How to Change Printer Name in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

//

Michael Collins

Changing the name of your printer in Windows 11 is a straightforward task that can be accomplished in just a few short steps. This can be helpful for organizing multiple printers or simply personalizing your devices. Follow these steps to quickly and easily rename your printer.

How to Change Printer Name in Windows 11

In this section, we’ll go through the steps to rename your printer in Windows 11. By following these steps, you can easily change the name of your printer to whatever you prefer.

Step 1: Open the Settings App

Navigate to the Start menu and click on the gear icon to open the Settings app.

To get to the Settings app, you can also use the keyboard shortcut "Windows + I". This will take you directly to the main Settings page where you can manage various system preferences.

Step 2: Go to Devices

In the Settings app, click on "Devices" to access printer settings.

Once you are in the Devices section, you’ll see an array of options for managing Bluetooth, printers, and other connected devices. This is where you’ll find the settings for renaming your printer.

Step 3: Select Printers & Scanners

On the left sidebar, select "Printers & Scanners".

This will bring up a list of all printers and scanners currently connected to your computer. From here, you can select the specific printer you want to rename.

Step 4: Choose Your Printer

Find your printer from the list and click on it.

When you click on the printer, a submenu will appear, giving you more options and details about that specific printer.

Step 5: Click on "Manage"

In the submenu, click on the "Manage" button.

The Manage button will lead you to a new page with more options, including the option to change the printer’s name.

Step 6: Click on "Printer Properties"

On the "Manage" page, select the "Printer Properties" link.

This will open a new window with tabs for various settings and properties of the printer.

Step 7: Rename Your Printer

In the Printer Properties window, navigate to the "General" tab and change the printer name in the "Name" field. Click "OK" to save your changes.

After renaming, make sure to click "OK" to apply the changes. You might need to restart your computer or the printer for the changes to take effect fully.

After completing these steps, your printer’s new name will be displayed in all Windows applications and settings where a printer is mentioned.

Tips for Changing Printer Name in Windows 11

  • Make sure the printer is connected and turned on before starting the process.
  • Use a unique name that helps you easily identify the printer, especially if you have multiple printers.
  • If the new name doesn’t show up immediately, try restarting your computer.
  • You can also access the printer settings directly by typing "Printers & Scanners" in the search bar.
  • Make sure you have administrative rights, as you’ll need them to change system settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find the Settings app in Windows 11?

You can either click on the Start menu and select the gear icon, or use the keyboard shortcut "Windows + I" to open the Settings app.

Can I rename a network printer?

Yes, you can rename a network printer using these same steps. Just ensure the printer is connected to your network.

Do I need admin rights to change the printer name?

Yes, you need administrative rights to change system settings, including the printer name.

What should I do if the new printer name doesn’t show up?

Try restarting your computer or the printer. This usually helps apply the new name.

Can I change the name back to its original?

Yes, you can change the printer name as many times as you want by following the same steps.

Summary

  1. Open the Settings App.
  2. Go to Devices.
  3. Select Printers & Scanners.
  4. Choose Your Printer.
  5. Click on "Manage".
  6. Click on "Printer Properties".
  7. Rename Your Printer.

Conclusion

Changing the printer name in Windows 11 is a simple yet effective way to manage and personalize your devices. Whether you’re dealing with multiple printers or just want a more descriptive name, this guide has got you covered. It’s a quick process that can save you time and hassle in the long run.

If you followed the steps correctly, your printer should now have its new name displayed in all relevant Windows settings and applications. This makes it easier to identify the printer you want to use, especially in a multi-printer environment.

Feel free to revisit this guide anytime you need to rename another printer or if you encounter any issues. For more tips and tricks on managing your Windows 11 devices, check out our other articles. Happy printing!