Wireless printers allow hosts to connect and print wirelessly using Bluetooth, 802.11x, or infrared (IR). For wireless printers to use Bluetooth, both the printer and the host device must have Bluetooth capabilities and be paired. If necessary, you can add a Bluetooth adapter to the computer, usually in a USB port. Wireless Bluetooth printers allow for easy printing from mobile devices.
Wireless printers designed for 802.11 standards are equipped with installed wireless NICs and connect directly to a wireless router or access point. Setup is completed by connecting the printer to the computer with the supplied software or using the printer display panel to connect to the wireless router
IR printing, the earliest form of wireless printing, requires transmitters and receivers on both devices. Both devices must have a clear line of sight between the transmitter and receiver, with a maximum distance of 12 ft (3.7 m).