Is your printer suddenly missing from your list of devices even though it’s connected and powered on? This can happen after a Windows update, a user account change, or even a minor system hiccup. The good news? In most cases, bringing your printer back is quick and painless.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make your printer visible again on Windows 10 and Windows 11, and how to ensure it’s available to multiple user accounts—without reinstalling drivers from scratch.
🔒 Disclaimer
This article is intended for general informational purposes only. We are not associated with, endorsed by, or connected to any printer manufacturer or software provider. We do not distribute drivers, offer branded services, or provide technical repairs. For official updates and model-specific instructions, always visit your printer manufacturer’s official website.
Why a Printer May Disappear in Windows
There are several common reasons a printer may no longer appear in your device list:
- User-Based Installation: Some printers are installed only for the user who set them up and won’t automatically appear for other accounts.
- Windows Updates: Major updates can reset device settings or hide printers temporarily.
- Minor System Errors: Background services or drivers may fail to load correctly.
- Network Changes: If a network printer’s IP address changes, Windows may lose track of it.
In most situations, the printer drivers are still installed—you just need to reconnect or re-add the device.
🔌 Scenario 1: Re-Adding a USB Printer
If a USB-connected printer no longer appears under Printers & Scanners, try the following:
- Verify the Connection:
Make sure the USB cable is firmly connected and the printer is turned on. - Open Printer Settings:
Go to Start > Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Printers & Scanners. - Select “Add Device”:
If Windows detects the printer, click to add it. - Test the Printer:
Open Manage and select Print a test page to confirm it’s working.
📡 Scenario 2: Re-Adding a Network or Wi-Fi Printer
If your wireless or network printer isn’t showing up:
- Check Network Connection:
Ensure the printer is connected to Wi-Fi and online. - Go to Printer Settings:
Navigate to Start > Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Printers & Scanners. - Click “Add Device”:
If your printer appears, select it to re-add. - Run a Test Print:
Print a test page to verify proper setup.
👥 Scenario 3: Making a Printer Available to Another User Account
If the printer works under one Windows account but not another:
- Log into the Other User Account.
- Open Printer Settings:
Go to Settings > Printers & Scanners > Add Device. - Allow Automatic Detection:
Windows should find the existing printer automatically. - Add and Test:
Click Add, then print a test page to confirm access.
🛠️ If Your Printer Still Doesn’t Appear
When automatic detection fails, manual setup usually solves the problem:
- In the Add a printer or scanner window, click
“The printer that I want isn’t listed.” - Choose the appropriate option:
- Local Printer: Select Add a local printer and choose the correct port (such as USB001).
- Network Printer: Select Add a printer using a TCP/IP address and enter the printer’s IP address.
- Bluetooth Printer: Choose Add a Bluetooth or wireless printer if applicable.
- Select the Driver:
Pick your printer’s brand and model from the list. If it’s missing, click Windows Update or use Have Disk… if you already have the driver files. - Finish Setup:
Name the printer and click Next to complete the process.
🔚 Final Thoughts
A missing printer can be frustrating, but it rarely means you need to reinstall everything. Whether you’re reconnecting a USB printer, restoring a network printer, or enabling access for another user account, Windows includes built-in tools to handle the job efficiently.
For model-specific instructions, firmware updates, or official software, always refer to your printer manufacturer’s official support website.