This page contains step-by-step instructions to help you set up your PrintAble installation.

1. Install the server

The first step is to download the server application. This is a free download available on our main page. Please note currently the server is only available for Windows PCs.

If you have problems installing or running the server, note that you will require the Microsoft .NET 4 runtime, available here or here.

2. Make sure the server is running

The PrintAble server installation will create a shortcut in your Start menu. Run it, and then click "Start" to start the server.

The first time the server is run, it will ask you to choose the printers you would like to share.

3. Check that the server is working

On the PC that is running PrintAble server, open a web browser and navigate to http://<server IP address>:8018 (for example http://192.168.1.103:8018). You should see a message stating PrintAble server is running.

If you don't know what your IP address is, the PrintAble server will list it when the server is started.

4. Check that your Windows phone can access the server

Now try accessing the PrintAble server from your Windows Phone. From your phone's web browser, navigate to the same address from step 3. You should see the same message as step 3.

This is the most common place that problems occur.

It is possible that you will need to manually check/adjust your firewall settings, especially if you are running a third party firewall such as BitDefender.

TECHNICAL DETAILS: Make sure PrintAbleServer.exe has access to incoming TCP port 8018.

Also check that your phone is connected to the same network as your PC.

5. Install the PrintAble client on your Windows phone

The client can be downloaded from the Windows Phone Store. A free trial is available, please make sure PrintAble works for you before purchasing.

6. Add your PrintAble server details to the client

Run PrintAble on your phone. Navigate to the servers page, and tap "Add Server".

Enter a name to identify this server (eg. "Mum's PC" or "Work"), the IP address of the server (as used in steps 3 and 4), and the port (this can usually stay as the default 8018).

Check your details and tap "Save".

7. Make sure the PrintAble client can access the server

After you have added the server, PrintAble will try to access the server. If successful, a tick will appear beside the server on the phone.