In this chapter, the final chapter for this part of the course, you’ll learn how to connect your Windows 10 computer to other devices. We’ll use the examples of a printer and a smartphone.
Add a Printer
One of the tasks that comes up time and time again at work is connecting company printers to users’ computers. Windows 10 takes all the hassle out of this task.
A printer counts as a peripheral device for your computer, so go to “Settings” then “Devices”. In this menu, you’ll be able to manage devices connected via Bluetooth or USB, as well as printers.
To add a printer, go to the “Printers & scanners” tab on the left.
In this menu, Windows 10 will automatically search for printers using the same network as the computer (whether these are using an Ethernet cable, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth).
Windows 10 works with most printers on the market. If your computer is up to date and your printer is modern, you will probably not have to install the printer’s drivers. Otherwise, you can simply install the drivers from the manufacturer's website or using the CD which came with your printer when you bought it.
If the printer you want to connect doesn’t show up automatically, click on “Add a printer or scanner”.
All of the connected printers will appear, you can then select your printer and click on “Add a device”.
I’ve gone through the steps to add a printer on Windows 10 in the video below, make sure you watch it before continuing!
Now we’ll look at how to sync your Windows 10 computer with a smartphone.
Sync Your Computer With a Smartphone
To sync with a smartphone, whether it be an Android or an iPhone, go to Settings and click on “Phone”. Then click on “Add a phone” and select your phone's operating system. Windows will show you on-screen instructions which, once followed, will allow you to sync your smartphone with your computer.
Once the app is launched and activated correctly on your smartphone, Windows will automatically sync your computer’s data with your smartphone.
See my video on how to set up the sync between Windows 10 and your smartphone. One more way Windows 10 makes things easier for you!
In the next part of the course, we’ll go deeper into Windows and become more comfortable with the tools used by IT technicians in Windows 10.
Your Turn!
🎯 Today's mission at CleanFuture: You have been given a company smartphone as a reward for your hard work at CleanFuture so far!
It is company policy to have the phone set up so it syncs data with your work computer to make sure you have access to the same data on both devices.
⚙️ The actions you need to take:
Use the Your Phone application in Windows 10 to sync the data between your phone and your computer.
✅ Double-check your work: You’ll know you’ve succeeded when the “Your Phone” screen in Windows 10 displays Notifications, Messages, Photos, and Calls that match with the Your Phone Companion app on your smartphone!
Let's Recap!
To add a printer, do the following: Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners > Add a printer or scanner > Select your printer > Add a device.
If you can’t see your printer, check that it is connected to the same network or via Bluetooth.
To add a phone, do the following: Settings > Phone > Select your Operating System > Install Microsoft Launcher on your phone.
Microsoft Launcher is a good way for your company’s staff to sync their computer with their smartphone.
You’re now familiar with the process of installing additional devices, such as printers, as well as syncing your smartphone with your desktop or laptop. Both of these are important skills to learn so make sure you have completed the “Your Turn!” exercise before moving on. Let’s check your understanding in a quiz, and then I’ll see you in Part 3!
