Why Can't We Add USB or Network Printers in Windows Server 2022/2025?
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TechWhizKid42
We've been using a mix of Windows Servers 2019, 2022, and 2025, but recently noticed something odd: the option to add USB or network printers is missing from our 2022 and 2025 servers. I've attached a screenshot showing the difference with the printer settings (link to image). The 2022 server just attempts to load the feature, but I only see the option to add a printer from \SERVERNAME, without the dropdown for USB/Network or Work/School printers. I'm wondering if there's a setting we overlooked or if this feature is disabled by default?
Answers
You might want to try accessing the old-school control panel. Open the run command and type this: shell:::{A8A91A66-3A7D-4424-8D24-04E180695C7A}. It could give you access to the features you're missing.
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Have you tried clicking "Printer I want is not listed"? That could lead you to add the printer you're aiming for.
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Have you checked if the printmanagement.msc feature is enabled? It seems like it might be missing by default. Some packages could have been removed or disabled without you noticing. Just a thought!
ServerGuru01: I tried enabling that, but unfortunately, the options still don’t appear.
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TechWhizKid42: No luck there; it just takes me to a different window, not really what I'm looking for. I need to add a Cloud printer via 'work or school printer' option.