Setting up a printing device in the Apple ecosystem is traditionally considered one of the simplest procedures in the world of computing. macOS developers have implemented numerous automatic protocols that allow you to find peripherals on the local network without manually entering IP addresses or complex configurations. However, despite this claimed simplicity, users often encounter situations where MacBook It simply doesn't see the connected device, or the installation process freezes at the driver search stage.
In this article, we'll cover all the intricacies of wireless connectivity, from a basic network check to manually adding a printer via IPP. You'll learn how to bypass common firewall errors and why older models may require additional manufacturer software. AirPrint — This is a technology that makes the process almost invisible, but it does not work with all models, especially those released several years ago.
Before adjusting system settings, ensure your printing device and computer are on the same network. This is a basic, yet often overlooked, requirement that causes 90% of problems. If you're using a dual-band router, check to see if your devices are separated into different guest networks or isolated VLANs.
For successful syncing, you'll need a stable connection and the latest operating system version. We'll cover methods for macOS Ventura, Sonoma, and earlier versions, as menu layouts may vary slightly across different interfaces.
Preparing equipment and network for connection
The first step is to physically prepare the equipment. Make sure the printer is turned on, has supplies, and has no display errors, such as a paper jam or an open cover. Many modern models HP, Canon And Epson have a power saving mode, from which the device may not automatically exit when trying to connect, so it is better to wake it up manually.
Checking the WiFi connection is critical. Your Mac and printer must be connected to the same access point. If you have a guest network or client isolation configured on your router, the devices won't be able to "see" each other, even if they're in the same physical location. Check the network name (SSID) in the WiFi menu on your computer and compare it to the information on the printer's screen.
- 📶 Make sure both devices are connected to the same frequency (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz), although modern routers often combine them under one name.
- 🔌 Restart your router if your network is unstable or the list of available networks is not displayed correctly.
- 📱 Some models require preliminary WiFi setup via the manufacturer's mobile app.
- 🛡️ Check if the built-in macOS firewall is blocking incoming connections for new devices.
If you've just purchased a new device, you may need to perform initial setup via a USB cable or the printer's touchscreen to enter the WiFi network password. Once the printer has successfully connected to the router (usually indicated by the wireless indicator light being lit), you can proceed to setup on your computer.
⚠️ Attention: If you're using a corporate network or a complex router with WPA3 security settings, older printer models may not support new encryption protocols. In this case, you may need to temporarily switch your router to compatibility mode.
Automatic connection via AirPrint technology
The easiest and most preferred method of installation is using technology AirPrintThis feature is built into macOS and allows you to automatically detect compatible printers, eliminating the need to download and install drivers manually. The system will automatically download the necessary profiles from the internet the first time you print.
To begin the process, go to System Preferences. Depending on your macOS version, the path may differ: in newer versions (Ventura and later), it's a separate "System Preferences" app; in older versions, it's an option in the Apple menu. You'll need to find the section for Peripherals.
System Preferences → Printers & ScannersClick "Add a printer, scanner, or fax." The system will search for available devices on your local network. If your printer supports AirPrint, it will appear in the list labeled "Secure AirPrint" or simply the model name. Select it and click "Add." macOS will automatically detect the model and install the appropriate software profile.
- 🖨️ Select your device from the list of detected printers.
- ✅ In the "Use" field, make sure "Secure AirPrint" or "AirPrint" is selected.
- ⏳ Wait for the installation to complete, the status indicator will change to "Idle".
If the "Use" list shows "Generic Text Only" or "Generic PostScript Printer," macOS was unable to find a full profile for your model. In this case, functionality may be limited to basic text printing without access to tray settings or duplex printing.
Manually install a printer by IP address
In cases where automatic search fails, or you use a network printer in the office that doesn't broadcast its name, you'll have to resort to manual installation using its IP address. This method requires knowing the device's network address, which can be found by printing a network configuration report on the printer itself or viewing it on the built-in display in the network settings section.
In the Add Printer window, go to the "IP" tab (globe icon). Here you will need to enter the address in the appropriate field. The protocol is usually selected automatically, but for maximum compatibility with macOS, we recommend using the protocol IPP (Internet Printing Protocol).
| Parameter | Meaning / Description | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Address | The printer's IP address (e.g. 192.168.1.55) | A static IP is required |
| Protocol | IPP, LPD, HP Jetdirect | Choose IPP |
| Queue | Print queue name | Leave blank or "ipp/print" |
| Name | Name for macOS | Any convenient name |
After entering the address, the system will attempt to connect to the device. The "Use" field may automatically populate with the correct driver. If not, select "Select Software" and find your model in the list. If your model isn't listed, you'll need to download the driver from the manufacturer's website, which is discussed in the next section.
⚠️ Attention: The dynamic IP address assigned by the router may change after a reboot, causing the printer to lose connection. It is recommended to configure a static IP address for the printer in the router settings (DHCP Reservation).
☑️ Check before manual installation
Installing drivers and additional software
While macOS is renowned for its out-of-the-box functionality, fully utilizing MFP features (scanning, tray configuration, ink level monitoring) often requires installing a full driver package. This is especially true for brands. Brother, Kyocera and some models Canon.
Download software only from the manufacturer's official website. Third-party resources may contain outdated versions or malicious code. Find the "Support" or "Drivers" section, enter your device's exact model, and select the macOS version. Please note that newer operating system versions (e.g., macOS Sonoma) may not have drivers for older printers.
After downloading the installer (.pkg or .dmg file), follow the on-screen instructions. During the installation, the system may ask for permission to install software from an untrusted source or require you to enter your administrator password. This is a standard macOS security procedure.
- 📥 Download the full driver package from the official website.
- 🔐 Allow installation in security settings if macOS blocks launch.
- 🔄 Restart your computer after installation for the changes to take effect.
In some cases, drivers are supplied as separate components: one for printing, one for scanning, and one for device management. Make sure you install all the necessary components, especially if you need network scanning.
What to do if the driver is not installed?
If the installer reports incompatibility, try running it in compatibility mode or finding a driver version for a previous version of macOS. Drivers from macOS Monterey often work on Ventura but require manual installation via "Add Printer" -> "Choose Software."
Solving common connection problems
Even if you follow all the instructions, errors may still occur. One common issue is a "Stopping" or "Inactive" status in the print queue. This is often due to a change in the printer's IP address or a security protocol conflict. Check if the WiFi indicator on the printer itself is lit.
Another common issue is a "hanging" print queue. If a document has been sent but isn't printing, try clearing the queue. Open Activity Monitor (you can find it in Spotlight), select your printer, and click the clear button. Sometimes, removing the printer from the list of devices and then adding it again helps.
Issues with duplex printing can often be resolved in the driver settings. Go to "System Preferences" → "Printers & Scanners," select the device, and click "Options & Supplies." In the "Options" tab, make sure "Duplex Printing" is checked if the printer has one.
⚠️ Attention: Antivirus software or third-party firewalls (e.g., Kaspersky, ESET) may be blocking network printer discovery. Try temporarily disabling network protection to diagnose the issue.
Setting up network scanning on Mac
After successfully installing a printer, users often forget to set up scanning. In macOS, this feature is integrated through the Image Capture app, which is standard and doesn't require additional software for basic scanning.
Open the Image Capture app via Spotlight search or in the Applications folder. Your network printer should be visible in the left panel. If it's visible, you can select the file format, resolution, and save location for the scan. Advanced features, such as OCR (text recognition), may require proprietary software from the manufacturer.
Some manufacturers, such as HP And Epson, offer their own scanning utilities that are more convenient than the standard macOS tools. They allow you to create scanning profiles and send documents directly to PDF or via email. Install them if the standard functionality doesn't suit you.
- 📂 Use the Image Capture app for quick scanning without unnecessary software.
- ⚙️ Set up save profiles to speed up your work.
- 📧 Check the SMTP settings in the printer's web interface for the Scan to Email feature.
It's important to note that scanning speeds over WiFi may be slower than over USB, especially if the signal is unstable. For larger documents, it's best to use a wired connection or ensure your router supports 802.11ac (WiFi 5) or later.
How to reset the printing system on macOS?
To reset the printers, right-click (or Ctrl+Click) an empty space in the printer list in the Printers & Scanners window and select "Reset Printing System." This will remove all printers and clear the queues.
Why can't my Mac see my printer on my WiFi network?
Most often, the devices are on different subnets (for example, a guest network) or client isolation is enabled on the router. Ports may also be blocked by a firewall.
Is it possible to use a printer without drivers on a Mac?
Yes, if the printer supports AirPrint. In this case, macOS uses built-in profiles. For older models without AirPrint, a driver is required.
How to find out the IP address of a printer if there is no display?
Print a network configuration report, usually by holding down the wireless button or by pressing the "Information" and "Start" buttons. You can also find the IP address in your router's client list.