My computer cannot use the network printer after configuring OpenDNS.

Overview

Due to the way OpenDNS works, you may not be able to query your printer or local devices by their hostnames. You must query them by their corresponding IP address.

Alternatively, you can add a host file entry for these devices as a workaround. See the following sections for instructions on how to do this.

Solution

Host File Configuration:

The printer's IP address can be mapped in your Operating System's host file with the printer's network name. However, the printer must have a static IP address. Reason being, if the printer is given a new IP address, then the host file will need to be re-modified. 

example:

192.168.2.100 printerName
192.168.2.105 NASdriveName
192.168.2.125 computerName

For Windows 7 or Vista:

1. In the Windows desktop, click Start.
2. In the search field type Notepad. 
3. Right-click Notepad, then click Run as administrator.
   
   
4. Click File -> Open, then navigate to c:/windows/system32/Drivers/etc/hosts (you may need to set the filetype to all)
   
   
5. Add a new line for the printer (please refer to Host File Configuration above).
   
   
   

For Windows 8, 8.1, and 10:

1. Press the Windows Key.
2. In the search field, type Notepad.
3. In the search results, right-click Notepad and click Run as administrator.
4. Click File -> Open, then navigate to c:/windows/system32/Drivers/etc/hosts (you may need to set the filetype to all)
5. Add a new line for the printer(please refer to Host File Configuration above).

MacOS, Linux, Ubuntu etc..:

1. Open your terminal window and type the following command (administrator password may be required). You can substitute nano for any other editor, by typing edit for OSX or gedit for linux or ubuntu desktop will open in a gui editor.

sudo nano /etc/hosts

     2. Add a line similar to the example below for your network printer.

     3. If using nano, on your keyboard press control+x simultaneously to save the file. 

NETGEAR Live Parental Controls (LPC)

For LPC users, please follow the instructions below:

1. Log into your Netgear Dashboard at http://netgear.opendns.com.
2. Click Account Settings.
3. Click Typo Exceptions.
4. Add your network printer hostname.
5. Refer to "Solution" section of this article to configure your devices host file.