Have you ever wanted to set a default printer in Windows 10 but weren’t quite sure how to do it? No worries! In just a few simple steps, you can make sure your print jobs go to the right printer every time. Follow this guide, and you’ll be able to set your preferred printer as the default in no time.
How to Set Default Printer in Windows 10
Setting a default printer in Windows 10 ensures that all your print jobs go to a specific printer unless you decide otherwise. This is especially useful if you have multiple printers connected to your computer. Here’s how to do it in just a few simple steps:
Step 1: Open the Settings App
Click on the Start menu and select the gear icon to open the ‘Settings’ app.
The Settings app is your go-to place for managing most of the system configurations. Finding it is easy – just look for the familiar cogwheel icon.
Step 2: Go to Devices
In the Settings window, click on ‘Devices’.
The Devices section houses all the settings related to connected devices, including printers. It’s the second option from the top in the Settings menu.
Step 3: Click on Printers & Scanners
Select ‘Printers & Scanners’ from the left-hand menu.
Here, you’ll find a list of all printers and scanners currently connected to your computer. This is where you’ll manage your printer settings.
Step 4: Select Your Printer
Click on the printer you want to set as the default.
A list of available printers will be displayed. Simply click on the one you prefer to use as your default.
Step 5: Click on Manage
After selecting your printer, click the ‘Manage’ button.
This opens up more detailed options for the printer you’ve chosen, including the ability to set it as the default.
Step 6: Set as Default Printer
Click ‘Set as default’ to make this printer your default.
After clicking ‘Manage,’ you’ll see an option to set the printer as default. Clicking this will finalize your choice.
Once you complete these actions, Windows will remember your chosen printer and send all print jobs to it by default.
Tips for Setting a Default Printer in Windows 10
- Check Printer Status: Make sure the printer you want to set as default is turned on and connected.
- Update Drivers: Ensure that the printer drivers are updated for seamless operation.
- Multiple Printers: If you have multiple printers, label them clearly for easy identification.
- Network Printers: For network printers, ensure your computer is connected to the same network.
- Permissions: If you’re on a work computer, you might need administrative permissions to set the default printer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I see my printer in the list?
If your printer isn’t showing up, it might not be properly connected or its drivers might need an update.
Can I change the default printer later?
Yes, you can change the default printer anytime by following the same steps.
What happens if the default printer is offline?
If the default printer is offline, Windows will usually prompt you to choose another available printer.
Can I set a wireless printer as default?
Absolutely! As long as the wireless printer is connected to your network, you can set it as the default.
Do I need special software to set a default printer?
No special software is needed. Everything can be done through the Windows 10 Settings app.
Summary of Steps to Set Default Printer in Windows 10
- Open the Settings App.
- Go to Devices.
- Click on Printers & Scanners.
- Select Your Printer.
- Click on Manage.
- Set as Default Printer.
Conclusion
And there you have it – setting a default printer in Windows 10 is a breeze! By following these simple steps, you can streamline your printing process and make sure your documents always go to the right place. Whether you’re a student printing homework, a professional handling office tasks, or just someone who likes to print photos, knowing how to set a default printer can save you time and hassle.
If you found this guide useful, why not explore more features of Windows 10? From customizing your desktop to managing system updates, there’s a lot you can do to make your computer work just the way you like it. Happy printing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.