6 best computer networking print servers
A computer networking print server, commonly known as a print server, is a hardware or software device that facilitates the sharing of printers over a network. These devices play a crucial role in enabling multiple users or devices to print documents and other materials on a shared printer, thus improving efficiency and convenience in a networked environment. Here are some key points about computer networking print servers:
Print Server Types:
- Hardware Print Servers: These are standalone devices that connect to the network and one or more printers. They often have multiple ports to support multiple printers and various connectivity options (e.g., Ethernet, Wi-Fi, USB).
- Software Print Servers: Some operating systems, like Windows and Linux, include built-in print server capabilities. They allow a computer to act as a print server, sharing its locally connected printers with other devices on the network.
Print Server Benefits:
- Printer Sharing: Print servers enable multiple users and devices, such as computers and mobile devices, to access and print to the same printer without physically connecting to it.
- Centralized Management: They provide a centralized point for managing and configuring printers, reducing the administrative overhead of configuring each device individually.
- Driver Compatibility: Print servers often manage driver compatibility, ensuring that users on various operating systems can print to the same printer without driver conflicts.
- Queue Management: Print jobs can be queued and prioritized, helping to manage the order in which print requests are processed.
- Security: Print servers can offer security features like user authentication, access control, and encryption to protect sensitive documents.
Connectivity Options:
- Ethernet: Many hardware print servers connect to the network using Ethernet cables, making them suitable for wired network environments.
- Wireless (Wi-Fi): Some print servers support Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing wireless devices to print without physical network cables.
- USB: Some hardware print servers connect to printers via USB, which can be useful for printers with USB interfaces but no built-in network capabilities.
Compatibility:
- Print servers are designed to work with a wide range of printers, including inkjet, laser, and multifunction printers.However, it's essential to verify compatibility with your specific printer model.
Installation and Configuration:
- Setting up a print server typically involves connecting it to the network, installing any necessary drivers or software on connected devices, and configuring the printer settings through a web-based interface or dedicated software.
Print Protocols:
- Print servers use standard network print protocols such as Internet Printing Protocol (IPP), Line Printer Daemon (LPD), or Windows Print Services (SMB) to enable communication between devices and printers.
Scalability:
- Print servers can be a scalable solution, allowing you to add more printers or expand your network as needed.
Cost-Efficiency:
- Implementing print servers can lead to cost savings by reducing the need for multiple dedicated printers and streamlining print management.
In summary, computer networking print servers are valuable tools for organizations and networks that need to efficiently share printers among multiple users and devices. They offer printer sharing, centralized management, and enhanced security, making printing in networked environments more convenient and productive.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best computer networking print servers on the marketProduct description
Requirements: -Windows 10, Windows 8. 1, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista , Windows XP -Mac OS 9. 22 or later-Unix/Linux-Printer with USB connection-DHCP server on the network Note 1: For Google Cloud Print via Chrome, please use firmware version 9. 09Note 2: Only serial number after OU79USZ1B00001 can be upgraded to firmware to 9. 09. Please check with IOGEAR support team for any questions.
From the Manufacturer
- Easily connects USB 2;0 1;1 printer to a network, allows multiple computers to share 1 USB printer on the network with the included Cat 5 cable
- Print from any computer on the network or from across the Internet, USB cable and Ethernet cable used for connection
- 10Baset-t 100baset-t auto-sensing Ethernet Port; Please refer the user guide before use
- Supports DHCP client and multiple network protocols and supports Telnet and web management software
- Backed by IOGEAR's 3-year and free lifetime U;S based technical support, Note : Refer to the PDF attached below in Technical Specification for manual and Troubleshooting steps
User questions & answers
Question: | Will this work with an iPad |
Answer: | I don't know. I don't think I would put them in the dishwasher. We are only using them for my daughters wedding next week. |
Question: | The device works with hp laser jet pro cm 1415 fn color mfp |
Answer: | See this link! https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B01H14UFXO/ref=olp_page_next?ie=UTF8&f_new=true&startIndex=10 Purchase the serving set from us, CouplesOnCakes, for $27.88. Once you've ordered, please contact us with your engraving information. Thanks! Brian CouplesOnCakes |
Question: | Is it compatible with DYMO label printers |
Answer: | Yes, I believe this will work for you. I got my ruler out & measured it & it measures 11 & 14/16ths. Just 2 ruler tick marks (my ruler is in 16ths) before 12". I hope this helps! |
Question: | has anyone had any trouble connecting to a router, and does it work great from router or does your router fry |
Answer: | I haven't run into that problem but my best guess would be that it does keep ants out. The 2 snaps hold the rim of the cover securely in a groove around the bottom & will hold even the heaviest cake, but it isn't air tight so I couldn't guarantee that the ants can't get in (but they'd have to be very tiny). |
Product features
USB 2.0 Print Server, 1-Port (TAA Compliance)
IOGEAR's palm sized 1-port USB 2.0 Print Server allows any networked computer to share a USB printer. It complies with USB 2.0 specifications (backward compatible with USB 1.1 spec.), and provides users with an auto-sensing Ethernet port that works with either 10Base-T or 100Base-T networks. Supports multiple protocols and multiple operating systems, and it integrates Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) print server to allow users to print from any computer over a LAN/WAN or the Internet by specifying the device's URL.
The built-in web management feature provides more convenience by allowing the user to configure, monitor and even reset the print server via a web browser. Eliminates the need to place the printer right next to the computer. Print jobs can be sent to a printer in another country just as easily as to a printer in the same office.
Device is not compatible with Multi-Functional Printers.
- Printer compatibility list available on IOGEAR website
Requirments
- Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista , Windows XP
- Mac OS* X 10.3.9+
- Unix/Linux
- Printer with USB connection
- DHCP server on the network
Package Content
- 1 x 1-Port USB 2.0 Print Server
- 1 x CAT5 Patch Cable
- 1 x Power Adapter
- 1 x Installation CD
- 1 x User Manual
- 1 x Registration Card
Product description
Features:
Multiple computer sharing: It can share multiple computers, is compatible with more than 1500 kinds of printers, and supports automatic configuration of computer IP and server IP without manual input of IP. Support OTA online upgrade firmware. Let ordinary LPT, USB printer support network printing function. Strong compatibility: Supports most types of lasers, inkjet, needle and other types of printers on the market, and is constantly increasing. Full support for Windows XP/7/8/10/Vista, MAC OS and other common systems. Ultra-low power consumption: Supports compatibility diagnostics, enabling incompatible printers to be quickly supported. Support for queues: Support for automatic queue printing without software. Hi-Speed USB 2.0: USB 2.0 provides a 480 Mbps transfer rate.
Specification:
Model: KP-U101
USB port: 1 USB2.0 high speed interface
Housing: ABS housing
Network port: 10/100Mbps adaptive
Power: USB 5V 0.5A
Network environment: support wired/wireless routers, switches
Power consumption: 5W
Lined printing: support automatic line printing
Printing Protocol: TCP/IP RAW
Cross-network segment: not supported
Support function: support print sharing, does not support fax, scan sharing
Printer type: USB, network printers such as laser, inkjet, needle-type, thermal, etc.
Size: approx. 6.6 * 5.2 * 2.6cm / 2.6 * 2.05 * 1.02in
Package Weight: 122g
Package list:
1 * Print Server
1 * Plug (US standard)
1 * Data Cable
- ★—Multiple Computer Sharing—★ It can share multiple computers, is compatible with more than 1500 kinds of printers, and supports automatic configuration of computer IP and server IP without manual input of IP
- ★—Support OTA Online Upgrade Firmware—★ Computer networking print servers support OTA online upgrade firmware,and let ordinary LPT, USB printer support network printing function
- ★—Strong Compatibility—★ Wireless printer server supports most types of lasers, inkjet, needle and other types of printers on the market, and is constantly increasing
- ★—Ultra-Llow Power Consumption—★Supports compatibility diagnostics, enabling incompatible printers to be quickly supported.Full support for Windows XP/7/8/10/Vista, MAC OS and other common systems
- ★—Support for Queues—★ Print server supports for automatic queue printing without software.Hi-Speed USB 2.0: USB 2.0 provides a 480 Mbps transfer rate
User questions & answers
Question: | Do you have a model number for this product |
Answer: | Just an FYI to readers - To clarify what they mean by True RMS. True RMS, VRMS, ARMS and WRMS is the RMS measure of both the AC + DC components, it's integration of the area under the curve. This meter measures VACrms and AACrms, so it separates the DC component. It should state TRUE AC RMS, but like most meter manufacturers, they don't. There's a lot of misunderstanding on this thanks to marketing in companies. Take a look at a Fluke 187 or 189 where they actually measure TRUE RMS, but on the meter they call it AC+DC (in Blue). Most people are fine with this, since they typically measure line voltage or clean DC (battery or SMPS supplied). However, measure a DC source with high ripple current and you will not get a real measure, such as in automotive battery chargers that use a linear charger (large transformer based, not SMPS). Knowing the True RMS allows you to properly design for things such as thermal, efficiency and safety (fuses, breakers, thermal cutoffs, etc..) and to prevent over charging or over powering a battery or device. Class 2 devices, as those that fall under UL1310, have to comply to VRMS up to 2kHz for both indoor and outdoor ratings. Landscape lighting, LV pool lighting, USB 3.x Power Port also must comply. The reason for this in LV applications is because of the breakdown voltage of the skin. How to tell, if the AC symbol on the display only has a tilde ~ it's ACrms. If it has both the tilde ~ and a straight line – above it, its RMS. Some meters (Fluke 187, 189, 287 & 289) use the DC for both DC and RMS, so it will have both if the second function feature is RMS. The Dashed straight line on the flukes means it can also properly measure pulsed DC. |
Question: | Do you have a replacement pusher for zyliss mandoline |
Answer: | I think so, 600uF capacitance can be tested. |
Question: | Can you change the blade on this thing and if so, how and how often |
Answer: | Yes, it can measure AC current. |
Product description
This palm sized 1-port USB 2.0 Print Server allows any networked computer to share a USB printer. It complies with USB 2.0 specifications (backward compatible with USB 1.1 spec.) and provides users with an auto-sensing Ethernet port that works with either 10Base-T or 100Base-T networks. This unit also supports multiple protocols and multiple operating systems The built-in web management feature provides more convenience by allowing the user to configure monitor and even reset the print server via a web browser. This eliminates the need to place the printer right next to the computer. Print jobs can be sent to a printer in another country just as easily as to a printer in the same office. Why bother sending a degraded fax image while you can print an original at the destination? Features Easily connect your USB printer to a network Allows multiple computers to share one USB printer on the network Print from any computer on your network Supports DHCP Client and multiple network protocols 10Base-T / 100Base-T auto-sensing Supports Telnet and Web Management software NOTE: While the print functions on a compatible Multi-function printer may work other functions such as scanning may not. Drivers and Manual:
- This palm sized 1-port USB 2.0 Print Server allows any networked computer to share a USB printer
- Provides users with an auto-sensing Ethernet port that works with either 10Base-T or 100Base-T networks
- This eliminates the need to place the printer right next to the computer
- Works with Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7 only
User questions & answers
Question: | Can i print to the usb printer from an ios device |
Answer: | /Duration -:-Loaded: 0%Stream Type LIVESeek to live, currently playing liveLIVERemaining Time -0:00 Playback Rate1xChaptersChaptersDescriptionsdescriptions off, selectedCaptionscaptions off, selectedAudio TrackFullscreenThis is a modal window. .noScriptDisplayLongText { display : none; } .noScriptNotDisplayExpander { display : none; } .noScriptDisplayLongText { display : block; } Hi Dear,if you detect AC/DC voltage or AC/DC current, you will not need to select function,you can detect directly with "AUTO" mode. |
Question: | Will this work as a printer server? I want to make my wired printer wireless |
Answer: | This meter has been upgraded a lot compared to Uni-T 210D 1. This meter has higher precision than Uni-T 210D (6000 counts vs 2000 counts), especially measure current with clamp, for example, when measure current approximately 2.5A, this meter display 2.493A, Uni-T 210D only display 2.49A 2. This meter added many functions: Live wire check, Low Impedance voltage test, measure microamps μA by terminals, etc. 3. This meter has many upgraded designs: Side probe holder design for easy test, Back clip design make it more portable, etc. |
Question: | Is the power adaptor 110V only or 110V to 220V? Does it support Win 8.1 Pro? Thanks |
Answer: | Yes, with the clamp, the tester can not only measure amps in DC, but also measure amps in AC, the maximum amps is 100 amps with 1mA resolution. |
Question: | will this work with a chromebook |
Answer: | In 6A range, resolution is 0.001A, the test range is 0.001A~6A. In 60A range, resolution is 0.01A, the test range is 0.01A~60A. In 100A range, resolution is 0.1A, the test range is 0.1A~100A. |
Product description
This 10/100Mbps Ethernet to USB 2.0 network print server makes it easy to share a USB printer with multiple users on your network (LAN). Reliable Network Printing This USB 2.0 10/100Mbps print server lets you share one USB printer with multiple users on your LAN instead of having separate printers for each workstation. You can use this printer adapter with many devices including a laptop, desktop computer or scanner if they’re sharing the network with the print server. With web-based management, you can set up and monitor the networking USB print server through a web browser, so you can place your printer at any convenient shared location. Easy to Use and Install Compact and lightweight, the Ethernet to network print server is easy to install with its straightforward installation wizards and remote web-based management. You simply use a USB cable to connect the print server to your printer’s USB port, then use an RJ45 networking cable to connect it to the rest of your network. You do not have to connect a computer directly to the print server if everything is connected to the LAN. Plus, it’s compatible with most standard USB printers and can be used with Mac or Windows operating systems, including Windows 10. Supports LPR Network Printing and Bonjour Print Services The printer server supports the Line Printer Remote (LPR) protocol which enables Internet printing. It also supports Bonjour Print Services, making it easier to find and configure printers on your network. This Ethernet to USB network print server is backed by a StarTech.com 2-year warranty and free lifetime technical support.
- NEW FIRMWARE UPDATE AVAILABLE: To enhance the performance of your 10/100Mbps networking USB print server we suggest downloading the latest version of the product firmware to improve stability in varied network environments.
- SHARE A PRINTER: Share a USB printer w/ multiple users over an Ethernet network. The print server has 10Base-T/100Base-TX auto-sensing to ensure a reliable connection, letting you print from any network computer, across the office or over the Internet.
- GREAT FOR ANY ENVIRONMENT: This USB print server adapter is the perfect printing solution. It's ideal for home or small office applications, and government and educational institutions that require shared printing capabilities.
- BROAD COMPATIBILITY: This USB to Ethernet print server is USB 2.0 compliant, and works w/ Mac & Windows, including Windows 10. The print adapter also supports LPR network printing and Bonjour Print Services to provide ultimate compatibility.
- PRINT FROM ANYWHERE: Print from any computer connected to the LAN. This print server doesn’t require a wired connection to a computer, however you must connect the server to your networking device (eg. router) w/ the included RJ45 network cable.
User questions & answers
Question: | Does this support raw (or jetdirect) printing over port |
Answer: | No, the PM1115P2 allows a Parallel printer to be shared among computers on a network. The Canon MF3010 uses USB to connect to a PC so we recommend using our PM1115U2 to connect this printer to a network. Matt, StarTech.com Support |
Question: | would this printer server work with an old usb brother printer/fax machine |
Answer: | PM1115P2 should work with most printers that use Parallel communication over a Centronics connector, but it hasn't been specifically tested for functionality with Zebra printers. Atha, StarTech.com Support |
Question: | Will this work on a pixma ts |
Answer: | Providing the ipad has an appropriate app as well as the drivers for your specific printer. The IOGEAR works great, you can set a static ip address. see the following link for some additional information: https://discussions.apple.com/message/18930908#18930908 |
Question: | Will this work with a vonets wifi bridge repeater |
Answer: | Hi, This is the best print server i have seen to date. Its very easy to install and has worked non-stop for me in multiple offices for years. I can't tell you 100% that it will work as the printer you have is a new model and its not listed in the "list of verified compatible printers". I am quite sure it will work irregardless of that as the list isn't a finite list - there could be 100s of other newer printers that are not listed that work. As a comparable datum, I use it on a new Oki laser-jet printer as well as on a large Canon photo copier. Both printers weren't listed but work. I would recommend this print server. good luck. |
Product features
Reliable, cost-efficient network printing
Enjoy cost-efficient network printing for multiple users. The USB 10/100 Mbps print server lets you share one USB printer with multiple users on your network, instead of having to buy separate printers for each individual workstation.
Place your shared printer in a convenient location
With web-based management, you can set up and monitor the printer server through a web browser, so you can place your printer at any convenient shared location - there’s no need to put your printer next to your computer. You can send print jobs to another user in your home or office, or even to a printer in another country.
Easy to use and install
Compact and lightweight, the print server is easy to install with its straightforward installation wizards and remote web-based management.
You simply use a USB cable to connect the print server to your printer’s USB port, then use an RJ45 networking cable to connect it to the rest of your network.
Product description
TP-Link TL-PS110U Single USB 2.0 Port Fast Ethernet Print Server
- Brand New in box. The product ships with all relevant accessories
User questions & answers
Question: | Does it work with hp smart-tank plus 651 wireless all-in-one ink-tank printer o any other multifunction printer?(can it be used for network scanning |
Answer: | Google Cloud Print service is run from a PC that has the Chrome Browser installed and has the cloud print option checked in options. I use it all the time, it will work. The service runs through your gmail account associated with a computer that is left on so that the Chrome Browser will send the print job to your printer queue. The browser does not need to be open for this service to work but you do have to have the option to run in the background checked in the browser options. |
Question: | Would this work with a dymo 4xl and a mac |
Answer: | This device plugs into an ethernet port on your router and your usb printer plugs into it. As long as the router it's plugged into is wireless also, all wired and wireless devices can locate and print from it. It works great for us. |
Question: | Does the ethernet port support the gigabit (1000mbit/s) protocol or the old 100mbit/s |
Answer: | Was not tried on the HP Laser jet 5. But for sure it wont work on the Datamax i class |
Question: | Can you plug a standard usb memory stick into it and use a network storage |
Answer: | It should, as it is a TCP/IP based interface, and it is driver independent, so you will need to setup your parallel printer with the local drivers (if needed) on your Mac, and just set the ip required for the print server to work. |
Product description
The X-MEDIA XM-PS110P print server allows you to take the computer out of the loop while setting up a printing network. All that is needed is to connect the XM-PS110P to a printer via the parallel port, connect the print server to your LAN, and you will be able to access your printer from any computer on the LAN.
- Compatible with up to 230 printer models on the market
- Supports multi-protocol and multi-OS, easy to set up in almost all network environments
- Supports POST (Power On Self Test) and E-mail Alert, to help identify printing problems as soon as possible
- Simple setup and management, very easy to operate
- *** NOTE *** PLEASE CHECK YOUR PRINTER MODEL IN APPLICATION GUIDE UNDER TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION OF PRODUCT INFORMATION FOR COMPATIBILITY BEFORE PURCHASING
User questions & answers
Question: | Will this work with an HP Laserjet |
Answer: | Four of the five previous responses ambiguously say “connect” without clear indication of which kind they mean (wired or wireless). So, I'll try to answer in more explicit terms. This is not a wireless device. (That is, your PC does not link to it directly via WiFi or Bluetooth.) It must be physically attached to your home or office network with an ethernet cable. Thus, it requires a local-area network (LAN). Unless you access the internet via a mobile-phone connection (or by tethering your PC to one), you probably already have such a network. Your network router (which might be built into your cable/DSL/fiber modem), or an ethernet hub connected to it, should have an available (i.e., unoccupied) ethernet port (for a "RJ-45"-style modular connector...it looks like a wide phone jack). If you have a WiFi-only router that has no ports for a wired LAN, you cannot use this print server. The connections are as follows: PC or mobile device >--WiFi (or ethernet cable)--> Network router >--ethernet cable--> Print Server >--USB cable--> LabelWriter (the label printer) The claim of providing “wireless printing” is only true if your PC or mobile already has wireless access to your network. |
Question: | Does this work with Apple computers |
Answer: | With what program did you expect to print Dymo labels from your iPhone? I'd be most interested since I've never found a way to do that to date. This print server works ONLY for the Dymo printers - and frankly, not too very well. In a small office, we wound up getting a second Dymo simply due to the unreliability and complexity of using this. |
Question: | Will this work with zebra z4mplus |
Answer: | The PM1115UW is officially currently only supported with Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10, Windows Server 2003, 2008 R2, 2012, 2016, 2019, Mac OS 10.x, 9.x, and Linux (LTS versions only). Atha, StarTech.com Support |
Question: | Is this compatible with Roland hybrid printers |
Answer: | I am not sure if it will work with the dymo lablewriter 450 turbo, but it does not want to work with Windows 10. |
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