×

5 Simple Methods to Rename Your Printer in Windows 11

2024/04/03
PC Repair

Key Notes

  • Multiple methods exist to rename a printer including Settings, Print Management, Command Prompt, and PowerShell.
  • Ensure your printer is online before proceeding with the steps.
  • The option to rename printers via Control Panel has been removed in favor of using the Settings app.

Mastering Printer Renaming in Windows 11: A Complete Guide

Renaming a printer in Windows 11 can streamline your workflow. Here’s a detailed guide covering various methods to achieve this easily.

With the introduction of Windows 11, managing your devices has become more user-friendly, although some traditional methods, like the Control Panel, have been phased out. This guide walks you through five different methods of renaming a printer, particularly focusing on features introduced in versions 23H2 and 24H2.

Whether you’re aiming to simplify your printer’s name for easier identification in a crowded network or just want to customize it for sharing, Windows 11 provides straightforward solutions through the Settings app, Print Management, Command Prompt, or PowerShell. Let’s dive into these methods!

How to Rename Your Printer in Windows 11

In Windows 11, there are multiple methods to change your printer settings, particularly its name. Below are detailed instructions for five approaches.

Before you start, ensure that your printer is connected and online. Proceed with the renaming methods as outlined.

Step 1: Rename from Settings on Version 23H2

To change the printer name on Windows 11 23H2 and older, follow these steps:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Navigate to Bluetooth & devices.
  3. Select the Printers & scanners page.
  4. Choose the relevant printer.
  5. Click on Printer properties.
  6. In the properties window, confirm the new printer name.
  7. Click OK to apply, followed by Apply to finalize your changes.

Pro Tip: Be aware that device properties are no longer accessible through the Control Panel; these settings are now exclusively in the Settings app.

Step 2: Rename from Settings on Version 24H2

To rename your printer from the Settings in Windows 11 24H2, follow these steps:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Select Bluetooth & devices.
  3. Navigate to the Printers & scanners section.
  4. Choose the desired printer.
  5. Click on Additional printer settings.
  6. Click the Rename button to modify your printer name.
  7. Confirm the new printer name and click Save.

Note: The “Rename your printer” option is exclusive to Windows 11 24H2 and higher. You can check your Windows version through the system settings.

Step 3: Rename from Print Management

To assign a different name to your printer via the Print Management console, utilize these steps:

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Type Print Management into the search bar and press Enter.
  3. Select All Printers from the left sidebar.
  4. Right-click the printer you wish to rename and select Rename.
  5. Enter the new name and press Enter to finalize.

Pro Tip: This method is only available on Windows 11 Pro; Home edition users will not have access to the Print Management console.

Step 4: Rename from Command Prompt

To rename your printer via Command Prompt, follow these steps:

  1. Open Start.
  2. Search for and open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  3. Type the following command and press Enter :

    4. cscript %WINDIR%\System32\Printing_Admin_Scripts\en-US\prncnfg.vbs -x -p "CURRENT-NAME" -z "NEW-NAME"

    Replace “CURRENT-NAME” and “NEW-NAME” with the actual names of your printer.

This command effectively updates the printer’s name across the entire system, making changes globally.

Step 5: Rename from PowerShell

To change the printer name using PowerShell, follow these instructions:

  1. Open Start.
  2. Search for PowerShell and run it as an administrator.
  3. Execute this command to view installed printers:

    4. Get-Printer | Select-Object -Property Name, DriverName

  4. Rename using the following command:

    5. Rename-Printer -Name "CURRENT-NAME" -NewName "NEW-NAME"

    Ensure to replace the placeholder names with your old and desired new printer names.

Pro Tip: Running Command Prompt or PowerShell as an administrator is crucial for these commands to work correctly.

Additional Tips

  • Verify your printer connection is active before renaming.
  • Utilize descriptive names for easier identification, especially in shared environments.
  • If you encounter issues, try restarting your computer or printer.

Summary

This guide explored multiple ways to rename a printer in Windows 11, covering methods from the Settings app, Print Management, Command Prompt, and PowerShell. Each method tailored for versions 23H2 and 24H2 presents straightforward instructions, enhancing device management for both personal and professional users.

Conclusion

Renaming a printer is a simple yet impactful way to improve your printing experience in Windows 11. Leverage the method that best suits your requirements, and ensure your printer’s name is user-friendly for everyone in your network.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I rename my printer without administrator rights?

No, administrator rights are required to rename a printer in Windows 11.

Is it possible to rename a shared printer on a network?

Yes, you can rename a shared printer. Just ensure that you have administrative privileges on the network.

PC Repair