Changing the name of your printer in Windows 10 is pretty straightforward — but, of course, Windows has to make it a little more complicated than it needs to be. If the printer’s confusingly named or you’ve got a few similar devices cluttering your list, giving it a clear name can save a ton of hassle later. Plus, it’s useful especially if you’re juggling multiple printers at home or in the office. This little tweak can help prevent accidentally sending docs to the wrong printer or wasting time hunting down the right device in your print dialog.
Once you get the hang of it, it’s a quick fix, but the process involves diving into some menus that aren’t exactly front and center. So, here’s a detailed walk-through with some extra details — like commands and menu paths — to make sure it’s not completely guessing work. Sometimes, just restarting the PC after making changes helps confirm everything is updated properly, because Windows loves to be stubborn about showing new names in all spots.
How to Change Printer Name in Windows 10
Open the Control Panel — the old-school way
Start by typing Control Panel into the search bar next to the Start menu and clicking the app that pops up. If you prefer the keyboard, you can press Windows key + S to bring up the search, then type it in. Once inside, head over to Hardware and Sound > Devices and Printers. It’s kinda weird that Windows hides certain settings here, but that’s just how it rolls. Alternatively, if you don’t see it directly, you can open a run dialog (Windows key + R), then type control printers and hit Enter — that should take you straight there.
Find your printer, then go to its Properties
- Look through the list, find the printer you want to rename. Make sure it’s on and connected.
- Right-click on it, then select Printer Properties. Don’t confuse this with Properties under Devices — different menus, same goal.
This opens up a window where you can tweak the printer’s info. If your printer isn’t showing up, double-check the connection, update drivers, or restart your PC. Sometimes, Windows just needs a little nudge to recognize new devices properly.
Rename the printer from the Properties window
Inside the window, click on the General tab. You should see a field labeled Name. This isn’t the device name that shows in Device Manager but the label used in Windows for your printer. Type in a new name — something descriptive, like “Living Room Printer” or “Color Laser” — whatever makes sense for how you organize your devices.
Pro tip: Some folks prefer naming it after the location or what it’s mainly used for. Because of course, Windows has to make it harder than just right-clicking and editing a label somewhere simple… but that’s how it goes.
Save your new name and watch it go live
Hit OK. The change should take effect immediately, and the printer will now be listed under its new name in all relevant places — like print dialogs and the Devices and Printers list. If it doesn’t update right away, restart your PC. Sometimes Windows caches old info and needs a restart before showing the new label properly. On some setups, it’s weird — the name updates the first time you print after the restart, but not immediately elsewhere, so a quick reboot is often the fix.
It’s handy because now your printer is easier to identify and select when you’re hitting print fast. Just a small change that can save a lot of confusion if you’re swapping between multiple similar printers or sharing a setup with other users.
Tips for Changing Printer Name in Windows 10
- Make sure the printer is connected properly because Windows sometimes fails to recognize it if the connection is flaky.
- Pick a unique, recognizable name to keep things simple — like, avoid “Printer 1” when you have three similar ones around.
- If you’re using multiple printers in different rooms, label them by location or purpose: “Basement 3D Printer” or “Kitchen Inkjet.”
- Changing these might need admin rights, so if you’re on a work machine, you might need to ask IT.
- If the new name isn’t showing up right away, don’t forget to restart — it’s an old trick, but it works most times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I see my printer in Devices and Printers?
Make sure the printer’s turned on, plugged in, and has the right drivers installed. Sometimes Windows doesn’t recognize a new device if drivers are missing or corrupt.
Can I rename a network printer if I’m not an admin?
Usually, no — because network printers are often managed by the network admin. If you do not have admin rights, it’s worth asking if they can rename it for you, especially if it’s causing confusion.
Will changing the printer’s name break my print jobs?
No, renaming doesn’t affect the actual hardware or print jobs. It’s just a label in Windows — but nicely done labels make life easier.
What if my printer doesn’t appear after trying to rename it?
Try restarting your PC or reconnecting the printer. Sometimes, Windows just doesn’t want to update immediately. Also, check if the printer driver is up to date.
Summary
- Got to Control Panel > Devices and Printers
- Right-click your printer > Printer Properties
- Change the name under the General tab
- Hit OK — and done!
Wrap-up
Honestly, it’s not the most obvious thing in Windows 10, but changing your printer’s name isn’t a big deal once you know where to look. It helps keep things tidy, especially when you’re juggling multiple printers or just want that sweet personalized touch. Just remember to restart if it doesn’t show up right away — Windows likes to be stubborn.
Hope this shaves off a few minutes figuring it out next time. Sometimes, these tiny tweaks just make life a little easier — or at least less frustrating when you’re trying to print that urgent document and can’t tell which printer is which.