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Setting a Default Printer

What is a Default Printer and How to Set One?

📝 Cheat Sheet

Default Printer

A default printer is the printer the OS uses automatically for print jobs unless the user selects a different one. Setting one saves time when a computer has multiple printers connected. There are 4 steps to set a default printer in Windows:

  1. Open Settings: open the Start Menu and select “Settings,” then choose “Devices”
  2. Access Printers & Scanners: select “Printers & Scanners” from the left menu
  3. Select the Printer: click the printer you want to set as default
  4. Set as Default: click “Manage,” then select “Set as default”

The default printer shows a checkmark next to its name in the printer list.

Definition of a Default Printer

A default printer is the printer the operating system uses automatically for print jobs. When you print a document, it goes to the default printer unless you choose a different one.

❓ Pop Quiz
A user prints a document without selecting a printer and it goes to the wrong device. What should they do to fix this permanently?

Advantages and Purpose

Setting a default printer makes printing easier. You do not have to select a printer every time you print a document. This is useful when your computer has multiple printers connected. You can still choose a different printer for any specific job when needed.

Setting a default printer is especially helpful in office environments with networked printers, where selecting the correct one each time could cause unnecessary delays.

How to Set a Printer as the Default

Follow these steps on a Windows operating system to set a default printer:

  1. Navigate to Settings Open the Start Menu and select “Settings.” Then choose “Devices.”

  2. Access Printers & Scanners In the Devices menu, select “Printers & Scanners” from the left-hand toolbar.

  3. Select the Desired Printer Find the printer you want from the list. Click on it to see more options.

  4. Manage and Set as Default Click the “Manage” button, then select “Set as default.” The selected printer will now be used for all print jobs.

Flashcard
What is a default printer?
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Answer

The printer the OS sends print jobs to automatically.

When a computer has multiple printers connected, the default printer is used unless the user picks a different one. A checkmark appears next to its name in the Printers & Scanners list.

Important Notes

  • Automatic Printer Selection: Some systems let Windows choose the default printer automatically. It will use the last printer you used in the current session. You can find this option in “Printers & Scanners” settings.
  • Verifying Default Status: The default printer shows a checkmark next to its name in the printer list under “Printers & Scanners.”
Last updated on • Talha
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