How to print a file to a local printer using remote access

Over the next few weeks, we'll be taking a deep dive into how to use, and make the most of, some of the most useful features of VNC Connect remote access software.
VNC Connect Print file local printer remote access

We are starting with remote printing.

You might need to print a file to a local printer when using remote access. This will happen especially when you’re working from two machines at the same time. Luckily, VNC Connect makes this very easy to do.  

Also, more interesting tips on how to use VNC remote access software can be found here 

What do you need in order to print using remote access? 

Imagine working on your company-issued computer, but occasionally needing to print documents from the home one. You have a printer right next to you, but it’s tedious to always have to make a local copy of the file before printing.  

Provided you have a VNC Connect Professional or Enterprise subscription, this is extremely easy to do. Be mindful that this will not work for Home subscriptions, nor for VNC Viewer on an iOS, Android, or Chrome-powered device. 

Nothing needs setting up, as the feature is part of the software right out of the box. Here’s how to actually use it.  

Printing a file from a remote computer 

Open VNC Viewer and select the machine you want to control. Of course, the machine will need to run our VNC Server. In this particular situation, we’re talking about your home computer. Find the file you would like to print and open it. 

Next, go to File > Print or use the Ctrl + P keyboard combination. The printer connected to the machine running VNC Viewer is shown. It’s listed as Printer name via VNC from Machine name, as seen below. Print as you normally would and the document will come out.  

VNC Connect Print file local printer remote access menu

In regards to print quality, VNC Connect will use the best possible print quality on the local printer. Altering print settings is also possible. You can do so by modifying the default printer settings on the machine running VNC Viewer. 

If you haven’t tried VNC Connect yet, you can take a free 14-day trial.

Bogdan Bele

Bogdan Bele

A journalist by formation and experience, and a content writer by trade. I’ve been writing content, both online and offline, for more than 15 years. My focus has always been technology, but I’ve also ventured into fields as diverse as music, football or news. I am RealVNC’s in-house Digital Content Editor, so a lot of what you’re reading on this blog is written by me. I also edit a lot of our content output. When I’m not writing, editing or reading, you’ll probably find me at a concert or watching a Chelsea FC game.

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