How to Find Printer and Scanner on Your Windows or Mac Computer

Author: Adam Smith

Knowing how to find your printer and scanner on a Windows or Mac computer is essential for managing print and scan tasks. Whether you're setting up a new device, troubleshooting connection issues, or checking the status of an existing printer or scanner, locating them through your computer’s settings is the first step. Here's a detailed guide for both operating systems.

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Finding Printer and Scanner on Windows (10/11) 1. Open the Settings Menu

The most direct way to find your printer and scanner is through the Windows Settings menu.

  • Click the Start button (Windows icon) on the bottom-left corner of your screen.

  • Select Settings (gear icon).

  • Click on Devices (for Windows 10) or Bluetooth & Devices (for Windows 11).

  • Choose Printers & scanners from the left-hand menu.

Here, you’ll see a list of all printers and scanners connected to your computer, either via USB, WiFi, or Bluetooth.

2. Use the Control Panel (Alternative Method)

If you prefer the classic interface:

  • Open the Control Panel (search for it in the Start menu).

  • Click on Devices and Printers under Hardware and Sound.

  • You’ll see icons for each connected printer and scanner.

This method also allows you to view the status of each device, set a default printer, or troubleshoot any issues.

3. Use the Search Bar

Another quick method:

  • Press Windows + S to open the search bar.

  • Type Printers & scanners and click on the matching result.

From here, you can manage your connected devices or add a new one.

4. Check Device Manager (Advanced Users)

If you suspect a hardware issue:

  • Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.

  • Expand the categories Printers or Imaging devices to view your installed printers and scanners.

This can help if your devices aren’t showing up in the standard settings.

Finding Printer and Scanner on macOS 1. Use System Settings (macOS Ventura and later)

  • Click on the Apple menu (top-left corner).

  • Select System Settings.

  • Scroll down and click on Printers & Scanners.

  • You'll see a list of all connected printers and scanners. Here you can manage, add, or remove devices.

2. Use System Preferences (macOS Monterey and earlier)

  • Click the Apple menu, then select System Preferences.

  • Choose Printers & Scanners.

  • The left panel will display all printers and scanners currently installed.

You can set the default printer, add new devices, or check the status of any listed printer.

3. Use Spotlight Search

  • Press Command + Spacebar to open Spotlight Search.

  • Type Printers & Scanners, and hit Enter.

This takes you directly to the settings area where you can manage your printer and scanner devices.

Tips for Managing Printers and Scanners

  • Add a New Device: If your printer or scanner isn’t listed, click the "Add a printer or scanner" option in Windows or the "+" button on Mac to begin setup.

  • Set Default Printer: Right-click a printer (on Windows) or use the drop-down menu (on Mac) to make it the default.

  • Check for Errors: Look for warning signs, such as "Offline" status or error messages. Troubleshoot accordingly.

  • Update Drivers: Outdated drivers can cause connectivity issues. Visit the manufacturer’s website to download the latest software.

Conclusion

Finding your printer and scanner on a Windows or Mac computer is a straightforward process once you know where to look. Whether you’re checking the status, changing settings, or installing a new device, both operating systems provide user-friendly tools to help you manage your print and scan devices effectively. Regularly checking these settings ensures smooth and uninterrupted document handling.