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If you’re looking for more wireless details, you can find answers to other networking questions here:
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Introduction |
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Connect your printer to the quickest network solution with ease, and find HP printers that offer built-in Ethernet capability.
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See the benefits of Ethernet printing |
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| Look for a port like this on your computer and/or printer to see if they are Ethernet-network-ready. Notice that the Ethernet port is wider than the phone-sized fax ports on the bottom. |
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The least expensive networking solution
The cost of equipment is generally lower for printers that connect via Ethernet alone than those that have wireless technology.
Similarly, Ethernet routers (which connect the home or office network to the Internet) are less expensive to purchase than wireless routers.
In an office environment with cables already installed, networking a large number of computers and printers is a snap.
Fastest
Most newer Ethernet technology is Fast Ethernet (transmitting approximately 100 Mbits per second—as opposed to 54 Mbits per second for Wi-Fi), but Ethernet technologies are emerging that are even faster (such as Gigabit Ethernet).
The most reliable
When you’re relying on an Ethernet connection, there are fewer network interruptions and less potential for interference than there can be with wireless.
A great choice for business
Because of the factors mentioned above, Ethernet networking remains the most popular choice for business. In fact, HP’s trusted LaserJet printers offer built-in Ethernet as their exclusive networking method.
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What you’ll need to get started |
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| The orange part of this picture is the CAT5e cable; the part at the end that resembles a phone jack is the RJ-45 connector. |
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Network
A network with a broadband router, switch, or hub.
Computer
Plug the computer into to the network using a Cat5 or Cat5e cable with RJ-45 connectors at the ends.
(The cable type describes the inner twists of the wiring within the cable housing; the connector is the part at the end that has 8 pins—or connectors—rather than the 2-6 that a phone cable has. You can ask for these cables at any electronics or computer store.)
Printer
You’ll need one with built-in Ethernet networking capability. Find an HP printer with built-in Ethernet.
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Connect your printer to a computer on your Ethernet network |
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These instructions are for connecting your printer to a computer running Windows Vista.
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| 1. On your computer, open the Control Panel. Select Hardware and Sound on the toolbar. |
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| 2. Select Add a printer under Printers. The Add a Printer Wizard will appear. |
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| 3. Select Add a network, wireless or Bluetooth printer. A list of available printers will appear. Select the printer you are trying to connect to the network. |
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4. Install the printer driver on your computer when prompted and the Wizard will guide you through the rest.
You can repeat this process with as many computers on the network as you want to share a single printer.
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Find an HP printer with built-in Ethernet |
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Get business speed and reliability with built-in Fast Ethernet. Several computers can share this printer that can handle up to 25,000 pages/month.
$299.99
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Get color printing, scanning, copying, and faxing to take care of all of your home and home business needs.
$149.99
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For a home office, small business, and more, enjoy the high quality color and automatic two-sided printing of this Ethernet-ready workhorse.
$299.99
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With JetDirect print servers, you build your own network for sharing printers. With some models you can even network printers and computers via USB.
Prices vary
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Printable version
