Connection issue with the printer on the network.
Connection issue with the printer on the network.
I immediately think that what I need might not be feasible, but perhaps someone can help. My home is a compact apartment with just one Ethernet connection from the wall into my room. That cable links to a standard gigabit switch. On the switch, my main PC is connected and another cable goes out of my room to the Wi-Fi router (Netgear JNR3210). Since I don’t have room for a printer in my space—my Canon MF226dn is in the living room—I connect it via Ethernet to the router. My issue is whether I can print from my main PC through the switch or if I need to connect directly to the Wi-Fi router. Windows seems unable to locate the printer at all, even when using its IP address.
It seems the cable is delivering just one IP address, which your PC is using. Connect the cable to a router, then link both devices to it via a switch if necessary.
I believe the OP's setup involves a modem, router, and switch. Even without a modem, the router remains connected and should assign the printer a distinct IP address while enabling communication.
The main cable connects to a switch that distributes internet to your PC and the Wi-Fi router. Before the main cable, there are switches—likely managing the shared internet for seven apartments. The printer uses its own IP address, so it probably stays consistent.
I attempted but couldn't locate it. As mentioned, the main cable connects to a switch that supplies internet to your PC and the Wi-Fi router. The printer is linked to the router, meaning it isn't directly tied to the switch.
Imagine the network arrangement as shown: the modem connects to the ONT or similar device at the top, then the internet line runs through the system, leading to the router.
That's why I mentioned at the start it could be impossible. I switched first, then connected the modem, which goes against what you drew. The issue is the main cable is too short, so I had to use the switch. I could have used a router, but it's hidden on a small nightstand above my PC, making the Wi-Fi signal weak there.
You can use female-to-female connectors to link cables together for a small fee or two.