How does the Windows Firewall potentially interfere with printer connections, and how can I fix it?

The Windows Firewall might be blocking communication with the printer. To check, search for 'Windows Defender Firewall' in the Start menu. Click 'Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall'. Find your printer in the list and ensure both 'Private' and 'Public' checkboxes are ticked. If it's not listed, click 'Allow another app...', browse to the printer's executable file (usually in Program Files), and add it.