How to Set Up a Printer on the Network

Set up the printer according to the directions. If it is a network compatible printer with either Ethernet or wireless capabilities, find a place where it is easily accessible for users and is able to be connected to the network.
Connect the printer to either the network (Ethernet or wirelessly). If it's an Ethernet printer, attach an Ethernet cable to the printer, and the other to a jack that is connected to the network. Alternately, you can connect the Ethernet cable directly to a hub or router.
Connect wirelessly by configuring your printer's settings on the front panel of your wireless printer. You will need to configure it to accept the settings from the network, namely the IP address, subnet and router number. If your network requires all nodes to have static IP addresses, you will have to enter that. These numbers can be found in the network settings of all computers on the network. The IP address has to be unique, so set it accordingly.
Connect a non-network compatible printer to any networked computer via a USB cable. Open the control panel of the computer and set the preferences to allow for printer sharing.
Install the drivers for the printer on every computer on the network that plans on using it. You can either use the original CD, or download the drivers from the printer manufacturer's Website.
Check each of the computers on the network to ensure they can see the printer. For Windows users, open the Control Panel and select Printers. Mac users can see the printer by opening System Preferences and selecting Print & Fax.