3 Ways to Fix Printer Not Showing Up on Mac

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Fix 1: Add Your Printer via IP Address and Set It to Default

Step 1:Click theApple logoat the top-left corner of the menu bar and selectSystem Settings.

Step 2:ClickPrinters & Scannersfrom the left sidebar. ClickAdd Printer, Scanner or Faxbutton from the right pane.

Step 3:It will open theAdd Printerdialog box. Click on theHost menu iconin the center at the top.

Step 4:Enter your printer’shostname or IP addressto let your Mac detect your printer. Next, click theAdd buttonat the bottom right corner.

Step5:Go back and click on your printer name. Then, click onSet As Defaultand selectDoneto confirm.

Fix 2: Enable Print Sharing on Local Network

Print sharing is useful for non-wireless printers that are connected to your Mac with a cable. For a wireless or AirPrint-compatible printer, you don’t need to share it on the local network.

Step 1:Click theApple logoin the top-left corner and selectSystem Settings.

Step 2:Click onPrinters and Scannersfrom the left menu. Then, click on yourprinter namefrom the right pane.

Step 3:Enable theShare this printer on the networktoggle. Then, clickDoneto save your changes.

Fix 3: Disable Wi-Fi Isolation or Segregation on Router

AP Isolation is a great way to prevent unwanted hacking of your wirelessly connected devices. But this also means that it can prevent wireless devices connected to the same Wi-Fi from communicating with each other.

Step 1:Open your web browser and enter theIP addressfor your router.

You can find the IP address by going to SystemSettings>Wi-Fi>Detailsand you will see the router IP address.

Step 2:Sign in to theadmin panelof the router and find the option ofAP isolation.

Step 3:If the setting is enabled,disableit and restart your router.

Once done, connect your printer again to the network and check if the problem is solved.

Fix 4: Reset the Printing System

Does your printer show on your Mac but can’t print a document? It’s time to reset the printer system for your preferred printer.

Step 1:Click theApple logoat the top-left corner and selectSystem Settings.

Step 2:ClickPrinters & Scannersfrom the left sidebar. Then, select your printer from the right pane.

Step 3:Press the Control key and select the default printer. Select Reset Printing System and try again.

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Last updated on 26 April, 2024

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