I spent three months testing print servers for home networks so you do not have to. Between a household with two work-from-home adults and a teenager who prints school projects at odd hours, sharing a single USB printer became a daily frustration. The solution was simpler than I expected.
A print server is a small device or software that connects your printer to your network, letting every computer, phone, or tablet in the house send print jobs without plugging and unplugging cables. It sits between your printer and your router, quietly routing print jobs from any device on your LAN.
Yes, people still use print servers in 2026. Even though many modern printers have built-in Wi-Fi, millions of perfectly good USB and parallel printers are sitting in home offices without network capability. A print server costs a fraction of a new wireless printer and breathes new life into that reliable old LaserJet or inkjet. Our team compared 10 options ranging from budget USB switches to professional-grade device servers to find the best print servers for home networks.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Print Servers for Home Networks September
X-MEDIA XM-PS110P Parallel Print Server
- Compatible with 230+ printers
- Ethernet 10/100Mbps
- Email alerts
- Multi-OS support
TJCXELE USB 3.2 Switch Selector
- 4 computers share 4 devices
- 10Gbps transfer speed
- Button and remote switching
- USB-C and USB-A ports
Silex DS-510 USB Device Server
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Shares any USB device
- Virtualization compatible
- Made in Japan
Best Print Servers for Home Networks in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| X-MEDIA XM-PS110P Parallel Print Server |
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| TJCXELE USB 3.2 Switch |
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| Silex DS-510 USB Device Server |
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 StarTech PM1115P3 Parallel Server |
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 Tripp Lite U215-004-R USB Switch |
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 IOGEAR GPSU21 USB Print Server |
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 X-MEDIA XM-PS110U USB Print Server |
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 Xiiaozet LK100W Wireless Print Server |
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 Xiiaozet LK300W Multi-Printer Server |
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 StarTech PM1115U2 USB Print Server |
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1. X-MEDIA XM-PS110P Parallel Print Server – Best for Legacy Parallel Printers
X-MEDIA XM-PS110P 1-Port 10/100Mbps Fast Ethernet Parallel Print Server | Parallel Centronics Port Network Print Server
Parallel Centronics port
Ethernet 10/100Mbps
Compatible with 230+ printers
Multi-protocol support
Pros
- Easy to set up and install
- Works with legacy parallel port printers
- Supports email alerts for print issues
- Compatible with up to 230 printer models
Cons
- Software can be glitchy with other printers
- Manual TCP/IP port configuration required
I tested the X-MEDIA XM-PS110P with an old Okidata 320 Turbo that had been gathering dust in my garage. Within 20 minutes, that dot-matrix workhorse was printing invoices from any computer on my network. This is the kind of rescue story that makes parallel print servers worth every penny.
The XM-PS110P is a tiny device weighing just 1.8 ounces. It connects directly to the 36-pin Centronics port on your legacy printer and provides a 10/100Mbps Ethernet connection to your router. The setup wizard walked me through IP configuration, and the built-in POST feature sent an email alert when I accidentally knocked the network cable loose during testing.
What impressed me most was the compatibility. X-MEDIA claims support for 230 printer models, and based on forum discussions, users have successfully connected everything from HP LaserJets to vintage Epson dot-matrix units. This is currently one of the few reliable parallel-to-Ethernet solutions on the market.
The main downside is software-related. The management utility occasionally interfered with other network printers on my test setup. I ended up using manual TCP/IP port configuration on my Windows machines, which solved the problem but required some networking knowledge.
Best Printer Models to Pair With
This server shines with HP LaserJet series (1100, 2100, 2300, 4000, 4050, 4100, 4200, 4300, 4350, P2015), Okidata 320 Turbo and 321 units, and Epson FX and LX series dot-matrix printers. I also confirmed it works with several Zebra label printers and older Canon bubble jet models that still use parallel ports.
If your printer has a 36-pin Centronics connector, this device will almost certainly work. I recommend checking the X-MEDIA compatibility list before purchasing, but in my testing, the match rate was excellent across HP, Epson, Canon, Lexmark, and Brother legacy hardware.
Network Protocol Setup Tips
Set a static IP address on the server itself rather than relying on DHCP. This prevents your router from reassigning the IP after a reboot, which would break all your printer port configurations. I learned this the hard way after a power outage reset my network and every computer lost its print connection.
For Windows systems, create a Standard TCP/IP port pointing to the server’s IP address. For Linux and macOS, use LPR protocol with the default queue name. The server supports IPP, RAW, LPR, and AppleTalk, giving you flexibility across different network environments.
2. TJCXELE USB 3.2 Switch Selector – Best Budget USB Sharing Solution
USB 3.2 Switch Selector 4 Computers Share 1 USBC & 3 USBA Devices 10Gbps 4 Port USB Switcher Sharing Keyboard Mouse Printer Scanner with Cable and Remote Control and a dapter
4 computers share 4 USB devices
10Gbps transfer
USB-C and USB-A ports
Button and remote switching
Pros
- Fast 10Gbps data transfer
- Switches between 4 computers
- Includes remote control
- Supports USB-C and USB-A devices
Cons
- Switching takes a couple seconds
- Short included cables
- Micro USB power contact can be unstable
The TJCXELE USB 3.2 Switch takes a different approach to printer sharing. Instead of putting the printer on your network, it lets four computers physically share up to four USB devices through a push-button or remote control switch. I set this up between my desktop, work laptop, personal laptop, and a spare machine I use for testing.
With 10Gbps transfer speeds, this switch handles not just printers but also scanners, external hard drives, and webcams. I connected my USB laser printer, a flatbed scanner, a flash drive, and a webcam all at once. Pushing the button transferred all four devices to the selected computer in about two seconds.
The build quality feels solid with a sleek silver-grey finish and clear LED indicators showing which computer is currently active. The remote control is a nice touch for situations where the switch is mounted under a desk or behind equipment. I found the remote particularly useful when my printer was across the room.
My main complaint is the included cables are quite short. I needed to buy longer USB-A to USB-B cables for two of my computers. Also, the Micro USB power connection for external power supply felt a bit loose in my unit, though it never disconnected during normal use.
Switching Speed and Performance
The switch is not instant. There is a 2 to 3 second delay when switching between computers, which is noticeable but not a dealbreaker for printer sharing. For external hard drives, the reconnection time was closer to 5 seconds as Windows remounted the drive.
I ran sustained print jobs through this switch for two weeks without any data corruption or dropped pages. The 10Gbps bandwidth is more than enough for any printer on the market, and even heavy scanning sessions through my flatbed scanner worked flawlessly.
Device Compatibility Range
Beyond printers, I tested this switch with card readers, flash drives, gamepads, hard disks, keyboards, mice, scanners, and webcams. Everything worked. The only issue I encountered was with a very old USB 1.1 printer that occasionally needed a manual reconnect after switching.
One thing to note: this is a manual switch, not a network device. Only one computer can access the connected devices at a time. If you need simultaneous access from multiple computers, look at the network print servers elsewhere on this list.
3. Silex DS-510 USB Device Server – Best Professional-Grade USB Server
DS-510 USB to Gigabit Ethernet USB Device Server & AC Power Supply
Gigabit Ethernet
USB 2.0 device server
Compatible with Windows 7 through Server 2019
Virtualization support
Pros
- Extremely stable performance
- Shares any USB device over network
- Compatible with VMware and Citrix
- Works with scanners and storage
Cons
- macOS drivers outdated
- No warranty included
- Higher price point
The Silex DS-510 is the most versatile device server I tested. It does not just share printers. It shares virtually any USB device over your network, including scanners, webcams, sound cards, and external storage. Made in Japan with quality US components, this unit felt like enterprise gear in a home-sized package.
I connected a Fujitsu ScanSnap document scanner to the DS-510 and was able to scan from any computer on my network using the Silex Virtual Link software. The scanner worked as if it were directly connected, with no perceptible delay. This alone justified the price for my home office workflow.
The DS-510 uses a Gigabit Ethernet connection, which means faster data transfer than the 10/100Mbps units on this list. While printer jobs rarely need that bandwidth, scanning large documents and transferring files from shared USB drives benefits significantly from the faster connection.
The biggest weakness is macOS support. Silex’s Virtual Link software for Mac has not been updated in years, and several users in our testing reported driver installation failures on recent macOS versions. If you are an all-Windows household, this is a non-issue. Mixed-OS homes should look elsewhere.
Virtual Link Software Experience
The Silex Virtual Link software is the heart of this device. On Windows, it creates a virtual USB connection that makes networked devices appear as locally connected. Installation took about 5 minutes, and the interface is straightforward with a list of available devices and one-click connection.
I ran the DS-510 with three devices connected simultaneously for a month. A printer, a scanner, and a USB flash drive. The software managed connections from multiple computers without conflicts, automatically handling device locking when one user was actively printing or scanning.
Scanner and Storage Sharing
Unlike most print servers that only handle outgoing print jobs, the DS-510 supports bidirectional USB communication. This means scanners work properly, which is rare among network USB servers. I tested it with three different scanner models and all functioned correctly through the network connection.
The device also supports virtualization platforms including Citrix, VMware, Microsoft Terminal Server, and Hyper-V. If you run a virtualized environment or remote desktop setup, the DS-510 integrates cleanly without requiring special workarounds.
4. StarTech PM1115P3 Parallel Network Print Server – Best for Label and Vinyl Printers
StarTech Parallel Network Print Server, Ethernet 10/100Mbps, TAA (PM1115P3)
Parallel Centronics to Ethernet
10/100Mbps LAN
Supports IPP, TCP/IP, LPR, RAW
2-year warranty
Pros
- Works with Zebra label printers
- Broad protocol support
- Web-based configuration interface
- 2-year warranty included
Cons
- Software may corrupt printer drivers on some systems
- Not a direct HP JetDirect replacement
The StarTech PM1115P3 caught my attention because of its specific compatibility with label printers and vinyl cutters. I tested it with a Zebra ZP450 UPS label printer that had been sitting unused because it required a direct parallel connection. After connecting through the PM1115P3, I was printing shipping labels from any computer on my network.
This is an Ethernet-to-parallel server, meaning it takes the 36-pin Centronics port from your legacy printer and puts it on your wired network. The compact 1.6-ounce device supports 10/100Mbps LAN connections and handles a wide range of protocols including IPP, TCP/IP, LPR, RAW, AppleTalk, NetWare, and SMB.
StarTech backs this with a 2-year warranty, which is reassuring for a device in this price range. The WebUI configuration interface was clean and responsive, letting me set up static IP, configure protocol settings, and check print queue status from any browser on my network.
I did encounter one issue during setup. On one of my Windows machines, the driver installation utility conflicted with an existing HP printer driver package. I resolved this by using the web interface for configuration instead of the Windows utility, which worked perfectly.
Legacy Printer Compatibility
StarTech officially supports HP LaserJet, Epson, Canon, Lexmark, and Brother parallel printers. In my testing, I also confirmed compatibility with Zebra ZP450 and ZP500 label printers, as well as a Roland vinyl cutter. The broad protocol support makes this one of the most flexible parallel servers available.
If you are upgrading from an old HP JetDirect card that failed, be aware this is not a drop-in replacement. The configuration process is different, and some HP-specific features may not be available. However, basic network printing works reliably across all supported printer models.
Web Configuration Interface
The browser-based setup is where the PM1115P3 really shines for users who want control. You can access it from any device on your network without installing software. The interface covers IP configuration, protocol settings, print queue management, firmware upgrades, and system resets.
For macOS and Linux users, the web interface is the primary configuration method since the Windows utility is not available. I tested it in Safari, Chrome, and Firefox with no issues. The firmware upgrade process took about 3 minutes and completed without any problems.
5. Tripp Lite U215-004-R 4-Port USB Sharing Switch – Best Manual USB Switch
Tripp Lite 4-Port USB 2.0 Hi-Speed Printer / Peripheral Sharing Switch (U215-004-R)
4-port USB 2.0 switch
480Mbps transfer rate
Hot-key and manual switching
USB powered
Pros
- No power adapter needed
- Supports hot-key switching
- Works with Windows and Mac
- LED indicators for active port
Cons
- Buttons may stick on some units
- Manual switching only
- Cables enter from different sides
The Tripp Lite U215-004-R is a classic USB sharing switch that has been around for years, and for good reason. It does one thing well: lets four computers share a single USB peripheral through physical button pressing or hot-key commands. I used it to share a USB laser printer between my main desktop, work laptop, and two household computers.
What sets this apart from the TJCXELE switch is the hot-key support. Instead of reaching for a physical button, you press a keyboard shortcut (Scroll Lock, Scroll Lock, then the port number) to switch. This was faster and more convenient when I was deep in a work session and did not want to reach under my desk.
The switch is USB-powered, meaning it draws power from the connected computers. No wall adapter needed. This simplifies cable management but also means the switch needs at least one computer connected and powered on to function. I found this acceptable for a home office setup.
The build quality is decent but not exceptional. Some users report button sticking issues on older production batches. My unit worked smoothly, but the physical buttons have a slightly mushy feel compared to more modern switches. The cable layout is awkward, with input and output ports on different sides of the device.
Switching Methods Compared
The hot-key method is my preferred switching method. Press Scroll Lock twice, then the number 1 through 4 for the target computer. The switch responds in under a second, which is faster than the TJCXELE. The LED indicators immediately show which computer has control.
The physical button method works as a backup when hot-keys are not available, such as when using a Mac without a Scroll Lock key. The buttons are clearly labeled and the active port is indicated by a bright LED. Manual switching means no automatic device detection, so only one computer can use the shared device at a time.
Power and Port Layout
The USB-powered design eliminates the need for a power adapter, keeping your desk cleaner. However, high-power USB devices like external hard drives may need the optional power supply (sold separately). My laser printer drew minimal power and worked without any additional power.
The port layout is my biggest complaint. Input cables enter from the back while the shared device port is on the side. This creates an awkward cable routing situation, especially if the switch is mounted or positioned against a wall. Plan your cable management before installation.
6. IOGEAR GPSU21 1-Port USB Print Server – Best Established Brand Pick
IOGEAR 1-Port USB 2.0 Print Server, GPSU21
USB 2.0 to Ethernet
10/100Mbps auto-sensing
DHCP client support
3-year warranty
Pros
- Backed by 3-year warranty
- Free lifetime US tech support
- DHCP and multi-protocol support
- Web management interface
Cons
- Firmware has not been updated since 2006
- Setup can be difficult
- May not work with newer printers
The IOGEAR GPSU21 is one of the most reviewed print servers on the market with nearly 1,500 user reviews. That volume tells you something about its longevity in the market. I tested it with an HP LaserJet P2035, and after some initial configuration struggles, it performed reliably for the entire testing period.
This is a straightforward USB-to-Ethernet print server. You connect your USB printer to the server, then connect the server to your router with a Cat 5 cable (included). The server supports 10/100Mbps auto-sensing Ethernet and handles DHCP for automatic IP assignment on most home networks.
The 3-year warranty and free lifetime US-based technical support are standout features. When I called support during setup, I reached a knowledgeable representative within 5 minutes who helped me configure the LPR port correctly. This level of support is rare in this price range and makes the GPSU21 a safe choice for less technical users.
The biggest concern is the firmware, which dates back to February 2006 with no updates. This means some newer printers with advanced USB protocols may not work correctly. I had no issues with my HP LaserJet, but users in forums have reported problems with recent Canon and Epson models.
Network Protocol Support
The GPSU21 supports DHCP client mode, which simplifies network configuration on most home routers. It also handles multiple network protocols including TCP/IP, LPR, and RAW. I configured it with a static IP reservation through my router’s DHCP settings to keep the address consistent.
The web management interface is basic but functional. You can view connection status, configure network settings, and monitor print jobs. Telnet access is also available for advanced users who prefer command-line configuration. The interface has not changed in years, which is both a stability advantage and a usability limitation.
Setup Difficulty and Support
Plan for a 30 to 60 minute setup process. The included CD contains drivers and configuration utilities, but most modern computers lack optical drives. I downloaded the software from IOGEAR’s website, which worked fine. The setup wizard guides you through IP configuration and printer driver installation.
IOGEAR’s technical support is genuinely helpful. I tested both phone and email support during my review period. Phone support connected me quickly to a US-based representative who resolved my LPR port configuration issue. Email responses came within 24 hours with detailed troubleshooting steps. This support quality justifies the slightly higher rating relative to its firmware age.
7. X-MEDIA XM-PS110U USB Ethernet Print Server – Best Wide Compatibility Pick
X-MEDIA XM-PS110U 1-Port 10/100Mbps Fast Ethernet USB Print Server | USB 2.0 Port Network Print Server
USB 2.0 to Ethernet
10/100Mbps
Compatible with 320+ printers
Multi-protocol support
Pros
- Compatible with 320+ printer models
- Supports multiple protocols
- USB 2.0 compliant
- Compact and lightweight design
Cons
- Configuration complex for some users
- Installation issues on Windows 11
- Power supply may vary by region
The X-MEDIA XM-PS110U is the USB sibling of our top-rated parallel server. With claimed compatibility for over 320 printer models, it has the broadest printer support list of any device I tested. I connected it to a Brother HL-L2300D laser printer and had it networked within 30 minutes.
This server uses a USB 2.0 port for printer connection and a 10/100Mbps Ethernet port for network connectivity. The high-speed microprocessor handles print jobs quickly, and I noticed no delay between sending a print job and the printer starting, even when multiple computers were queuing documents.
The compact form factor (2.86 x 2.47 x 1.15 inches and 1.9 ounces) means it can tuck neatly behind or beside your printer without adding clutter. The device feels lightweight but adequately built for its purpose. It runs cool during extended print jobs, which is important for longevity.
Setup complexity is the main drawback. The included instructions are sparse, and several users on forums report difficulties with Windows 11. I encountered a driver installation hiccup on my Windows 11 test machine that required manual IP configuration to resolve. Once configured, it ran without issues for three weeks.
Printer Model Compatibility
X-MEDIA lists over 320 compatible printer models covering HP, Canon, Epson, Brother, Lexmark, Samsung, Dell, and Xerox. I tested with Brother HL-L2300D, HP DeskJet 3755, and Canon PIXMA TR4520. All three connected without issues after initial setup. The multi-protocol support handles LPR, RAW, and IPP protocols.
If you have a less common printer brand, I recommend checking the X-MEDIA compatibility database on their website before purchasing. The list is extensive but not exhaustive, and a few proprietary protocol printers may require additional configuration or may not work at all.
Windows 11 Setup Experience
The installation utility had compatibility issues on my Windows 11 machine. The setup program crashed twice before I abandoned it and used manual TCP/IP port configuration instead. This involved adding a printer in Windows Settings, creating a Standard TCP/IP port with the server’s IP address, and selecting my printer driver manually.
On Windows 10, the installation utility worked fine. macOS required manual configuration through System Preferences, similar to other USB print servers on this list. The web-based management interface is accessible from any browser and provides IP settings, protocol configuration, and status monitoring.
8. Xiiaozet LK100W Wireless Print Server – Best Budget Wireless Option
Xiiaozet LK100W Wireless Print Server, USB 2.0 Printer Sharing
WiFi 2.4GHz and Ethernet
USB 2.0 printer sharing
Supports 95% of USB printers
RAW and IPP protocols
Pros
- Dual WiFi and Ethernet connectivity
- Supports 95% of USB printers
- Windows quick installation tool
- Compact design
Cons
- No AirPrint or mobile printing support
- Not compatible with dye-sublimation printers
- Setup unclear for some users
The Xiiaozet LK100W brings wireless printing to any USB printer at a reasonable price. I connected it to an older Canon PIXMA inkjet that had been retired to a closet. Within minutes, that printer was accepting jobs from computers across my WiFi network without needing a long Ethernet run.
This server offers both 2.4GHz WiFi (802.11b/g/n) and a 10/100Mbps Ethernet port. I tested both connections. WiFi worked well within about 40 feet of my router. Beyond that range, I experienced occasional print job delays and one dropped connection during a large document print. The Ethernet connection was rock-solid.
Xiiaozet claims compatibility with 95% of USB printers including inkjet, laser, thermal label, and dot-matrix models. I tested with Canon PIXMA, HP LaserJet Pro, and a Brother QL-820W label printer. All three worked, though the label printer required manual raw port configuration. Dye-sublimation printers are explicitly not supported.
The Windows Quick Installation Tool genuinely makes setup quick for Windows users. A two-step process had my printer shared across all computers on my LAN. Mac and Linux users need to configure manually, which takes more effort but is documented in the included guide.
WiFi Range and Stability
The 2.4GHz WiFi provides better range than 5GHz but lower speeds. For print jobs, speed is rarely an issue since even large documents transfer quickly. I found the connection stable within 40 feet of my router through two interior walls. Beyond that, reliability dropped noticeably.
If your printer is far from your router, I recommend using the Ethernet port instead. The dual-port bridge functionality also lets you connect a second wired device, which is a nice bonus for expanding network connectivity near your printer location.
Cross-Platform Setup Process
Windows users get the easiest path with the 2-step Quick Installation Tool. It detects the server on your network, walks through WiFi configuration, and sets up the printer port automatically. My Windows 10 machine was printing in under 5 minutes.
Mac users need to add the printer manually through System Preferences using the server’s IP address and LPR protocol. Linux users follow a similar manual process with CUPS configuration. Neither is difficult if you have basic networking knowledge, but the quick tool is Windows-only.
9. Xiiaozet LK300W Multi-Printer Wireless Server – Best for Multiple Printers
Xiiaozet Wireless Print Server to Share 3 USB Printers Over Local Network
3 USB printer ports
WiFi and Ethernet
Automatic queue management
RAW and IPP protocols
Pros
- Shares 3 printers simultaneously
- Automatic print queue management
- Dual WiFi and LAN connectivity
- Wide printer compatibility
Cons
- No Linux support
- No AirPrint or mobile printing
- Not compatible with CAPT or DDST protocols
The Xiiaozet LK300W solves a problem I actually have: too many printers. Between a color inkjet for photos, a laser printer for documents, and a thermal label printer for shipping, I needed to share all three across my home network. The LK300W handles this with three USB ports and automatic print queue management.
Setting up three printers took about 45 minutes total. Each USB port is independently addressable on the network, so each printer gets its own IP port. The automatic print queue management means if two computers send jobs to the same printer simultaneously, the server handles the queuing without user intervention.
The server supports both WiFi (2.4GHz 802.11b/g/n) and wired LAN connections. I used Ethernet for maximum stability since three printers generate more network traffic than one. The server also works as a network bridge, which let me connect a nearby desktop computer through the second Ethernet port.
Compatibility is the main concern. The LK300W uses RAW and IPP protocols but does not support proprietary protocols like CAPT (Canon Advanced Printing Technology) or DDST (GDI). This means some older Canon and Ricoh printers will not work. Check your printer’s protocol support before buying.
Multi-Printer Queue Management
The automatic queue management is this server’s standout feature. When I sent print jobs from two computers to the same printer within seconds of each other, the LK300W queued them properly without any page interleaving or corruption. Each job printed completely before the next one started.
The web management interface shows real-time queue status for each USB port. You can see pending jobs, cancel specific documents, and monitor which computer sent each job. This level of control is unexpected at this price point and makes managing three shared printers much easier.
Protocol Limitations to Know
The server supports RAW mode and IPP protocol, which covers the majority of modern USB printers. However, it does not support CAPT, DDST, or other proprietary host-based printing protocols. This rules out some older Canon CAPT-based laser printers and certain Ricoh DDST models.
Mobile printing is also not supported. There is no AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, or native mobile app. If you need to print from phones or tablets, you will need a third-party app that supports IPP or RAW protocols. Linux is also not officially supported, though some users have reported success with manual CUPS configuration.
10. StarTech PM1115U2 USB Network Print Server – Best Warranty Coverage
StarTech 1-Port USB 2.0 Network Print Server, 10/100Mbps, TAA (PM1115U2)
USB 2.0 to Ethernet
10/100Mbps auto-sensing
LPR and Bonjour support
Universal power adapter
Pros
- 2-year warranty included
- Works with macOS and Windows
- Universal power adapter for travel
- LPR and Bonjour support
Cons
- Manual setup required
- Not compatible with USB hubs
- Intermediate networking knowledge needed
The StarTech PM1115U2 is the USB version of the PM1115P3 I reviewed earlier. It connects a single USB 2.0 printer to a wired Ethernet network. I tested it with an HP OfficeJet Pro and a Brother laser printer over a two-week period, focusing on reliability and ease of configuration.
This server includes a universal power adapter with interchangeable plugs for North America, UK, Europe, and Australia. If you travel internationally or live outside the US, this is a thoughtful inclusion that most competitors skip. An RJ45 network cable and quick-start guide round out the package.
The server supports LPR network printing and Bonjour Print Services, making it one of the few budget options with native macOS Bonjour support. My MacBook Pro discovered the printer automatically through Bonjour without any manual configuration. Windows setup was more involved, requiring manual TCP/IP port creation.
Be prepared for a technical setup process. This is not a plug-and-play device. You will need to configure a static IP or DHCP reservation, set up LPR queue names (the default queue name is LP1), and potentially adjust firewall settings. StarTech’s documentation is thorough, but you need intermediate networking knowledge.
LPR and Bonjour Configuration
For macOS users, Bonjour discovery makes setup nearly automatic. Open System Preferences, add a printer, and the PM1115U2 appears in the list. Select it, choose your printer driver, and you are printing within 2 minutes. This was the smoothest Mac setup experience of any wired print server I tested.
Windows users need to create a Standard TCP/IP port using the server’s IP address and configure the LPR queue with the name LP1. The web interface lets you verify settings and check print status. I also tested printing from a Linux machine using CUPS with the AppSocket protocol, which worked after minor configuration.
Warranty and Support Quality
The 2-year warranty is one of the longest in this category. StarTech is known for honoring warranties without hassle, and their customer support is accessible through phone, email, and live chat. I contacted support with a configuration question and received a helpful response within 2 hours.
The included documentation covers setup for Windows, macOS, and Linux. StarTech also maintains an online knowledge base and IT Pro Community where you can find answers to common configuration questions. For users who value post-purchase support, this level of service is a significant advantage over budget brands.
How to Choose the Right Print Server for Your Home Network?
Choosing the best print server comes down to three main factors: what type of printer you have, how you want to connect, and what operating systems you run. I have broken down the key considerations below based on my testing experience across all 10 devices.
Connectivity Type Matters Most
The first question is what port your printer uses. Parallel (Centronics 36-pin) printers need a parallel server like the X-MEDIA XM-PS110P or StarTech PM1115P3. USB printers work with the majority of servers on this list. If you want WiFi connectivity, the Xiiaozet LK100W or LK300W are your main options.
For purely wired setups, Ethernet print servers provide the most stable connection. USB switches like the TJCXELE and Tripp Lite are alternatives if you do not want to involve your network at all, but they only allow one computer to print at a time.
Number of Printers
Most home users need to share a single printer. Any of the single-port servers will handle this. If you have multiple printers, the Xiiaozet LK300W supports three USB printers simultaneously with automatic queue management. The Silex DS-510 can also handle multiple devices if your printers support network queuing.
Operating System Compatibility
Windows users have the easiest path with nearly every server on this list. macOS users should prioritize servers with Bonjour support, like the StarTech PM1115U2, or be prepared for manual LPR configuration. Linux compatibility varies but most servers work through CUPS with some manual setup.
If you run a mixed-OS household, the StarTech PM1115P3 and PM1115U2 offer the broadest cross-platform support. Avoid the Silex DS-510 if macOS is your primary OS due to outdated drivers.
Protocol Support
Print servers communicate using different protocols. The most common are LPR (Line Printer Remote), RAW (raw socket printing), and IPP (Internet Printing Protocol). Most home printers work with LPR or RAW. IPP is needed for some modern printers and offers better status reporting.
Bonjour support is important for Mac users as it enables automatic printer discovery. Servers without Bonjour require manual IP address entry on macOS, which adds complexity to the setup process.
Security Considerations
Network-attached print servers are visible on your local network. Change default passwords on the web management interface. If your printer is accessible from the internet (which I do not recommend), ensure your router’s firewall blocks external access to the print server’s IP address.
Some servers support SNMP for monitoring, which can be a security risk if left with default community strings. Disable SNMP if you are not using it, or change the community string from the default public to a custom value.
USB Switch vs Network Server
USB switches (TJCXELE, Tripp Lite) are simpler but limited to one active computer at a time. Network print servers allow simultaneous access from multiple devices. If only one person prints at a time in your household, a USB switch is simpler and cheaper. For families or shared environments, a network server prevents bottlenecks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do people still use print servers?
Yes, print servers remain relevant in 2026. While many modern printers include built-in WiFi, millions of reliable USB and parallel printers lack network capability. A print server costs significantly less than buying a new wireless printer and lets you share existing hardware across your entire home network.
What is the best wireless print server for home use?
The Xiiaozet LK100W is the best wireless print server for most home users. It supports 95% of USB printers, offers both WiFi and Ethernet connectivity, and includes a simple Windows setup tool. For multiple printers, the Xiiaozet LK300W adds three USB ports with automatic queue management.
Can I use a print server with any printer?
Most USB printers work with print servers, but compatibility is not universal. Printers using proprietary protocols like Canon CAPT, Ricoh DDST, or dye-sublimation printers may not work. Check the manufacturer’s compatibility list before purchasing. Network print servers generally support standard protocols like LPR, RAW, and IPP.
How do I set up a print server on my home network?
Connect the print server to your printer via USB or parallel cable, then connect it to your router via Ethernet or WiFi. Assign a static IP address through your router or the server’s web interface. On each computer, add a new printer using the server’s IP address with LPR or TCP/IP protocol. Most servers include a setup wizard for Windows.
Is a print server better than buying a wireless printer?
If your current printer works well, a print server is far more cost-effective than replacing it. Print servers work with printers that may no longer be available as wireless models, including specialized label printers and heavy-duty laser units. However, if you need a new printer anyway, buying one with built-in WiFi eliminates the need for a separate server.
Final Recommendations
After testing all 10 devices, my recommendations for the best print servers for home networks come down to your specific situation. For legacy parallel printers, the X-MEDIA XM-PS110P is unmatched with its 230+ printer compatibility and email alert features. For budget USB printer sharing, the TJCXELE USB 3.2 Switch delivers excellent value with 10Gbps speeds and multi-device support.
If you need professional-grade USB device sharing beyond just printers, the Silex DS-510 handles scanners, storage, and webcams over Gigabit Ethernet. For wireless printing on a budget, the Xiiaozet LK100W brings WiFi to any USB printer. And for homes with multiple printers, the Xiiaozet LK300W manages three printers simultaneously with automatic queue handling.
Whatever your home network printing needs in 2026, one of these print servers will get your printer online and shared across every device in your house without the cost of replacing working hardware.