9 Things to Know About Wireless Printers Before You Buy

Here are the features, capabilities, and concerns you should consider before making a purchase

Although paper use around the world is decreasing, one thing remains constant: sometimes you just have to print something out. Even in today’s hyper-connected world, some forms need to be printed on paper and some documents need to be signed in person. Sometimes, it’s just more convenient to have a hard copy.

A wireless printer can help without the hassle of needing a dedicated network. But what are some other pros and cons of a wireless printer? Before you introduce a new device to your office, let’s look at the benefits and some of the downsides of having a wireless printer.

Need more information about printer features? Check out our comprehensive guide, A Buyer’s Guide to Printer Types.

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Wireless printer basics

A wireless printer is a great addition to any workspace. Without the need for costly network infrastructure, a wireless printer can be added to any office set-up and provide printing services for multiple workstations or users.

1. Wireless vs wired

A wireless printer connects to devices without the need for cables or wires. This makes them easier to set-up, and cheaper, since you will not have to pay for the wires or hire someone to install them.

2. Easy to connect

Connecting to a wireless printer can be as simple as connecting to WiFi. Ensure your computer and the printer are both on the same wireless network, and the printer should show up clearly and allow you to connect.

3. No dedicated computer required

The best part of using a wireless printer is eliminating the need to connect to its own dedicated computer to function. This means you can use the printer without a separate computer having to be connected and turned on. This makes them great for workspaces where people use laptops or mobile devices.

4. Wireless printer capabilities

Wireless printers come in all shapes and sizes, from compact wireless printers, to full-sized office workhorses, to wireless all-in-one printers. Many all-in-one printers feature performance and capabilities that match those of their wired counterparts.

Whether wired or not, you’ll need a printer with adequate speed and daily output. This means they print quickly enough and can handle your workload. Wireless printers like the RICOH C125 P can print as many as 26 ppm, with a capacity of 750 pages including the standard and optional trays.

Another factor to consider is resolution. Resolution is measured in dots per inch (dpi) and refers to the maximum number of dots of ink a printer deposits in a square inch of a page. The higher the resolution, the better your prints will look.

Many laser printers have a 1,200 x 1,200 dpi max print resolution, which is sufficient for most office uses and produces clean, precise text. With this resolution, you can print publication-quality documents like brochures or handouts with crisp, clear images and bright colors. That extra resolution can add crispness and clarity to your content so it has the impact you desire.

Did You Know?:The RICOH C125 P can print up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) and do so wirelessly. Click here to learn more.

5. Great for businesses of all sizes

Not every space is right for wires, but almost any space could be right for a wireless printer. Wireless printers can be placed out of the way, on an unused desk, or even in a closet and still be accessed by everyone on your team.

Better still, whether you’re a 2-person team or a 200-person office, a wireless printer (or three) can meet your needs without the need to string cables across your office. This makes them a useful addition to office spaces where running cables could look out of place, be costly, or present an unsightly tripping hazard.

6. Print from multiple devices

With a wireless printer, it’s possible to print from multiple separate devices. Whether you’re printing from a laptop at your desk or a mobile device in the break room, a wireless printer will accept jobs and print them as easily as a wired model. Just connect to the printer wirelessly and print away.

7. Print from anywhere

You can also print from anywhere within the wireless range. Gone are the days when you had to walk your laptop to your desk to connect to your computer to print or send a file to a separate computer. With wireless printing, you can print from a meeting room or hallway and find your printouts conveniently waiting for you at the printer.

Did You Know?:The RICOH C125 MF printer offers copy, scan, and fax capability in addition to printing. Click here to learn more.

8. Print from mobile devices

While printing from a mobile device used to be a complicated affair, the technology has dramatically improved in recent years. This makes printing to a wireless printer from a mobile device almost as simple as connecting to a printer by WiFi.

Make sure that your printer is compatible with AirPrint®, or Google Cloud Print, like the RICOH P C600 Color Laser Printer, and that both devices are on the same WiFi network. Printing from your mobile device should then be as simple as a button press.

Using technologies like Apple’s AirPrint®, Google’s Cloud Print, or the Ricoh Smart Device Connector, you can connect to a wireless printer. Apple devices using version 4.2 or later of iOS are enabled with AirPrint®. This allows you to print from any mobile device without having to install printer drivers. Android devices using Google Cloud Print function in much the same way; simply install the Cloud Print app and access the Google Docs app on your Android device. You can then print any document you want.

9. Wireless printer security

Are wireless printers less secure? It depends on the security of your network.

While a wired printer requires a physical connection to your network to be able to print, a wireless printer can in theory, connect to an unsecured network by anyone within wireless range. This makes it possible for malicious actors to gain access to your printer or to infect it with malware.

The reality, though, is if your network is secure, your printer likely will be as well. You can help ensure your printer is secure by following these simple steps:

  • Change the default login information: Your printer will come with a default login and password. These logins and passwords can be the same for many printers or can be easily guessed by hackers with master lists of passwords. You will want to change these credentials and be sure to use a strong password.
  • Update your firmware: Your printer runs on software called “firmware” that’s built into the components of the device. Like any software, it can sometimes have errors or security vulnerabilities. Ensuring your printer’s firmware is up-to-date will help protect it from common security risks. For instructions on how to update your printer’s firmware, visit your manufacturer’s website or read the documentation that came with your printer.
  • Secure your network: The more secure your network, the more secure your printer. Using strong security and a strong password on your wireless network will make it harder to access any device including your printer. And enabling a firewall will not only help make your network secure but also provide you with visibility into who is accessing devices on your network.
  • Unplug it when you’re not using it: Unplugging your wireless printer at the end of the day will physically remove it from your network, ensuring that no one will be able to access it who isn’t supposed to. Anyone who needs it can plug it back in, but this requires they be in the same room and likely have permission.

Our recommendation: RICOH C125 MF Color Laser Printer

The RICOH C125 MF color laser printer offers business quality prints with a footprint that will fit into any office space. It features easy-change toner and color duplex printing, as well as 4-in-1 fax/copy/print/scan funtionality. Its clear 4.3-inch touch screen makes set-up easy, and its WiFi, USB, and ethernet connectivity make it perfect no matter how you want to connect.

Note: Information and external links are provided for your convenience and for educational purposes only, and shall not be construed, or relied upon, as legal or financial advice. PFU America, Inc. makes no representations about the contents, features, or specifications on such third-party sites, software, and/or offerings (collectively “Third-Party Offerings”) and shall not be responsible for any loss or damage that may arise from your use of such Third-Party Offerings. Please consult with a licensed professional regarding your specific situation as regulations may be subject to change.