Common Reasons Your Home Printer Is Not Showing Up

  • Not showing on the list of printers: Make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi.
  • The printer is off, asleep, or in the process of a setup: Ensure the printer is on and in a Ready state.
  • The printer requires a firmware update: Ensure the printer and appropriate drivers are updated.
  • The printer is connected by USB: Unplug and replug both sides of the cable.

If you need to add a printer to your MacBook at home, follow the steps below.

1. Confirm the Printer Is Ready.

  • Turn the printer on and confirm there are no error lights/messages (note no errors in the photo below).
  • If the printer has a screen, confirm it is connected to your home Wi-Fi network.
  • If you are using a USB printer, connect the USB cable to the printer and to your MacBook (via adapter if needed).

2. Open Printer Settings on macOS.

  • Click the Apple Menu (top-left).
  • Select System Settings.
  • Click Printers & Scanners.

3. Add the Printer.

  • In Printers & Scanners, click Add Printer, Scanner or Fax (or the + button).
  • Wait a few seconds for available printers to populate.
  • Select your printer from the list.
  • Confirm the Use field shows the correct driver (or AirPrint, if available).
  • Click Add.

Still having issues? Please email us at helpdesk@kinkaid.org