sharing tab. 

6. Now, you need to select the option of Share This Printer. 

7. Finally, select the option of Apply option and then select OK. 

Solution 4: Reset the Network Settings of Your Printer

Sometimes printer settings can also be the cause of not joining the computer. Hence, the following steps will help you in solving the issue related to printer settings. 

1. Go to your printer device and use its control panel. 

2. On the control panel, select the Wireless button on the touchscreen. 

3. Next, you are required to tap on the Settings (Gear) icon. 

4. Now, scroll down to select the Restore Network Settings option. 

5. After that, tap on the Yes option. 

6. Once the printer’s default settings are restored, then try to connect the wireless printer to your operating system. 

Solution 5: Adding a Static IP to Your Printer

To solve the printer not connecting the issue to the computer, you can try adding a static IP. Follow the below procedure to do that. 

1. Firstly, access the Settings window on your PC. 

2. After that, you are required to select the option of Bluetooth & devices. 

3. Then head to the Printers and Scanners section. 

4. Next, on the open page, select Print Server Properties. 

5. Open the Port tab in the Print server properties window. 

6. After selecting the Add Port option, click on the option of your printer. 

7. Furthermore, select Standard TCP/IP Port and click on the New Port option. 

8. When the Add Port Wizard window opens, then choose Next. 

9. On the router configuration page, enter the IP address and name you have assigned. 

10. Afterward, select the Next option. 

11. Lastly, check if the printer and computer are connecting to each other.