How to Set a Printer as Default on Windows
And why it sometimes changes on its own without you asking for it.
If you have several printers, Windows needs to know which one to use by default when you hit "Print" without manually choosing each time.
- Settings → Bluetooth & devices → "Printers & scanners".
- Select the printer you want to use by default.
- "Set as default".
Note: if you have "Let Windows manage my default printer" turned on (same screen, further up), Windows will automatically choose the last one you used on each network, instead of sticking to a fixed one — turn it off if you'd rather have full manual control.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my default printer change on its own?
You probably have the 'Let Windows manage my default printer' option turned on, which prioritises the last one used on each network. Turn it off to set a default manually and permanently.