Win11 Home edition Microsoft surface workgroup Laptop unable to connect to Network printer

Question

Hi Team,

can I get some solution to fix the below issue

Laptop: Microsoft Surface

OS: Win11 Home edition

domain joined or workgroup: Workgroup

We have updated the firewall setting to allow the WIFI SSID to access to the network printer.

The issue is when accessing the printer and click connect - it takes quite a bit of time, and it says " cannot connect to the printer"

Windows is up-to-date and the only thing I haven't done is running the windows optional updates. any other suggestions to fix this issue?

Please advise.

Thank you

***moved from Windows / Windows 11 / Devices and drivers***

Answer 1

Hi Team,

I hope this email finds you well.

We have encountered an issue with a Microsoft Surface laptop running Windows 11 Home edition, which is part of a workgroup, unable to connect to a network printer. Despite updating the firewall settings to allow the Wi-Fi SSID to access the network printer, the connection attempt results in a prolonged delay followed by an error message stating, "cannot connect to the printer."

Here is a summary of the current setup and actions taken:

• Laptop: Microsoft Surface
• OS: Windows 11 Home edition
• Domain: Workgroup
• Firewall: Updated to allow the Wi-Fi SSID access to the network printer
• Windows Update: Up-to-date, except for optional updates

We would appreciate any suggestions to resolve this issue. Below are some additional steps you can consider to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the problem:

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Run the Windows Optional Updates:
   • Go to Settings > Windows Update and check for optional updates. Sometimes, these updates include important fixes and drivers for network and printing issues.

2. Update Printer Drivers:
   • Ensure that the printer drivers are up-to-date. Visit the printer manufacturer's website to download and install the latest drivers.
3. Check Printer Status and Network Connectivity:
   • Ensure the printer is powered on and connected to the same network as the laptop.
   • Verify the printer’s IP address and ensure it is accessible from the laptop (you can ping the printer’s IP address from the Command Prompt).
4. Add Printer Manually:
   • Try adding the printer manually using its IP address:
     • Go to *Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners*.
     • Click on *Add a printer or scanner*.
     • Wait for it to search, then select *The printer that I want isn't listed*.
     • Choose *Add a printer using a TCP/IP address or hostname* and follow the prompts.

5. Check Network Discovery and File Sharing Settings:
   • Ensure that Network Discovery and File Sharing are enabled:
     • Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings.
     • Under *Related settings*, click on Advanced sharing settings.
     • Make sure *Turn on network discovery* and *Turn on file and printer sharing* are enabled.
6. Disable Firewall Temporarily:
   • Temporarily disable the firewall to check if it’s blocking the printer connection:
     • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security.
     • Click on *Firewall & network protection*, then select your active network and turn off the firewall.
   • If the connection works with the firewall disabled, you may need to adjust the firewall settings further to allow printer connections.
7. Use the Printer Troubleshooter:
   • Run theb-in Windows printer troubleshooter:
     • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
     • Select *Additional troubleshooters*, then click on *Printer* and run the troubleshooter.

Contact Printer Manufacturer Support

If the above steps do not resolve the issue, consider contacting the printer manufacturer’s support for further assistance.

Please try these steps and let us know if the issue persists. We are here to help you resolve this as quickly as possible.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Best regards,

Rosy