If you’re here, it’s likely because you’re in a bit of a printing pickle. You have that crucial university paper, school project, or job resume due tomorrow, and you need your printer to cooperate. Well, fear not!

How to fix Printer Not Showing Up On MAC

This guide aims to help you troubleshoot and fix any printer issues you might encounter, especially when your printer is mysteriously absent from your Mac’s radar.

Step 1: Ensure Your Printer Is Operational

The first order of business is to check if your printer is indeed ready for action. Let’s start by giving it a once-over:

  1. Power Check:
    • Ensure your printer is switched on and plugged in.
    • If it’s a Wi-Fi printer, verify that it’s connected to your network via Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi.
  2. Printer Manual Consultation:
    • Head over to the manufacturer’s website and locate the manual for your printer model.
    • Look for setup instructions or troubleshooting tips tailored to your specific printer.
    Example: My printer, a humble DocuPrint p265dw, is a reliable workhorse. Setting it up on Wi-Fi was a breeze—just a few button presses and a WPS connection with my router.

Step 2: Pinpointing the Issue

Once you’ve verified that your printer is in working order, let’s move on to isolating the problem:

  1. Test From Another Device:
    • If possible, attempt to print from a different device, like an iPhone or another computer.
    • Success on another device indicates the issue might lie with your Mac.
  2. Printing from iOS:
    • Take advantage of AirPrint functionality by selecting a file or image and choosing the AirPrint option.
    • Ensure your printer is connected to the same network as your iOS device.

Step 3: Mac Settings Check

Now, let’s dive into your Mac’s settings to ensure everything’s in order:

  1. Update macOS:
    • Navigate to the Apple logo > About This Mac > Software Update.
    • Install any available updates to keep your system current.
  2. Printers & Scanners Settings:
    • Head to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
    • If your printer is missing or not functioning correctly, try removing and re-adding it:
      • Select the printer and delete it using the minus button.
      • Then, add it again using the plus button.

Step 4: Utilize Terminal and CUPS

For more advanced troubleshooting, let’s explore Terminal and the Common Unix Printing System (CUPS):

  1. Enable CUPS:
    • Open Terminal and enter cupsctl WebInterface=yes.
    • Access the CUPS admin panel through Safari by visiting localhost:631.
  2. CUPS Admin Panel:
    • Explore options like adding or managing printers for additional troubleshooting capabilities.

Step 5: Remove Printer Drivers

If all else fails, let’s try cleaning up and reinstalling printer drivers:

  1. Delete Printer Drivers:
    • Open Finder > Go > Connect to Folder.
    • Enter /Library/Printers/ and delete all files related to printers.
    • Restart your Mac and attempt to print again.

Additional Tips

  1. Create a New User Account:
    • Test printing from a newly created user account to rule out account-specific issues.
  2. Verify Network Connection:
    • Ensure both your Mac and printer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
    • Double-check network settings to ensure proper connectivity.

Video: Printer Not Showing Up On MAC

FAQ Printer Not Showing Up On MAC

Q: Why isn’t the printer showing up on my Mac?

There are a few reasons why your printer might not be showing up on your Mac. Here are some possibilities:

  • Physical Connection: For USB connections, ensure the cable is securely plugged into both the printer and your Mac.
  • Wireless Connectivity: Double-check your Wi-Fi connection on both the printer and your Mac. Make sure they’re on the same network.
  • Software Issues: Outdated printer drivers or bugs in the Mac’s printing system can cause detection problems.

Q: How do I get my Mac to recognise my printer?

Here are some steps to try:

  1. Check the Connection:
    • USB: Ensure the cable is secure and try a different USB port on your Mac.
    • Wi-Fi: Verify your printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Mac. Refer to your printer’s manual for specific instructions.
  2. Add the Printer:
    • Open “System Settings” (or “System Preferences” on older Macs).
    • Click “Printers & Scanners” (or “Print & Scan”).
    • Click the “+” button and choose “Add Printer or Scanner.”
    • Select your printer from the list or follow the on-screen instructions to add it manually.
  3. Reset Printing System:
    • In “Printers & Scanners” settings, right-click (or Ctrl + click) on an empty space in the list.
    • Select “Reset printing system.”
    • Enter your administrator password to confirm.

Q: Why is my printer not showing?

The most common reasons for a missing printer are:

  • Connection Issues: Double-check the physical connection or your Wi-Fi network.
  • Outdated Software: Update your Mac’s operating system and printer drivers.

Q: How do I get my printer back online on my Mac?

Try the troubleshooting steps mentioned above, focusing on checking connections, adding the printer, and resetting the printing system.