Whether you install a new printer or already have multiple printers installed on your network, you have the option to choose which printer you want to use as your default printer so that Windows and your applications know where to print.
If you are installing a new printer, follow the instructions on your CD. During installation, the Add Printer Wizard is displayed and you will be given the option to install your new printer as the default printer.
Step By Step
1. When the Add Printer Wizard / Default Printer window is displayed, place a check mark in the Yes box, click Next, and continue to follow the instructions.
2. In Windows XP click Start, then select Printers and Faxes.
In Windows Vista click Start, click Control Panel, click Hardware and Sound, click Printers.
In Windows 7 click Start, click Devices and Printers.
Right-click the printer you wish to use as your default printer and select ‘Set as default printer.’ Right-click the printer icon again to verify that the correct printer is now set as the default. When the menu opens, a check mark should appear next to ‘Set as Default.’
3. If a right-click menu doesn’t display the ‘Set as default printer’ option, double-click the printer icon to display the Print Queue. Click on Printer and select ‘Set as default printer’ from the menu. A check mark next to the menu item or printer icon indicates that the printer is now set as the default printer. You can change your default printer setting at any time.
4. Even after you have set a printer as your default, you can still print from other printers on your system or network. To print to a different (secondary) printer, click on the File menu and select Print. The print dialog box displays all installed printers. Select the printer you wish to use and click OK to close the dialog box.