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how do I add a network printer windows 7

I have a new laptop and my main computer has a printer connected but my other laptop uses it wirelessly. How do I take my new laptop and add a printer? windows 7

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hypercube

I'm just a little unclear how the targeted printer is connected to the network. It sounds like it's connected to the "main computer" which suggests via USB. Yet the title of the question is about a network printer.

How is the target printer connected?
- Ethernet?
- Wireless to the network?
- USB to a computer?

If it's USB to a computer then it needs to be shared on that host computer.
If it's USB or wireless to the network then it will have its own IP address or at least its name will show up on the network.
I prefer using static IP addresses for network printers.

There are two ways you can install the printer and it's worth trying without bothering to get a driver as the driver may already be there:

1) In Printers and Devices, Add a Printer. When the selection appears, tell the installer that it's a NETWORK printer. The installer will scan the network and should find the printers. You may then select (highlight) the appropriate printer and tell the installer to proceed.

2) If the IP address of the printer is static then, when the selection appears, tell the installer that it's a LOCAL printer. Then you will need to say which port and you will add a TCP/IP port. Then it will ask for the IP address and you will enter the IP address and follow the installer thereafter. Yes, it seems strange to call a network printer a LOCAL printer but that's how this works.