Yes. A USB printer can be connected to an ethernet router. For this, you would need an Ethernet print server.
The ethernet print server is a device which will connvert the USB port of the printer to an ethernet port. The ethernet port can then be connected to the interface of the router using an ethernet cable.
The device has a USB port and an ethernet port on it. The USB cable from the printer will be connected to the USB port on the device and the ethernet port on the router will be connected to the ethernet port of the device using ethernet cable.
The StarTech.com 10/100Mbps Ethernet is a good choice. It supports 10/100 Mbps on the ethernet port.
The device can be purchased from Amazon here – StarTech.com 10/100Mbps Ethernet
The Ethernet print server is USB 2.0 compliant and and works with Mac & Window operating systems.
FAQ
How can I share a usb printer with two computers
Once you connect the ethernet print server, the printer is on the network. Once on the network, any computer which is on the same network can share the printer using its IP address.
The printer driver on the respective computers are configured to print to the IP address of the printer.
What type of printers are supported by the device
Almost all type of printers are supported by the device unless specified.
What are the cables I need for setting up the printer with the device.
A USB cable is used to connect the printer to the USB port on the printer. An ethernet cable is used to connect to the ethernet port on the print server , which is then used to connect to the router.
Should I connect the device to any specific port on the ethernet router
No. You can connect it to any LAN port on the router. This is a standard ethernet port which will perform autosensing.