How to deploy a Printer via GPO on Windows Server 2019 - Video 13 Windows Server 2019 Training.

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide for deploying a printer via Group Policy Object (GPO) on Windows Server 2019. Using GPO for printer deployment allows for centralized management and makes it easier to distribute printers across a network. This process is essential for IT administrators looking to streamline printer management in a Windows Server environment.

Step 1: Install the Print Server Role

To begin, ensure that the Print Server role is installed on your Windows Server 2019 system.

1. Open the Server Manager.
2. Click on Manage and select Add Roles and Features.
3. Follow the wizard:
   • Choose Role-based or feature-based installation.
   • Select your server from the server pool.
   • In the Roles section, check the box for Print and Document Services.
   • Click Next and complete the installation steps.

Step 2: Add Printers to the Print Server

Once the Print Server role is installed, you can add the printers you want to deploy.

1. In the Server Manager, navigate to Tools and select Print Management.
2. Right-click on Printers and select Add Printer.
3. Follow the prompts to add local or network printers:
   • For network printers, choose Add a network, wireless or Bluetooth printer.
   • Follow the prompts to complete the setup.

Step 3: Create a Group Policy Object

Next, you need to create a GPO that will manage the printer deployment.

1. Open the Group Policy Management Console (GPMC).
2. Right-click on the target Organizational Unit (OU) where you want to apply the printer policy.
3. Select Create a GPO in this domain, and Link it here.
4. Name your GPO (e.g., "Printer Deployment") and click OK.

Step 4: Configure the GPO for Printer Deployment

Now, configure the GPO to deploy the printers.

1. Right-click the newly created GPO and select Edit.
2. Navigate to User Configuration > Policies > Windows Settings > Printer Connections.
3. Right-click on Printer Connections and choose Add Printer.
4. Enter the UNC path for the printer (e.g., \\PrintServer\PrinterName).
5. Configure the settings as needed, such as default printer options.

Step 5: Test the Printer Deployment

After configuring the GPO, it’s crucial to test the deployment.

1. Log in to a user account that is part of the OU where the GPO is applied.
2. Open Devices and Printers from the Control Panel.
3. Check if the printer appears in the list of available printers.
4. Test printing a document to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Ensure that the printer is shared on the Print Server with the correct permissions.
• Verify that users have permission to use the printer.
• Check that the GPO is linked to the correct OU and that it is applied.

Conclusion

Deploying printers via GPO on Windows Server 2019 simplifies the management of printers within a network. Remember to install the Print Server role, add your printers, create and configure your GPO, and always test the deployment. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and efficient printer management process in your organization. For further learning, explore additional GPO configurations and advanced printer management features.