how to connect printer to the internet

To connect a printer to the internet (usually via Wi-Fi), you generally need to connect it to your wireless network, which then allows devices on the same network to print wirelessly.

Here are the common methods:

1. **Using the printer’s control panel or touchscreen:**
– Turn on the printer and ensure it is within range of your Wi-Fi network.
– Access the printer’s settings menu.
– Select the Wi-Fi setup option or Wi-Fi Setup Wizard.
– Choose your Wi-Fi network from the list.
– Enter your Wi-Fi password.
– Confirm the connection. The printer will display a message like “Setup Complete” once connected[1][4].

2. **Using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) if supported:**
– Turn on your printer and put it into WPS mode (usually by pressing and holding the Wireless or Wi-Fi button for a few seconds until the wireless light starts blinking).
– Within two minutes, press the WPS button on your wireless router.
– The printer will connect automatically once the WPS process completes and will confirm it on the screen or via the wireless light[1][2][3].

3. **Using a computer or mobile device during initial setup:**
– Run the printer’s setup software on your computer or app on your smartphone.
– Follow the on-screen instructions to select and connect the printer to your Wi-Fi network during installation[4].

Additional notes:
– If your printer does not have built-in Wi-Fi, you may use a wireless print server or a USB Wi-Fi adapter to add wireless capability[4].
– A wireless printer typically doesn’t need internet access to print; it only needs to be on the same local Wi-Fi network as your device. Internet connection becomes relevant if you want features like cloud printing[5].

In summary, connecting your printer to Wi-Fi either via the printer’s own Wi-Fi setup interface or the WPS button on your router is the most straightforward way to get your printer online for wireless printing[1][2][3].