The Definitive Print Servers Buying Guide
Introduction
Print servers, also known as network printers, are a convenient way to share a single printer with multiple computers on a network. Choosing the right print server can greatly improve the efficiency and productivity of a business or office. However, with so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. This article will provide some tips on how to choose the best print server for your needs.
Consider Your Printing Needs
The first step in choosing a print server is to consider your printing needs. How many people will be using the printer? How much printing do you expect to do? What kind of documents will you be printing? Answering these questions will help you determine the type of print server that will best meet your needs.
If you have a small office with only a few users, a basic print server may be sufficient. These devices typically support a single printer and a limited number of users. On the other hand, if you have a larger office with more demanding printing needs, you may want to consider a more advanced print server that can support multiple printers and a larger number of users.
Check Compatibility
Before purchasing a print server, it's important to make sure it is compatible with your existing network and printers. Most print servers are compatible with both wired and wireless networks, but it's still a good idea to check the specifications to make sure. You'll also want to make sure the print server is compatible with your specific brand and model of printer.
Look for Features
Once you've determined your printing needs and checked compatibility, you can start looking at the various features offered by different print servers. Some of the most useful features to consider include:
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Security: Print servers should offer robust security features to protect your documents and prevent unauthorized access to the printer. Look for print servers that support encryption and authentication protocols like SSL and 802.1X.
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Printing options: Different print servers offer different printing options, such as duplex (double-sided) printing and the ability to print in different sizes and colors. Consider which options are most important for your needs.
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Network connectivity: Print servers should offer easy connectivity to your network, either through Ethernet cables or wireless connections. Look for print servers that offer multiple connectivity options for added flexibility.
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Management and monitoring: Good print server software should offer tools for managing and monitoring the printer, such as the ability to monitor ink levels and set up print queues.
Conclusion
Choosing the right print server can greatly improve the efficiency and productivity of your business or office. By considering your printing needs, checking compatibility, and looking for useful features, you can find a print server that will meet your specific needs and help you get the most out of your printer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the examples of a print server?
Examples of print servers include wireless print servers, network laser printers with built-in print servers like Brother HL-2070N, color laser network printers with network connection like Dell 1320cn, and external print servers like HP JetDirect 170X with LAN and parallel printer ports. These devices facilitate network printing and enable multiple devices to connect to shared printers.
2. Where do I find the print server?
To find the print server, click on Start, go to Administrative Tools, and then click on Configure Your Server Wizard. Follow the prompts and select 'Print server' as the server role. This will help you configure and set up the print server on your network.
3. What is the difference between a print server and a printer?
A print server is a computer or device that communicates with printers, enabling multiple devices to connect and print to those printers over a network. On the other hand, a network printer is a printer that is directly connected to a network, allowing devices to print to it without the need for a separate print server.
4. How much does a print server cost?
The cost of a print server can vary depending on the specific model and features. However, a survey found that the cost of provisioning or replacing a print server can range from $1,000 to over $6,000. It is recommended to research and compare prices from different vendors to find a print server that fits your budget and requirements.
5. Do people still use print servers?
Yes, many businesses still use print servers, especially those that have multiple print and capture devices in their offices. Print servers offer advantages that basic operating system-level print functionalities may not provide, such as centralized management, improved security, and better control over print jobs and resources.
6. What is the point of a print server?
The main purpose of a print server is to act as a dedicated appliance or software that helps clients, users, and devices connect to shared printers. It processes and manages spool files, ensuring that print jobs are sent from clients to the printer efficiently. Print servers streamline printing operations and enhance the overall printing experience in a network environment.
7. What are the disadvantages of print server?
There are some disadvantages associated with print servers, including costs for hardware, software, and operation and maintenance. Additionally, large print jobs can create high WAN loads, putting a strain on the network when print data traffic between remote sites and the central print server is heavy. These factors should be considered when implementing a print server in a network infrastructure.
Editor's Notes
During our print server research, we found 24 print server products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 12,934 customer reviews through our big data system to write the print servers list. We found that most customers choose print servers with an average price of $54.25.
The print servers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of print servers, including IOGEAR, StarTech.com, DYMO, Xiiaozet, Monoprice. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.
