How to Fix Printer Sharing Not Working in Windows 11

Sharing a printer across your Windows 11 network allows multiple devices to print without needing a dedicated printer for each. If printer sharing suddenly stops working, it can be frustrating and hinder your productivity. This guide walks you through the steps to troubleshoot and fix printer sharing issues in Windows 11, ensuring your networked printing functions smoothly again. Before starting, make sure you have administrator access to your Windows 11 PC, and that your printer is properly installed and connected to the host computer (the one sharing the printer).

What You’ll Need

• Administrator privileges on your Windows 11 PC
• Active network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet)
• Printer properly installed on the host computer
• Access to network settings

Step-by-Step

1. Ensure Printer is Properly Installed and Shared
   • Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
   • Select your printer and click on ‘Printer properties.’
   • Navigate to the ‘Sharing’ tab.
   • Check ‘Share this printer’ box. Assign a share name if needed.
   • Click ‘Apply’ and ‘OK.’
2. Enable Network Discovery and File Sharing
   • Open Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings > Network and Sharing Center.
   • Click ‘Change advanced sharing settings.’
   • Expand your current network profile (Private or Public).
   • Turn on ‘Turn on network discovery’ and ‘Turn on file and printer sharing.’
   • Save changes.
3. Configure Firewall Settings
   • Open Windows Security > Firewall & network protection.
   • Click ‘Allow an app through firewall.’
   • Ensure ‘File and Printer Sharing’ is checked for Private and Public networks.
   • Click ‘Change settings’ if needed and confirm changes.
4. Check Printer Sharing Service Status
   • Press Windows + R, type ‘services.msc’, and press Enter.
   • Locate ‘Function Discovery Resource Publication’ and ensure it’s running.
   • Similarly, verify ‘SSDP Discovery’ and ‘UPnP Device Host’ are active.
   • If any are stopped, right-click and select ‘Start.’
5. Connect the Client Computer to the Shared Printer
   • On the client computer, go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
   • Click ‘Add a printer or scanner.’
   • Select ‘The printer that I want isn’t listed.’
   • Choose ‘Select a shared printer by name’ and enter the network path (e.g., \\ComputerName\PrinterName).
   • Follow prompts to complete the connection.
6. Test the Printer Sharing
   • Print a test page from the client computer.
   • If the print job goes through, your sharing setup is successful.

Common Mistakes

• Not enabling sharing on the printer or network profile.
• Using the wrong network profile (Public instead of Private).
• Firewall blocking printer sharing traffic.
• Incorrect network path when connecting from client computers.
• Printer driver issues or outdated drivers.
• Not restarting the print spooler service after configuration changes.

Tips

• Always restart your computer after changing sharing or network settings to apply changes.
• Use the same network profile (Private) on all devices for smoother sharing.
• Keep your printer drivers updated to avoid compatibility issues.
• Ensure all devices are on the same network segment.
• Disable VPNs temporarily if they interfere with local network sharing.
• Run the Windows Troubleshooter for network or printer problems via Settings > System > Troubleshoot.

Troubleshooting

If printer sharing still doesn’t work after following these steps, consider these troubleshooting tips:

• Restart all involved computers and the printer to refresh network connections.
• Check for Windows updates, as patches can fix bugs related to sharing.
• Reinstall the printer drivers on both host and client computers.
• Disable any third-party firewall or security software temporarily to test if they’re blocking sharing.
• Use the Windows Printer Troubleshooter: go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Printer.
• Verify the network profile is set to Private on all devices, as Public profiles restrict sharing.
• Ensure the printer is set as default on the host computer.
• Check for IP conflicts or network issues that might prevent devices from seeing each other.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why can’t my other devices see the shared printer?

This could be due to network discovery being disabled, the printer not being shared correctly, or firewall settings blocking access. Ensure sharing is enabled, the devices are on the same network, and firewall rules permit printer sharing.

2. How do I find the network path of my shared printer?

Go to the printer properties on the host computer, under the ‘Sharing’ tab, and note the network path, usually in the format \\ComputerName\PrinterName. You can also right-click the printer, select ‘Properties,’ and copy the network path.

3. What if my printer driver is outdated or incompatible?

Visit the printer manufacturer’s website to download and install the latest drivers compatible with Windows 11. Using generic drivers can also help in some cases.

4. Can I share a USB printer over Wi-Fi?

Yes, by sharing the printer on the host computer connected via USB and ensuring network sharing is enabled, other devices on the same network can access it.

5. How do I troubleshoot if the printer shows as offline?

Ensure the printer is turned on, connected properly, and set as default. Restart the printer and the computer, and check network connectivity. Reinstall drivers if needed.

6. Is it safe to enable printer sharing on my network?

Enabling sharing is generally safe on private networks. For public Wi-Fi, disable sharing to prevent unauthorized access. Always secure your network with passwords and encryption.

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