how to add new printer to my computer

If you are installing a brand-new printer, your first step should be to follow the instructions included in the box. Typically those instructions will call for installing software and making connections in a specific sequence; doing otherwise can result in an incomplete or failed installation.

Before you begin the actual procedure, check the printer manufacturer’s support site for the latest driver for your printer. Although the driver on the included disc will work, the printer maker likely issued an update or two since the disc was created. If you download a new driver, use it instead of the disc.

If you don’t have any setup instructions or installation discs, you should still search your printer manufacturer’s support site for drivers and an electronic version of the setup guide. If you can’t find any drivers or instructions, and your printer connects via USB, simply plug the printer into your computer and allow either Windows or OS X to attempt to install a set of basic drivers. Keep in mind that these basic drivers usually don’t unlock all the capabilities of a given printer model; you’ll likely need to install drivers from the printer manufacturer to obtain full functionality

Adding a Printer: Windows

If your printer doesn’t connect via USB, and you don’t have setup instructions or drivers, follow these steps.

1. Turn off the PC and connect the printer. Power on both the PC and the printer.

2. In Windows 7, click Start, Devices and Printers. In Vista, click Start, Control Panel, Hardware and Sound, Printers.

3. Click Add a printer.

4. If the printer is physically connected to the PC, click Add a local printer. If the printer is connected wirelessly or over a network, skip to Step 5