Chromebook users need a reliable way to connect printers for everyday tasks. Whether you have a wireless model or an older USB device, knowing how to manually add a printer to a Chromebook ensures you can print documents when automatic detection fails.
Chrome OS recognizes most modern printers automatically. But older models or certain network configurations require manual setup. The process takes just a few minutes and works across all compatible printer brands.
You’ll need your printer’s network address for wireless models or a USB cable for wired connections. This guide walks you through both methods.
How To Manually Add A Printer To A Chromebook?
The setup process varies depending on your printer type. Wireless printers require network configuration, while USB printers connect directly through a cable.
Adding a Wireless Printer
Click the time display at the bottom right corner of your screen. Select the gear icon to open Settings.
Navigate to the left sidebar and find “Print and scan.” Click the arrow next to “Printers” to expand the options.
You’ll see two sections: saved printers and available printers. If your device appears under available printers, click “Save” next to it. That completes the setup.
If your printer doesn’t appear automatically, click the plus icon next to “Add printer manually.” This opens a configuration window.
Find your printer’s IP address by checking its display panel or network settings menu. Most wireless printers show this information in the setup or network section.
Enter a name you’ll recognize later. Type the IP address in the address field. Select “Internet Printing Protocol (IPP)” from the protocol dropdown menu.
Click “Add” to save your printer. It now appears in your saved printers list and is ready to use.
Connecting a USB Printer
Insert your printer’s USB cable into an available port on your Chromebook. The system detects the connection immediately.
A notification appears on your screen. Click the button to add the printer. An installation wizard guides you through the remaining steps.
Most installations complete automatically. The wizard configures drivers without requiring additional input from you.
If no wizard appears, open Settings manually using the steps above. Your connected printer appears under available printers. Select it and click “Save.”
Testing Your Printer Connection
Open any document, photo, or webpage you want to print. Press Ctrl + P to open the print dialog.
Click the “Destination” dropdown menu. Select “See more” to view all connected printers.
Choose your newly added printer from the list. Adjust settings like page range, copies, and orientation as needed. Click “Print” to send your document.
If you’re printing from your Chromebook for the first time, you may need to click “See more” in the destination menu to find your device.
Wireless printers work best when both devices connect to the same network. If you experience connection issues, check your WiFi settings first. Network problems often prevent printers from appearing in the available devices list. Some older wireless models may need a Chrome Web App for better compatibility.
FAQs
What Information Do I Need To Manually Add A Printer?
You need your printer’s IP address for wireless models. Find this in your printer’s network settings menu. USB printers only need a compatible cable connection.
Why Doesn’t My Printer Appear Automatically?
Older printer models may lack automatic detection. Network configuration issues can also prevent discovery. Manual setup resolves these problems by entering the printer’s address directly.
Can I Add Multiple Printers To My Chromebook?
Yes, you can add multiple printers using the same process. Each printer needs a unique name. All saved printers appear in the print destination menu.
What Protocol Should I Select For Wireless Printers?
Select Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) for most wireless printers. This protocol works with modern printer models. Some older devices may require different protocols listed in the dropdown.
Do USB Printers Require Driver Installation?
Chrome OS installs drivers automatically. No manual driver downloads are needed. The installation wizard handles configuration when you connect the USB cable to your Chromebook.