Setting up a network and print sharing

[Guest]

I have 1 desktop, 1 laptop and a printer that has ethernet, serial & USB
capability.
I run ADSL to my modem, then that is connected to a wireless router. From
the router I have my wireless laptop and desktop connected. I am trying to
set up a network printer and I thought I could plug the printer (using
ethernet) straight into the router and wam bam I have a network. However for
some reason I cannot get it to run. I have set up work groups which both
computers recognise. When I go to share printer I get an error saying,
printer not recognised please check cable.
My questions are:
*Is this the right setup?
*If the printer is connected to the desktop using serial, can I print from
laptop if desktop is turned of and printer is turned on?
*If I have a secure wireless router, will that affect printer if using
Ethernet?

I would appreciate any advice on this matter as it is starting to do my head
in.
Thanks to all.
Kind Regards
Frustraded Network Enthusiast

 

[Doug Sherman [MVP]]

If the printer is connected directly to the desktop, then you can share it;
but the laptop will not be able to use the printer unless the desktop is
running.

If instead the printer is connected by ethernet cable to the router, you do
not need to share it - as long as the printer is on either computer can
print to it. If you use ethernet, you want to configure your printer will a
static IP address. You will have to consult your manual to determine how to
do this. The IP address must be compatible with IP addresses used by your
computers - eg. 192.168.1.x subnet mask 255.255.255.0, and it must not
duplicate any existing addresses.

Once the printer has an appropriate IP address, do this:

Run the Add Printer wizard. Select Local Printer - NOT Network printer -
and clear the check box for Automatic printer detection. Click Next and
select Create a new port. Select Standard TCP/IP port and enter the
printer's IP address. Click Next and select the correct printer, etc.

Doug Sherman
MCSE, MCSA, MCP+I, MVP