Printers and multifunction devices: setup, drivers, duplex, orientation, tray settings, network and cloud printing, secure print

Printers generate a surprising share of help desk calls. A multifunction device (MFD), also called a multifunction printer, combines printing, scanning, copying and often faxing in one unit. Setting one up correctly the first time, with the right driver, sensible defaults and basic security, avoids most of the problems users would otherwise report. Setup begins with unpacking: remove all packing tape, foam and shipping locks, install the toner or ink, load paper and connect power. Place the device on a stable surface with good ventilation, near the users who need it. Then connect it. USB links it to one computer. Wired Ethernet or Wi-Fi makes it available on the network; give network printers a static IP address or a DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) reservation so computers can always find them. Print a configuration page from the control panel to confirm the IP address, firmware version and installed options.