Looking for the best wireless print server to free yourself from the hassle of tangled wires and cables? Say goodbye to running around to connect your printer and computer and hello to streamlined printing with a wireless print server! But what should you look for in a print server? Are there any standout features? Let’s dive in and explore some of the best wireless print servers on the market.
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One important feature to consider is compatibility. Make sure the server you choose is compatible with your printer and operating system to ensure smooth interaction. Another important aspect to consider is connection speed. This can make a significant difference in reducing printing time, especially if your office requires frequent printing. Don’t forget to check the range of the wireless signal and ensure it covers your entire workspace. By choosing the right wireless print server, you can simplify your printing experience and work more efficiently.
Introduction to Wireless Print Servers
Wireless print servers have revolutionized the way people print their documents. Gone are the days when you had to be tethered to a printer with a bulky cable. Today, you can print from anywhere in a room using wireless technology. Wireless print servers allow you to connect printers to your Wi-Fi network, making it accessible to all the devices connected to the network. With the wide array of options available in the market, choosing the best wireless print server can be a daunting task. In this article, we have compiled the top wireless print servers in the market to help you make an informed decision.
1. TP-Link TL-WPS510U
Features | Description |
|---|---|
Compatibility | Compatible with over 320 printer models |
Interface | USB 2.0 and Wireless 802.11b/g/n |
Approval | Microsoft WHQL certified |
Security | 64/128-bit WEP encryption and WPA/WPA2-PSK security |
The TP-Link TL-WPS510U is a feature-packed wireless print server that allows users to print documents from anywhere in the room. It is compatible with over 320 printer models, making it a versatile device. The print server supports USB 2.0 and wireless 802.11b/g/n interfaces, which ensure fast data transfer speeds. This device is also Microsoft WHQL certified, which guarantees compatibility with all Microsoft operating systems. The 64/128-bit WEP encryption and WPA/WPA2-PSK security protocols ensure secure printing, which is ideal in office environments. Overall, the TP-Link TL-WPS510U is a reliable wireless print server that delivers on its promises.
The TP-Link TL-WPS510U is also very easy to set up, and the user-friendly web interface ensures easy configuration. It provides an excellent range of features that are ideal for use in both home and office environments.
- Supports over 320 printer models
- USB 2.0 and Wireless 802.11b/g/n interfaces
- Microsoft WHQL certified
- 64/128-bit WEP encryption and WPA/WPA2-PSK security protocols
- Easy to set up
2. IOGEAR GPSU21 Print Server
Features | Description |
|---|---|
Compatibility | Compatible with most printers and multi-function printers |
Interface | USB 2.0 and Ethernet 10/100Mbps |
Approval | Microsoft WHQL certified |
Security | Supports 64/128-bit WEP, WPA, and WPA2 security protocols |
The IOGEAR GPSU21 is a reliable wireless print server that allows users to print from anywhere in the room. It is compatible with most printers and multi-function printers, making it a versatile option for users. The device supports USB 2.0 and Ethernet 10/100Mbps interfaces, which ensures fast data transfer speeds. It is Microsoft WHQL certified, which guarantees compatibility with all Microsoft operating systems. Moreover, the server supports 64/128-bit WEP, WPA, and WPA2 security protocols, making it ideal for use in office environments. The device is also very easy to set up, and the user-friendly web interface ensures easy configuration.
- Compatible with most printers and multi-function printers
- USB 2.0 and Ethernet 10/100Mbps interfaces
- Microsoft WHQL certified
- Supports 64/128-bit WEP, WPA, and WPA2 security protocols
- Easy to set up
3. StarTech PM1115UW Print Server
Features | Description |
|---|---|
Compatibility | Compatible with most printers and multi-function printers |
Interface | USB 2.0 and Wireless 802.11 b/g/n |
Approval | Microsoft WHQL certified |
Security | Supports 64/128-bit WEP, WPA, and WPA2 security protocols |
The StarTech PM1115UW is a high-performance wireless print server that offers fast printing speeds. It is compatible with most printers and multi-function printers, making it a versatile option for a wide range of users. The device supports USB 2.0 and wireless 802.11 b/g/n interfaces, which ensure fast data transfer speeds. Moreover, the device is Microsoft WHQL certified, which guarantees compatibility with all Microsoft operating systems. The print server supports 64/128-bit WEP, WPA, and WPA2 security protocols, making it ideal for use in office environments.
The StarTech PM1115UW comes with an easy-to-use web-based interface that makes configuration a breeze. It is easy to install, and the device can be up and running in minutes. Its compact design ensures that it does not take up much space, making it an ideal option for small offices.
- Compatible with most printers and multi-function printers
- USB 2.0 and wireless 802.11 b/g/n interfaces
- Microsoft WHQL certified
- Supports 64/128-bit WEP, WPA, and WPA2 security protocols
- Easy to set up
Conclusion
Wireless print servers offer a convenient way of printing documents from anywhere in the room. They eliminate the need for cables and make it possible for multiple users to share a single printer. Choosing the best wireless print server can be a daunting task, but with our top picks, you can be assured of reliable performance and ease of use. The TP-Link TL-WPS510U, IOGEAR GPSU21, and StarTech PM1115UW are some of the best wireless print servers available on the market. They offer an excellent range of features, making them ideal for use in home, small office, and enterprise environments.
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Top Considerations When Choosing a Wireless Print Server
Wireless printing has become a necessity nowadays, and with the advent of wireless print servers, it has become even more straightforward and convenient. However, with so many options available in the market, choosing the right wireless print server can be confusing. Here are some top considerations to keep in mind when selecting a wireless print server.
Compatibility
The compatibility of your wireless print server with your printer is a critical factor. Not all wireless print servers work with all printers. Therefore, before purchasing, make sure to check if the print server is compatible with your printer model. Lack of compatibility can lead to issues like low-quality prints, printing errors, and even damage to your printer.
Another compatibility concern is between the printer and your computer or mobile device. In case you have many devices, make sure that the print server you are buying is compatible with all of them. Ideally, it should work with Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems and various mobile platforms like iOS and Android.
Wi-Fi Connectivity
The Wi-Fi connectivity range of your print server is another crucial factor to consider. The print server needs to be within range of your Wi-Fi network to work effectively. A standard wireless print server should have a range of around 30 meters, which is ideal for most homes and small offices.
Additionally, look out for print servers that come with Wi-Fi boosters or antennas. These features can help increase the range of your wireless print server, ensuring reliable connectivity across your office or home. Some advanced wireless print servers can even support dual-band connectivity (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), making them able to handle more network traffic and provide faster print speeds.
USB Connectivity
While Wi-Fi connectivity is the primary way to connect your devices with your wireless print server, USB connectivity is also essential. A USB connection can help you troubleshoot issues if the Wi-Fi network goes down, or the printer firmware is being updated. It can also be useful in case your print server does not have wireless connectivity.
Most wireless print servers come with USB ports that allow you to connect your printer directly to the print server. However, it would be best if you checked whether the USB port is USB 2.0 or USB 3.0. USB 3.0 ports are faster than USB 2.0 and will provide you with better print speeds and performance.
Conclusion
Wireless print servers are an essential addition to any home or office, providing you with robust connectivity to your printer. When selecting a wireless print server, it’s essential to keep compatibility, Wi-Fi connectivity, and USB connectivity in mind. With these considerations in mind, you’ll undoubtedly find an ideal wireless print server that can meet your printing needs and provide you with convenience and flexibility.
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Top Picks for Best Wireless Print Servers
Wireless print servers are devices that connect printers to Wi-Fi networks, enabling multiple devices to access them wirelessly. They are an essential solution for shared offices, schools, or households with several devices that need to print documents. Three of the best wireless print servers available in the market today are the TP-Link TL-WPS510U, IOGEAR GPSU21, and HP Jetdirect 2900nw.
1. TP-Link TL-WPS510U
The TP-Link TL-WPS510U is an excellent wireless print server designed to connect printers wirelessly to a network. It has a USB port that supports multiple printers, including MFP printers, allowing multiple users to access them simultaneously. It supports various network protocols, including TCP/IP, NetBEUI, AppleTalk, LPR/LPD, IPP, and SMB. This feature makes it compatible with most operating systems, including Windows, Mac, and Linux. The TP-Link TL-WPS510U is compact and user-friendly, and it comes with easy-to-follow instructions for installation and setup.
The TP-Link TL-WPS510U supports WEP, WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK encryption, and IEEE 802.1X, ensuring that your network is secure from unauthorized access. It also supports web-based management, enabling you to access and control connected devices from anywhere. The device provides excellent compatibility and is ideal for most network scenarios, making it a top choice for shared office setups and households with several devices.
2. IOGEAR GPSU21
The IOGEAR GPSU21 is a premium wireless print server designed for businesses and homes with multiple devices. It supports both wired and wireless connections using a USB port and an Ethernet port, respectively. This device supports various network protocols, including TCP/IP, LPR/LPD, IPP, SMB, and RAW printing. The IOGEAR GPSU21 has an easy-to-use interface that allows for quick and easy installation and setup.
The IOGEAR GPSU21 is compatible with most printers, both inkjet, and laser, making it an ideal choice for most businesses or home office setups. It supports WEP, WPA2-PSK, and 802.1X encryption, ensuring that your network is secure from unauthorized access. It comes with a power adapter, an Ethernet cable, and easy-to-follow instructions for installation and setup. The IOGEAR GPSU21 is reliable and efficient, making it a top choice for businesses that require a robust wireless print server.
3. HP Jetdirect 2900nw
The HP Jetdirect 2900nw is a high-end wireless print server designed for large workgroups and businesses with advanced printing needs. It is compatible with most printers, both wired and wireless, and supports various network protocols, including IPv4/IPv6, HTTP/HTTPS, FTP, TFTP, and SNMPv1/v2c/v3. The HP Jetdirect 2900nw has a sleek design and is easy to install and set up. It supports both wireless and wired connections, and it comes with a power adapter and a USB cable.
The HP Jetdirect 2900nw supports advanced encryption protocols, including WPA2-PSK and 802.1X, ensuring that your network is secure from unauthorized access. The device also supports web-based management, enabling you to access and control connected devices from anywhere. It has a large memory capacity and a fast processor, making it a top choice for businesses with advanced printing needs.
Conclusion
Wireless print servers are essential devices for shared offices and households with multiple devices. The TP-Link TL-WPS510U, IOGEAR GPSU21, and HP Jetdirect 2900nw are excellent choices for wireless print servers, each with unique features and capabilities. The TP-Link TL-WPS510U is compact and user-friendly, the IOGEAR GPSU21 supports both wired and wireless connections, and the HP Jetdirect 2900nw is designed for large workgroups with advanced printing needs. Regardless of your needs, these three wireless print servers are sure to provide reliable, efficient, and secure printing solutions.
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