Chromebook: how to connect a printer

Chromebooks can print to most modern printers that connect by Wi-Fi, without needing any special software. Here is how.

Before you begin

• Switch the printer on and make sure it has paper and ink.
• Connect the printer to the same Wi-Fi network as your Chromebook. Most printers have a small screen or a button that helps with this. See the printer's manual.
• If your printer is old and only works with a cable, it may not work with ChromeOS at all.

Add a printer

1. Click the time in the bottom right, then the Settings cog.
2. Choose Advanced, then Printing, then Printers. On some versions, you may find Printing directly in the list on the left.
3. Click Add printer.
4. If your printer appears under Nearby printers, click Save or Add.
5. If it does not appear, choose Add manually, type a name and the printer's address if you have it, and follow the steps.

Take care when typing in an address. If you do not know it, ask us.

Print something

Open a web page or document, press Ctrl and P, and choose your printer from the Destination list. Click Print.

If the printer is not found

• Restart the printer, the router and the Chromebook.
• Check they are on the same Wi-Fi network and not a guest network.
• Look for AirPrint or IPP or Mopria in the printer's description, as these work well with ChromeOS.

Printing from your phone with Google Account

Some printers can be linked with other tools. Check the printer maker's instructions.

School and work Chromebooks

If your Chromebook is managed, the organisation may control which printers you can use.

When to get more help

Contact us if the printer is not found after the steps above, if documents are stuck in a queue, or if you are unsure whether your printer supports Chromebooks. Tell us the make and model of your printer.