Wi-Fi printers are printers that have a Wi-Fi wireless network connection, allowing you to share the printer with any computer connected to the local network. The main advantages of Wi-Fi printers are the absence of cables, the flexibility to locate them, their independent operation of a specific PC and being able to print from any computer on the local network, having as their only disadvantages those associated with the stability and security of Wi-Fi wireless networks.
Characteristics
Wi-Fi wireless networks have revolutionized the technology of homes and offices thanks to the fact that they allow sharing the Internet connection with the rest of the equipment connected to the local network. But the Wi-Fi connection is not only used to connect to the Internet, it is also used by some devices, such as Wi-Fi printers, to communicate with computers so that you can control the device remotely without using wired connections.
This is the case of Wi-Fi printers, which connect to the Wi-Fi wireless network so that from any computer on the local network you can send a document printed.
Let's see the main advantages of Wi-Fi printers:
It can be printed from any computer connected to the local network. Since the printer has a Wi-Fi wireless connection, it does not need a wired connection, which offers great flexibility when deciding its location. Being a network printer, it does not need to be connected to a specific computer, so it is not necessary to have a certain computer turned on for the printer to work. Wi-Fi printers generally also have a USB connector and Ethernet wired network connectivity.Regarding the disadvantages of Wi-Fi printers we can mention:
For Wi-Fi printers to show adequate performance, the stability of the Wi-Fi connection is essential, so we will pay special attention to the printer being located at a point within the radius of action of the Wi-Fi network with good coverage. In any Wi-Fi connection, due to the fact of not being physically connected, there is a risk of unwanted access, so we will carefully configure the security and encryption options.Installation
Wi-Fi printers, like any other peripheral, need an installation process before they can be used:
Location: Wi-Fi printers must be located within the coverage radius of the Wi-Fi network, which is usually around 100 m depending on the conditions and the type of antenna used. Printer settings: Wi-Fi printers are installed as one more client on the wireless network. In some models the configuration can be done from the LCD screen of the printer itself, while in others to perform the initial configuration it is necessary to physically connect it to a computer via USB. Computer settings: Wi-Fi printers are configured on the computer like any network printer, then installing the drivers.Source: Wi-Fi Printers
