Getting your printer set as the default in Windows 11 isn’t too tricky, but sometimes it can be a bit frustrating. You’d think a click would do the job, but Windows can be a bit stubborn, especially if you’ve got multiple printers or after a Windows update. If your print jobs keep ending up at the wrong device, or you’re wasting more time choosing which printer to use than actually printing, this quick guide should sort it out. Setting your default printer right means fewer clicks each time — and saves you a fair bit of hassle. Also, it’s worth checking occasionally because Windows might reset your defaults after updates or driver changes, leaving you scratching your head about which printer is actually set as default. Here’s how to get it sorted easily — no fuss, no extra software needed.
How to Set a Printer as Default in Windows 11
Open Settings quick-smart
Start by pressing Windows + I to open Settings, or click the Start menu and select Settings (gear icon). Sometimes Windows menus can be a bit glitchy, so if you don’t see it straight away, just type “Settings” into the search bar on the taskbar and click on it. Once you’re in, go to the Bluetooth & devices section — because Microsoft likes to shuffle things around.
Go to Devices and Printers & Scanners
In Settings, find and click on Bluetooth & devices (or just Devices on some builds). Then scroll down to Printers & scanners. That’ll show you all connected printers, wired or wireless. If your printer isn’t showing up, make sure it’s plugged in, turned on, and has the latest driver installed. Sometimes, printers get hidden if they’re offline or drivers are a bit out of date — check Device Manager if you need to.
Select your printer and make it the default
Click on the printer you want to use as your default. Once selected, hit the Set as default button. Here’s a little tip: Windows tends to revert to “Let Windows manage my default printer” — which you’ll find as a checkbox nearby. Make sure you *uncheck* that if you want your manual choice to stick. On some setups, leaving it checked can cause your default to switch back automatically, so turning it off gives you more control, especially with multiple printers.
Check it works — and give it a test print
After setting it, do a quick test: try printing a document. If it goes to the right printer, you’re all good. If not, double-check that your preferred printer still shows as the default before you print. Sometimes, Windows needs a restart to really keep the change in place — especially after drivers update or system restarts.
Tips for Fixing Common Printer Default Issues
- Make sure your printer shows up in the list and is online. No point setting a printer Windows can’t see.
- If printing still goes to the wrong device, open the Control Panel (type it in search), go to Devices and Printers, right-click your printer, and select Set as default printer. This sometimes overrides Windows Settings.
- To stop Windows automatically changing defaults, go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners and uncheck “Let Windows manage my default printer”.
- Update your printer drivers if things seem a bit odd — head to the manufacturer’s website or run Windows Update.
- If you’ve got a few printers, consider renaming them with clear names like “Home Office Printer” or “Photo Printer” — makes picking the right one a lot easier.
FAQ
Why can’t I see my printer in the list?
This usually happens if the printer isn’t connected properly or the drivers aren’t installed. Check the cables, Wi-Fi connection, or give it a restart. Sometimes, you might need to update the driver — Windows doesn’t always grab the latest automatically.
How do I add a new printer if it’s not listed?
Head to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners and click Add a printer or scanner. Windows will hunt for available printers. If it doesn’t find yours, and you have the IP address or driver, you can add it manually through the device’s IP address or use the The printer I want isn’t listed option for more choices. Sometimes you’ll need to download drivers from the manufacturer’s site first.
What if I accidentally set the wrong printer as default?
No worries — just go back through the steps and select the right one, then click Set as default again. Windows doesn’t mind changing it around, but do it promptly so your print jobs don’t keep going to the wrong printer.
Can I change the default later?
Absolutely. It’s an easy fix — just repeat these steps whenever you want to switch the main printer.
Does this method work on older Windows versions?
Mostly yes. With Windows 10, it’s pretty much the same process. Windows 11 just tends to hide a few options, but you can usually find the same settings in the classic Devices and Printers in the Control Panel if needed.
Summary
- Open Settings ( Windows + I ), then head to Devices.
- Jump into Printers & scanners.
- Pick your printer and click Set as default.
- Optional: turn off “Let Windows manage my defaults” for more control.
Wrap-up
Getting your printer to stay as the default on Windows 11 isn’t exactly hard, but it’s a bit funny how it can reset itself to manage defaults sometimes — typical Windows style. Still, if you follow these steps, it’ll save you from a lot of messing around down the track. Usually, ensuring the right driver’s installed and setting the default properly will do the trick. Keep an eye on driver updates and your connection, and your printing experience should be smooth as. Hope this helps someone cut down on the fiddling and gets you printing hassle-free!