Setting your default printer in Windows 10 is pretty straightforward. You’ll first need to navigate to your printer settings, find your desired printer from the list, and then set it as the default. This ensures that whenever you print something, Windows 10 will use this printer automatically unless you specify otherwise. Ready to dive in? Let’s break it down step-by-step.
Setting Default Printer in Windows 10
We’re about to cover how you can set your default printer in Windows 10. Following these steps will ensure that your preferred printer is used every time you print.
Step 1: Open Settings
Open the ‘Settings’ app on your computer.
To do this, click on the Start menu at the bottom-left corner of your screen and then click on the gear icon, which represents the Settings app. Alternatively, you can press Windows + I on your keyboard to open it directly.
Step 2: Go to Devices
In the Settings window, click on ‘Devices’.
The Devices section is where you’ll manage all hardware connected to your computer, including printers, scanners, and connected Bluetooth devices.
Step 3: Click on Printers & Scanners
From the Devices menu, select ‘Printers & scanners’.
Here you’ll see a list of all printers and scanners currently installed on your computer. This includes both physical and virtual printers.
Step 4: Choose Your Printer
Find your desired printer from the list and click on it.
This highlights the printer you want to set as the default. Make sure it’s the one you use most frequently.
Step 5: Set as Default
Click on the ‘Manage’ button, and then select ‘Set as default’.
This will make the selected printer your default, meaning Windows 10 will always use this printer unless told otherwise.
Once you’ve completed these steps, Windows 10 will use your chosen printer as the default for all printing tasks.
Tips for Setting Default Printer in Windows 10
- Check Printer Status: Ensure your printer is online and connected to avoid issues.
- Update Drivers: Keep your printer drivers up to date for the best performance.
- Use Printer Software: Some printers come with software that can make managing settings easier.
- Test Print: After setting your default printer, do a test print to confirm everything is working.
- Default Printer Options: If you frequently switch printers, consider setting ‘Let Windows manage my default printer’ in the Settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my printer is set as default?
Go to the ‘Printers & scanners’ settings, and your default printer will be labeled as such.
Can I change the default printer back to another one?
Yes, simply follow the same steps and choose a different printer as your default.
Why can’t I see my printer in the list?
Make sure your printer is powered on, connected to your computer, and that the drivers are installed.
What if my printer is not working after setting it as default?
Check if the printer is properly connected and has the necessary drivers installed. You might also need to restart your computer.
Can I have more than one default printer?
No, only one printer can be set as the default at any given time. You can, however, switch the default printer as needed.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Go to Devices.
- Click on Printers & scanners.
- Choose your printer.
- Set as default.
Conclusion
Setting your default printer in Windows 10 is an easy task that can save you time and hassle. By following the simple steps laid out in this guide, you can ensure that your printing tasks are streamlined and efficient. Remember, it’s crucial to keep your printer connected and your drivers up to date for seamless operation.
If you encounter any issues, our FAQ section should help resolve common problems. For those who want to delve deeper, consider exploring printer-specific software or additional Windows 10 settings to further optimize your printing experience.
Now that you know how to set the default printer in Windows 10, you’re well on your way to a more efficient and user-friendly computing experience. Whether for work, school, or personal projects, having the right printer settings can make all the difference. Happy printing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.