Share a USB printer from a Windows11 host. Check the exact model and use these steps only where the stated requirements apply.
Before you begin
Applies to: Printers that meet the stated connection and OS requirements. A printer hosted by a Windows PC; this is not direct Ethernet-printer installation.
Confirm the exact model and current printer status before changing settings.
Step-by-step
- First confirm that the USB printer prints correctly on its host PC. Keep that host powered on and connected.
- Only on a trusted network, set the Windows network profile to Private.
- Open Network & internet > Advanced network settings > Advanced sharing settings; enable Network discovery and File and printer sharing for Private networks.
- Open Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners > the printer > Printer properties > Sharing; enable Share this printer and record its share name.
- On another Windows PC, add the shared printer by name, using \\HostName\ShareName; authenticate when asked.
- Print a client test page. The host must remain awake for clients to print.
Check whether it worked
Repeat the original operation and confirm the problem no longer occurs.
If it still fails
Use the exact model support page; record the full displayed message.
- Do not enable discovery/sharing on an untrusted public network.
- A direct-IP printer normally does not require another PC to share it.
Official sources
These links identify the source and its scope. Check the manufacturer page again before changing a printer setting or buying a part.
- Microsoft — Share a printer as a network printer Checked 2026-11-01; official full page
Useful next steps
Found a mismatch? Request a correction with the public source URL and exact model, without passwords or full serial numbers.