Renaming a printer in Windows 11 might not seem like a big deal, but if you’ve got a bunch of devices connected, it’s a sneaky way to keep things tidy. Sometimes printers have generic names or confusing labels, especially when multiple folks share a machine—so giving it a personalized, clear name can save time hunting down the right one later. It’s pretty straightforward, but not everyone realizes it’s actually doable without digging through menus deep in system files. A little patience and this guide will help you make the switch easily, and you’ll probably wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.
How to Fix or Change a Printer Name in Windows 11
Method 1: Through Settings in Windows 11
This is the main go-to for most, since it’s built into the UI. Renaming via Settings is usually enough if you just want things to look cleaner in the Devices list. It helps clarify which printer is which, especially with multiple similar models floating around. Expect the new name to show up pretty much everywhere your device is recognized—print queues, the device section, and when browsing printers in apps. On some setups, you might need admin rights to change the name, but that’s usually the case for most basic scenarios. Just be aware that Windows can be…a little inconsistent about updating names immediately, so check back after a reboot if it sticks to the old label.
Open Settings
- Click Start or press Windows + I, then choose Settings.
- Alternatively, press Win + R to open the Run dialog, type
ms-settings:, and hit Enter.
Once in Settings, you’re headed straight to device management. Not the most obvious way, but it works.
Navigate to Devices & Printers
- Inside Settings, click on Bluetooth & devices (or just Devices on older versions).
- Scroll down to Printers & scanners. This page lists all your connected printers.
Here’s where the magic happens. Find your printer on the list—you might already see a generic name or something confusing.
Select Your Printer and Access Properties
- Click on the printer you want to rename. You’ll see options like Remove device or Manage.
- Click Manage, then pick Printer properties. This opens a small window with several tabs.
Rename the Printer in Properties
- In the Printer properties window, find the Name field (usually on the first tab).
- Type the new name. Something clear and straightforward helps, especially if multiple users access this machine.
- Hit OK to save.
Be aware, sometimes Windows doesn’t immediately refresh all references to the printer, so restarting or toggling off/on the device can help make sure the name update shows everywhere. Also, if Windows doesn’t allow you to change the name here—because of permissions or driver issues—that might mean you need admin rights, or you might have to perform the change via the traditional Control Panel method.
Method 2: Using Control Panel (Sometimes Gives Better Results)
Another way is through the classic Control Panel, especially if Windows refuses to update the name via Settings. This can be a bit more consistent for some printers, especially older models or shared network ones.
- Open Control Panel from the Start menu (search for it).
- Go to Hardware and Sound > Devices and Printers.
- Find your printer, right-click and select Printer Properties.
- In the General tab, you can rename the printer’s name box.
- Click Apply and OK.
This method sometimes sticks better, especially for shared printers networked via a server, but it can be a bit more cumbersome.
Other Tips: Keep Your Printer Names Clear and Handy
- Use something descriptive—like “Main Office Color Printer” or “Garage2nd Floor Printer”.
- If it’s shared, make the name understandable for everyone who’ll see it.
- Avoid tricky characters or emojis, Windows can be a little fussy about those in device names.
- Test print after renaming, just to make sure it propagates correctly and you haven’t broken anything.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rename a printer without admin rights?
Usually nope, you need admin privileges for these changes. Windows locks down these settings for system integrity.
What if the name I set doesn’t stick or updates show the old name?
Sometimes, Windows gets a bit stubborn. Try restarting your PC or disconnecting and reconnecting the printer. On some setups, a driver update or removing and re-adding the device might help.
Does renaming change the printer’s configuration or default settings?
No, only the label you see in Windows. All the actual settings, IP configs, and driver options stay untouched.
Can I put emojis or special characters in the name?
Technically, Windows doesn’t support emojis in device names very well, so sticking with plain text is safer. You might get weird display issues otherwise.
Made a typo or want to change it again? How?
No worries—just follow the same steps. It’s a quick fix if you realize the name isn’t quite right.
Summary
- Open Settings or Control Panel.
- Navigate to Printers & scanners or Devices and Printers.
- Select your printer and access properties.
- Type in a new name and save.
- Check if the name update is reflected everywhere you need it.
Wrap-up
All in all, changing a printer’s name in Windows 11 isn’t rocket science, but it’s surprising how sometimes it refuses to update immediately. If you’re managing multiple printers or just want things to look less random, this little tweak makes a difference. On some setups, you might have to try a couple of methods—Control Panel or Settings—to get it to stick. But overall, it’s a straightforward way to keep your digital workspace a little more organized. Fingers crossed this helps some folks get their printer labels straightened out — because honestly, Windows sometimes makes these tiny tasks way more complicated than they need to be.