Posted on August 1, 2014
Updated on
May 16, 2023
This page provides the best way to set up a printer on a Mac device, as IP numbers are subject to change.
Requirements
- Device must be running on a supported OS version | Check Device Operating System (OS) Compliance Requirements
- Prerequisite: You must determine the printer's fully qualified domain name, or host name.
- Go to the printer's LCD control panel and print out the network configuration. look for the Ethernet or Network IP information that contains the Printer's IP number and host name.
- Some multi function printers and other printers purchased or placed by MGB will have an asset tag. the number on the tag is part of the name. EG a printer with the tag number 717181 host name would be "csc717181.partners.org"
Instructions
- Go to the Apple menu > Choose System Preferences
- Click on Print & Scan
Note: If the lower left padlock is locked, click it and enter the administrator name and password to unlock it.
- At the bottom of the "Printers" pane, click the + (plus) icon and Add Printer or Scanner...
- On the toolbar, click IP
- IP printers have three printing protocols to choose from. Select HP Jetdirect – Socket
Note: If you pick a protocol other than HP Jetdirect, you will not be able to gather printer info. You will have to manually select the PPD and installable options.
- In the Address field, enter the printer's (fully qualified) domain name or host name. Example: DELL3F606D.partners.org, or DELL3F606D.mgh.harvard.edu | If needed, go back to Requirements for details.
Below the Address field:
- When your Mac can communicate with your IP-capable printer you will see the message: "Valid and complete address."
- If the message is "Invalid or incomplete address.", make sure the host name is properly entered and that it is the name configured on the printer.
- Once your Mac can establish the IP connection to your printer it will display "Gathering printer information…" and set up the proper printer driver in the "Print Using:" field.
- If "Gathering printer information…" stage was successful in selecting the printer driver, click "Add" to create your printer queue on the "Print Using:" pop-up menu.
Tip! Enter the model of printer in the "Printer Software" search field to quickly find the printer software to select.
- If the model of printer is not listed but your printer is a PostScript printer or PCL Laser printer, try the "Generic PostScript" or "PCL Laser printer" drivers.
- Generic printer drivers may not let you access all the features of your printer.