Printing Over VPN: It Can Be Done

Printing to a local printer while connected to a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can be a significant challenge for many users. This guide explains why this difficulty arises and explores viable options for printing with an active VPN connection.

Can I Print While Connected to a VPN?

It is often difficult to connect to a local print network and a remote VPN network simultaneously. When your device connects to a VPN server, all network traffic redirects over the remote network. This setup prevents the device from directly connecting to a local wireless printer, which remains on your local network.

This behavior ensures the corporate network is isolated from local devices, enhancing security. It's why blocking USB interfaces on the computer is often recommended.

Printing While Connected to a VPN: Options to Consider

There are several ways to print while your device is connected to a VPN.

Adjust VPN Settings

Some VPN providers allow you to easily connect to a local wireless printer by changing application settings. The VPN client might have an option to direct data connections to local network resources.

Enabling this option allows your device to connect to the printer on your local network without disconnecting from the VPN. This setting is usually found under "Preferences" or "Settings" within your VPN client. Look for features like "Enable LAN access" or "Allow access to local network devices."

Connect Your Printer with a Cable

If your printer and computer are connected directly via a cable, you typically won't experience printing problems, even with an active VPN connection. Most printers connect to computers using standard USB-AB cables, which are widely available.

While effective, this method is not a long-term solution. It only works when the printer is directly connected to the computer. Use this approach temporarily if no other options are readily available.

Use Cloud Printing Solutions to Print Over VPN

A cloud printing service like ezeep offers an intuitive method for printing over VPN.

Setting up is straightforward. First, establish a connection between the ezeep cloud and your printer, often using the ezeep Hub. The Hub acts as a compact print server, connecting to the same network as your printer. Register the Hub in the ezeep Admin Portal using its MAC address. It then automatically connects the printer to the ezeep Cloud.

This setup also keeps your printer secure by preventing direct access from incoming connections, mitigating potential hacking risks. Once configured, you can print to the printer via the ezeep web portal. For printing directly from an application, use the ezeep Print App.

This approach provides a secure way for businesses to manage home office printing scenarios. It eliminates the need to adjust VPN settings or connect printers via USB. The ezeep Hub can be configured remotely through the cloud, requiring only network integration. IT administrators can send it directly to employees in a home office. The ezeep Hub helps you print securely because all print jobs transmit with TLS encryption. This means you can even reconsider if a VPN connection is truly necessary for printing alone.

Summary

Overcoming the challenges of printing with an active VPN connection is possible through various methods. Strategies include adjusting VPN settings, using a direct cable connection, or implementing cloud printing services like ezeep. With ezeep, printing to local devices works just as before, even with an active VPN connection, eliminating the need for insecure workarounds. ezeep is built on ThinPrint technology, trusted by Fortune 500 organizations, and handles millions of pages daily.

To improve printing for your remote workforce, consider adopting a cloud-based solution. Learn more about the ezeep Hub and try it free today.