Why can I access the ports on my printer properties?

Gary Smith 25 Reputation points
2025-12-10T06:51:00.0066667+00:00

I am the administrator of my computer. I am on a workgroup (not AD). But yet, I cannot access the ports of some of my printers. They are greyed out.

Any suggestions?

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Devices and drivers
0 comments No comments

Answer accepted by question author
Randy Baroja 20,810 Reputation points Independent Advisor
2025-12-10T07:43:33.5533333+00:00

Hey,

The printer ports are probably greyed out because the first properties window didn't open with full administrative rights, or there is a problem with the printer drivers or network settings that are already installed. Even if you are logged in as an administrator, Windows User Account Control (UAC) may nevertheless prevent certain configuration changes until elevated authority is expressly given within that specific dialogue box.

You may usually resolve greyed-out printer ports by revisiting the printer’s properties panel with admin capabilities. Just open Control Panel and go to Devices and Printers (or Printers & scanners in Windows 11), select your printer, and enter Printer properties. On the General page, you should notice a Change Properties button with a small shield icon, clicking it will shut and reopen the window with elevated rights. Once it’s operating as admin, the Ports tab should no longer be greyed out, and you’ll be able to change or add ports.

You can check on this linke for further details.

Fix printer connection and printing problems in Windows

How do I fix Windows printer properties that are grayed out?

(Note that this in not a microsoft site be cautious of ads or links)

If you have question just leave a comment.

Thank you,

Was this answer helpful?


0 additional answers

Sort by: Oldest

Your answer

Answers can be marked as 'Accepted' by the question author and 'Recommended' by moderators, which helps users know the answer solved the author's problem.