To access Devices and Printers in Windows 11, press Windows + R, type control printers and press Enter, or open Control Panel and choose Hardware and Sound > Devices and Printers. Most of the same controls are also in Settings > Bluetooth & devices, including Printers & scanners. The steps below show each route and how to fix it if the window does not open.
What You’ll Need
- A Windows 11 PC or laptop with administrator access
- Connected devices or printers you want to view or manage
Step-by-Step
- Open the Start menu by clicking the Windows icon on your taskbar or pressing the Windows key on your keyboard.
- Type “Control Panel” into the search bar and select the Control Panel app from the search results. Alternatively, you can press Windows + R, type “control” and press Enter.
- In the Control Panel window, set the “View by” option to “Large icons” or “Small icons” for easier navigation.
- Click on “Devices and Printers” from the list of options.
- Once opened, you will see all connected devices such as printers, scanners, external drives, and other hardware. You can right-click on any device to see options like “Open,” “Troubleshoot,” “Remove device,” or “Properties.”
- If you want to add a new device, click on “Add a device” at the top of the Devices and Printers window and follow the on-screen instructions to connect or install new hardware.
- To manage a specific device, right-click and select “Properties” to access detailed settings, driver information, and troubleshooting tools.
Common Mistakes
- Trying to access Devices and Printers through the Settings app instead of the Control Panel. While Settings is the modern interface, Devices and Printers is more comprehensive via Control Panel.
- Not having administrator privileges, which may restrict access to certain device management options.
- Connecting devices after opening Devices and Printers — some devices may not appear until they are properly connected and recognized by Windows.
- Using outdated or incorrect drivers, which can prevent devices from appearing or functioning correctly.
Tips
- If you frequently access Devices and Printers, consider pinning it to your Start menu or taskbar for quick access.
- Use the “Troubleshoot” option available in device properties if you encounter issues with hardware devices.
- Keep your device drivers up to date to ensure proper detection and functionality of connected hardware.
- For network printers, ensure your PC is connected to the same network as the printer for easier detection.
Troubleshooting
If you cannot access Devices and Printers or your devices are not showing up:
- Restart your computer to resolve temporary glitches.
- Check your device connections—ensure cables are securely plugged in or that your wireless devices are connected properly.
- Update your Windows 11 system and device drivers by going to Settings > Windows Update.
- Run the built-in Troubleshooter by going to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters, then select “Printer” or “Hardware and Devices.”
- If devices still do not appear, try removing and reinstalling the device drivers through Device Manager.
- Verify that your device is compatible with Windows 11, especially for older hardware.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I access Devices and Printers from the Settings app in Windows 11?
While Windows 11’s Settings app offers some device management options, access to the full Devices and Printers interface is through the Control Panel for detailed device management.
2. How do I add a new printer in Windows 11?
Open Devices and Printers, click “Add a device,” select your printer from the list, and follow the prompts to install it.
3. Why don’t my connected devices appear in Devices and Printers?
This may be due to driver issues, connection problems, or devices not being recognized by Windows. Restart your PC and check connections first.
4. How can I troubleshoot device problems in Windows 11?
Use the built-in Troubleshooter via Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters, or update device drivers manually.
5. Is it possible to manage network devices in Devices and Printers?
Yes, network printers and some other network-connected devices can be managed here, provided they are properly connected and recognized.
6. How do I remove a device from Windows 11?
Right-click the device in Devices and Printers and select “Remove device” to uninstall it from your system.
Mastering how to access Devices and Printers in Windows 11 helps streamline device management, troubleshoot problems efficiently, and keep your hardware running smoothly. Follow these steps, avoid common pitfalls, and use the troubleshooting tips to ensure your devices function correctly at all times.
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