In Windows 11, managing printers can sometimes feel inconsistent because the system still uses a mix of the new Settings interface and the classic Control Panel. Finding your printer and adjusting preferences often requires switching between both, which can be confusing and time-consuming. This shortcut method provides a direct and reliable way to access your printer’s preferences without navigating through multiple menus or windows.

You can create a shortcut that opens the Printer Preferences dialog directly.

Steps:

  1. Find your printer’s exact name:
    Press Windows + R, type control printers, and press Enter.
    Note the exact name of your printer (for example, HP LaserJet Pro M404n).
  2. Create a new shortcut:
    Right-click on your desktop and choose New → Shortcut.
  3. Enter the command below:
    rundll32 printui.dll,PrintUIEntry /p /n "Your Printer Name"
    Replace "Your Printer Name" with your printer’s exact name.

    Example:
    rundll32 printui.dll,PrintUIEntry /p /n "HP LaserJet Pro M404n"
  4. Name your shortcut:
    Give it a clear name, such as Printer Preferences - HP, and click Finish.
  5. Open the shortcut:
    Double-click your new shortcut to open your printer’s Preferences window directly.