Your Mac can't find or see your printer
Your Mac can't find your printer because it's either off, not connected, or on a different network. Check if the printer is on first, make sure it's connected properly to WiFi or USB, then try adding it again.
Your Mac needs to reach your printer. This means either a USB cable plugged in or the printer on the same WiFi network as your Mac. If your Mac can't see it, the connection is broken — the printer can be off, the cable loose, it lost WiFi, or the driver software is out of date.
- ✓Check that your printer is turned on and showing a power light
- ✓If it's a USB printer, have the cable ready to plug in
- ✓If it's a WiFi printer, have your WiFi network name and password
Fix-IT-Bot will walk you through each step, just tap, no typing needed.
Skip, I just want a technicianCommon mistakes to avoid
- Not checking if the printer is on before troubleshooting anything else
- Using an old or damaged USB cable without trying a different one
- Not waiting long enough for WiFi printers to connect to the network
Signs you need professional help
- Printer shows in System Settings but still won't print. You need help downloading or installing printer drivers. Your printer used to work but suddenly disappeared. You have a specialized printer that needs custom setup.
Book a technician
We can fix most issues remotely in 15 minutes. Book your weekend slot and we handle the rest.
Was this guide helpful?
Can't fix it yourself?
Most issues are resolved remotely in 15 minutes. Weekend appointments only, no parts, no in-home visit needed.
