How to add a printer to a Mac

Adding a printer to a Mac can be accomplished in a few simple steps. Even if you’re dealing with a printer without WiFi, this article has got you covered.

Add a printer wirelessly

Most printers nowadays come with WiFi and Bluetooth. If you’re connecting via WiFi, make sure that your printer and Mac are connected to the same network. If you’re connecting via Bluetooth, make sure that it is turned on for each device. From there, the steps are the same.

From the Apple menu, open “System Preferences,” the click on “Printers & Scanners.”

Open “Printers & Scanners” to get started.
Credit: Apple

Your printer might already show up on the list, but if not, click on the little plus sign.

Click the plus sign to add a printer.
Credit: Apple

The window that pops up shows a list of printers in the local network. Select the one you want to print from and click “Add.”

Select your printer from the list and click “Add.”
Credit: Apple

Add a printer with an IP address

Another way to add a printer wirelessly is by manually adding its IP address. This is a good backup option if the printer isn’t discoverable for some reason. How to find the IP address is different for each printer, but you should be able to find it by browsing through the menu options. On an HP Envy 5660, it is located by tapping on the WiFi icon.

Credit: HP

Credit: HP

Once you’ve found your IP address, go to “Printers & Scanners,” and click the plus sign to add a new printer. At the top of the window, click the globe icon in the middle and add your IP address where it says “Address.” Then click “Add.”

Type in your IP address and click “Add.”
Credit: Apple

Add a printer with a USB cable

If the printer in question doesn’t have WiFi, you can always resort to good old hardware. Connect the printer to your computer with a USB cable. When you plug in the USB cable, the printer will automatically show up in the list of available printers, or it will prompt you to install new printer software. Hit “Install” and follow the steps to complete the installation.