How to add a printer on Mac

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To add a printer on a Mac, you can use the System Preferences or the Print & Scan feature. Simply navigate to the Printers & Scanners section, click the '+' button, and select your printer from the list. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before adding a printer on your Mac, ensure the following requirements are met.
  • •macOS version: Ensure your Mac is running macOS Mojave (10.14) or later for better compatibility.
  • •Printer compatibility: Verify that your printer is compatible with macOS.
  • •Network access: Ensure your Mac is connected to the same network as the printer (for network printers).
  • •Administrative access: You may need admin privileges to add a printer.

Method 1: Adding a Printer via System Preferences

This is the most common method to add a printer on a Mac, suitable for both local and network printers.
  • •Step 1: Click on the Apple menu () in the top-left corner of your screen and select 'System Preferences'.
  • •Step 2: In the System Preferences window, click on 'Printers & Scanners'.
  • •Step 3: In the Printers & Scanners window, click the '+' button located below the list of printers.
  • •Step 4: A new window will appear showing available printers. Select your printer from the list. If it’s not listed, ensure it’s powered on and connected to the network.
  • •Step 5: Click 'Add' to install the printer. You may be prompted to download drivers if they are not already installed.
  • •Step 6: Once added, you can verify the printer by checking its status in the Printers & Scanners window.

For macOS Ventura and later

The steps remain largely the same, but the interface may have slight variations.
  • •In System Preferences, the Printers & Scanners icon may be labeled as 'Printers & Scanners' directly.
  • •Ensure to check for any software updates that may provide additional drivers.

For macOS Monterey and earlier

Older versions may have slightly different layouts but follow the same basic steps.
  • •The '+' button may be more prominent, and the list of printers may appear differently.

Method 2: Adding a Printer via IP Address

This method is useful for adding network printers that may not automatically appear in the list.
  • •Step 1: Open 'System Preferences' and select 'Printers & Scanners'.
  • •Step 2: Click the '+' button to add a printer.
  • •Step 3: In the new window, click on the 'IP' tab.
  • •Step 4: Enter the printer's IP address in the 'Address' field. You can usually find this on the printer's display or in its settings.
  • •Step 5: Select the appropriate protocol (usually 'Line Printer Daemon - LPD' or 'Internet Printing Protocol - IPP').
  • •Step 6: Enter a name for the printer and select the driver from the 'Use' dropdown menu.
  • •Step 7: Click 'Add' to complete the setup.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while adding a printer, refer to the following solutions.
  • •Error: 'Printer not found' - Solution: Ensure the printer is powered on and connected to the same network as your Mac.
  • •Issue: 'Driver not available' - Fix: Visit the printer manufacturer's website to download the latest drivers for macOS.
  • •Problem: 'Printer offline' - Workaround: Check the printer's connection and restart both the printer and your Mac.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your printing experience with these advanced tips.
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Command + P - Opens the print dialog for the active document.
  • •Command line: 'lpstat -p' - Displays the status of all printers connected to your Mac.
  • •Hidden feature: AirPrint - Allows printing from iOS devices without additional drivers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For a seamless printing experience, always ensure your printer's firmware is up to date and that you have the latest macOS updates.