Connecting printer to computer

[Brent1950]

How to connect my printer HP Laserjet 4000 (its a older printer) to my HP computer that runs windows 11?

[70007]

Hello Brent1950,

Thank you for posting your concern,

Connecting Your HP LaserJet 4000 Printer to a Windows 11 Computer

Below are step-by-step instructions to connect your HP LaserJet 4000 printer to a computer running Windows 11 using a USB connection or network setup. Since Windows 11 is the successor to Windows 10, the instructions are applicable due to the similar architecture:

Using USB Connection:

1. Prepare your Printer and Computer:

   • Ensure your printer is turned off before starting.
   • Prepare a USB cable that matches your printer port.

2. Install Printer Software:

   • While HP typically supports software for newer operating systems, you should check on HP’s official support page for any available Windows 11 drivers or use Windows 10 drivers if they are compatible.
   • Insert the Printer Software Setup CD, if you have one, into your computer’s CD drive and follow the on-screen instructions.
   • If you do not have the CD, download necessary drivers from HP’s support website.

3. Connect the Printer:

   • Plug the USB cable into the printer and the other end into an available USB port on your computer.
   • Power on the printer.

4. Complete the Setup:

   • Windows should automatically detect the printer and complete the installation.
   • If the printer is not automatically detected, go to** Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners**, and click "Add a printer or scanner". Allow Windows to find and install the new printer.

Using Network Connection (If Applicable):

1. Prepare your Network:

   • Connect the printer to the network using an Ethernet cable.
   • Ensure that your printer is on the same network as your computer.

2. Check Printer IP Address:

   • Use the printer’s control panel to navigate to I/O Setup > Fast Ethernet (or Jetdirect if installed) and select Show Configuration to see the IP address.

3. Add the Printer on Windows 11:

   • Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners.
   • Click "Add a printer or scanner" and then choose to “Add a network printer using TCP/IP address.”
   • Enter the printer’s IP address when prompted.

4.** Follow the On-Screen Instructions:**

• Complete the network setup as instructed by the wizard.

These steps will help you successfully connect your HP LaserJet 4000 to a Windows 11 PC. If you encounter compatibility issues, it may be necessary to refer to HP’s support for potential updates or workarounds specific for Windows 11 users.