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Resolved Question

Two questions regarding connecting computers to printer

Jul 4, 2017 7:44AM PDT

Can I connect my laptop to the printer via WiFi and my Desktop via USB cable? The Desktop does not have WiFi capability. If this is possible do I need to use the CD software that came with the Printer for both computers?
Using Windows 7 Home Premium
Using Epson XP 434 Small-in-one printer

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The ancient one has chosen the best answer to their question. View answer

Best Answer

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If Both Are Connected To The Same Router, Set Up A Network..
Jul 6, 2017 6:56AM PDT

There should be no need to connect directly to the printer using Wifi if both are connected to the same network. The laptop should connect to the network and the printer could be shared from the desktop so both can use the printer.

Just an option.

Hope this helps.

Grif

Post was last edited on July 6, 2017 7:24 PM PDT

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Thanks Grif
Jul 6, 2017 2:06PM PDT

I will try to figure out how to do that. Yes, all computers in the house work through the Verizon modem/router setup. As of this moment I did get the printer operational using the wireless option and using the USB Cable option for the set up. And that answered my question about having the printer connected via cable or wireless. The main computer works with the cable and via network without the cable. Haven't really tried very hard to get the upstairs laptop to work via the network. That will be my next chore. And being just south of 90 years of age, it takes me awhile to figure things out. If it weren't for CNET moderators like you and other participants, I would still be in the dark ages as far as computers.

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Not Hard To Do..
Jul 6, 2017 7:44PM PDT

First, make sure both desktop and laptop can "see" each other on the same network name. It's usually best to perform these steps from the SAME admin login on both computers. (Here, I create a special/separate admin login on all my network computers, just for this purpose.) After that, I start first with the desktop and creating a "workgroup" name from the Control Panel-System icon-Advanced System Properties (Or RIGHT click on "My Computer", choose "Properties" - Advanced System Properties), then click on the "Computer Name" tab, then the "change" button, then create a workgroup name of your own. Now do the same on the laptop and all other computers you want in the workgroup. Once that's done, be sure enable "File and Printer Sharing" on both computers.

Next, install the printer on the desktop using the printer software. Once that's done, "share" the printer from the desktop. Now install the shared NETWORK printer on the laptop by using "Add a Printer" procedures.

Hope this helps.

Grif

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Answer
Re: printers
Jul 4, 2017 8:01AM PDT

Most likely: yes and yes. Why not do what the installation and user manual say?

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RE: Most likely
Jul 5, 2017 6:55AM PDT

Sorry about be so remiss in my response but my wife whisked me away from my computer on this 4th of July day.
Here is some more information. There are 3 desktops and 3 laptops in this household. All 3 desktops get used on an almost daily basis but two of the laptops are just being held in "reserve" in case needed. All have Win 7 for an OS. The one laptop that is on the main floor gets used about 90% of the time and the desktops which are in the basement, the other 10%. The Epson printer is next to the main desktop. I also have a Konica-Minolta Magicolor Laser printer which is attach to all 3 desktops via USB cable and most of the printing is done on this. 95% of the use of the Epson is for scanning but I do use it occasionally for copying.
The CD installation and setup gives me the choice of Wireless connection (Add the printer to my existing network, or set up this computer to print over my network.) Or Direct USB connection ( Connect the printer directly to my computer with a USB cable. don't connect the cable until prompted.) If I select wireless connection I get these 2 choices: 1. using the printer buttons (Use the printer's control panel to connect to a wireless network.( (Which is a real pain in the neck). 2 Using temporary USB cable connection (Do not connect the USB cable to your computer until prompted.).
The 245 page manual does not indicate directly whether or not USB connection and WiFi connections can be installed at the same time. Here is what it does say: "If you have already connected your product to your computer using a USB connection, you can change to a Wi-Fi connection. 1. Disconnect the USB cable from your product. 2. Uninstall your product software. 3. Download and install your product software from the Epson website using the instructions on the Start Here sheet." I guess I will just have to play around with it for awhile.