You bought a printer without a built-in Wi-Fi module, but want to print wirelessly from your laptop, phone, or tablet? This problem is solvable—and doesn't always require buying a new device. Even older models HP LaserJet, Canon PIXMA or Epson EcoTank can be integrated into a home network using intermediate devices or hidden functions.
In this article we will look at 5 proven methods connect a printer without Wi-Fi to a wireless network: from using USB print servers before distributing access via a smartphone. Each method is illustrated in detail, taking into account the nuances of different operating systems (Windows 10/11, macOS, Android/iOS) and router models (TP-Link, ASUS, Keenetic). You'll also learn how to avoid common setup mistakes and what to do if your printer isn't visible on the network.
Before you begin, check: it's possible that your printer does support wireless connectivity, but the feature is disabled. Check the device's menu (usually Settings → Network Settings) or check the documentation for the model. If there is no mention of it there Wi-Fi Direct, AirPrint or WPS — let's read on.
1. Connecting via USB ports of a modern router
Most modern routers (even budget ones) are equipped with USB port, which can be used for extended access to the printer. This method is suitable for devices without Wi-Fi, but with support for printing via USB 2.0/3.0The main advantage is that you don't need to buy additional adapters, and the printer will be accessible to all devices on the local network.
To set up printing via a router:
- 🔌 Connect the printer to the router with a cable USB-A → USB-B (usually included in the kit).
- 🖥️ Go to the router's web interface (address type
192.168.0.1or192.168.1.1, login/password from the sticker on the device). - 📄 Find the section
USB settings(orNetwork Storage / Print Server) and enable the option Printer sharing. - 🔄 Restart your router and check if the device appears in the list of available printers on your devices.
On Windows The printer should be detected automatically after connecting to the router. macOS or Linux Manual driver installation may be required. If the printer is not displayed, check:
- 🔍 Compatibility of the model with your router (a list of supported devices is usually included in the documentation).
- 🔌 Quality of USB cable (try another one).
- 📡 Firewall settings (sometimes it blocks network access to the printer).
Is the printer plugged in?|Is a USB cable included?|Does the router support print server functionality?|Is the router firmware updated?-->
⚠️ Attention: Some routers (eg. Zyxel Keenetic) require pre-installation of proprietary software to work with printers. Download the utility from the manufacturer's official website.
| Router brand | Print server support | Max. print speed | Is software required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| TP-Link Archer C6 | Yes (USB 2.0) | Up to 10 ppm | No |
| ASUS RT-AX55 | Yes (USB 3.0) | Up to 20 ppm | Recommended |
| Keenetic Giga | Yes (USB 3.0) | Up to 15 ppm | Yes (Keenetic Print) |
| MikroTik hAP ac² | Partial (requires configuration) | Depends on configuration | Yes (RouterOS) |
2. Using an external Wi-Fi adapter for the printer
If your router does not support the print server function, you can buy external Wi-Fi adapter (they are also called print servers). These devices connect to the printer via USB or Ethernet, and then Wi-Fi access is shared. Adapters start at 1,500 rubles, but they are universal and work with most printer models.
Popular adapters:
- 📶 TP-Link TL-WPS510U - supports AirPrint And Google Cloud Print, speed up to 150 Mbps.
- 🖨️ Edimax PS-3206U — compatible with Canon, Epson, Brother, there is a port Ethernet.
- 🔗 StarTech ICUSB2321X - for older printers with LPT port (via adapter).
Connection instructions:
- Connect the adapter to the printer and a power outlet.
- Run the installation disk (or download the software from the manufacturer's website).
- In the adapter settings, select your Wi-Fi network and enter the password.
- Install the printer driver on all devices from which you plan to print.
Which printers are not compatible with adapters?
Some older models HP LaserJet 1000-2000 series And Canon BJ do not support external print servers due to proprietary protocols. Also, adapters may not work with 3D printers And wide-format plotters due to specific printing commands.
Important: adapters with support WPS (For example, TP-Link TL-WPS510U) allow you to connect your printer to your router with the click of a button—this speeds up setup and reduces the risk of errors.
3. Wi-Fi distribution from a laptop or PC (virtual print server)
If you have a computer with Windows or macOS, it can be used as a "broker" for Wi-Fi printing. This method is suitable for a temporary solution or when the printer is connected to one PC but needs to print from other devices.
For Windows 10/11:
- Connect the printer to the PC via USB and make sure it works.
- Open
Settings → Devices → Printers & Scanners. - Select your printer and click Control, then Printer properties.
- Go to the tab Access and check the box Share this printer.
- On other devices, add the printer via
\\[PC_IP_address]\printer_name.
For macOS:
- Open
System Preferences → Sharing. - Enable the option Printer sharing.
- On others Mac or iOS-the printer will automatically appear in the list of available devices.
Via a router|External Wi-Fi adapter|Distribution from a laptop|Connection via smartphone|I haven't decided yet-->
⚠️ Attention: With this connection, the host computer must be turned on; otherwise, printing from other devices will be impossible. Also, check your firewall settings—it may be blocking network access to the printer.
4. Connecting via smartphone (Android/iOS) as a bridge
If you don't have a router with a USB port or an external adapter, you can use smartphone as an intermediate link. This method works for most printers with USB or Bluetooth, but requires additional applications.
For Android:
- 📱 Install the application PrinterShare or PrintHand.
- 🔌 Connect the printer to your smartphone via OTG adapter (if supported).
- 🌐 Turn it on on your phone Wi-Fi hotspot.
- 🖨️ Connect other devices to this point and print through the app.
For iOS:
- 📱 Use the app Printer Pro (supports AirPrint).
- 🔌 Connect the printer to Mac or PC, and then turn on sharing (as in the previous method).
- 📡 On iPhone/iPad select printer via
Settings → Printers.
Limitations of the method:
- ⚡ High smartphone battery consumption.
- 📶 Low print speed with a weak Wi-Fi signal.
- 📄 Not all applications support printing documents of complex formats (for example, AutoCAD or CorelDRAW).
5. Alternative solutions: cloud printing and specialized services
If none of the above methods work, consider cloud printing servicesThey allow you to send documents to a printer over the internet, even if it's not directly connected to Wi-Fi. Popular services:
- ☁️ Google Cloud Print (supported by most modern printers).
- 🖥️ HP ePrint (for printers HP with email printing support).
- 🌍 Epson Connect (for devices Epson with function Epson Email Print).
How to set up Google Cloud Print:
- Connect the printer to your PC with Chrome.
- Open
chrome://devicesand add the printer to your Google account. - Install the application on your mobile device Cloud Print.
- Send documents to print via Google Drive or Gmail.
Benefits of cloud printing:
- 📲 Print from any device, even outside your home network.
- 🔒 Security (data is transmitted via an encrypted channel).
- 📂 Support for most formats (PDF, DOCX, JPG).
⚠️ Attention: Service Google Cloud Print officially closed since December 2020, but some manufacturers (eg. HP And Canon) offer their own alternatives. Check the brand's website for support for your model.
Common problems and their solutions
Even after proper setup, your printer may not work over Wi-Fi. Let's look at common errors and how to fix them:
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The printer is not visible on the network | Incorrect router or firewall settings | Check if it is turned on DHCP on the router and disable the firewall for 5 minutes |
| The document is sent to print, but is not printed. | There are no drivers on the client device. | Install the driver from the printer manufacturer's official website. |
| Slow Wi-Fi printing | Weak signal or congested network | Switch the router to a channel 5 GHz or reduce the number of connected devices |
| Error: "No connection to printer" | The printer has entered sleep mode. | Disable power saving mode in the printer settings. |
If the printer is connected via a router, but does not print with Android, try:
- 📱 Install the app Mopria Print Service (for most printers).
- 🔄 Restart the router and printer.
- 📡 Change Wi-Fi security type with
WPA3onWPA2(Some older printers do not support new standards).
FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions
Is it possible to connect an old USB printer to Wi-Fi without additional devices?
No, if the printer is physically missing Wi-Fi module, you'll need at least one intermediate device: a router with a USB port, an external adapter, or a computer for sharing access. The exception is printers that support Wi-Fi Direct (but they usually have a built-in module).
Why does a printer connected via a router only print from Windows, but not from Mac?
Probably on Mac The correct drivers are not installed. Download them from the printer manufacturer's website (section Support or Downloads). Also check if printer sharing is enabled in the router settings for devices. Apple.
What is the most reliable connection method for an office?
For the office we recommend using external Wi-Fi adapter (For example, TP-Link TL-WPS510U) or connecting via a router with a USB port. These methods ensure stable operation and support simultaneous printing from multiple devices. Avoid sharing via a smartphone—it's unreliable for continuous use.
Is it possible to connect a printer without Wi-Fi to a network using Powerline adapters?
Yes, if yours Powerline adapters have a port Ethernet, and the printer supports a network connection via a cable. Connect the printer to the adapter, and the second adapter to the router. This will make the printer part of your local network and accessible via Wi-Fi through the router.
What should I do if my printer is connected to Wi-Fi but only prints hieroglyphs?
This is a typical driver incompatibility issue. Uninstall your current printer driver and reinstall it from the official website. If the problem persists, try:
- Change the document format (for example, from
.docxon.pdf). - Update the printer firmware (instructions are usually included in the manual).
- Use another computer for printing (to rule out an OS problem).