How to Print From a Chromebook: Setup in ChromeOS

Overview: Printing on ChromeOS

ChromeOS supports printing through USB, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. Most printers work without extra drivers because ChromeOS includes built-in support for many common printer models. The setup process is designed to be quick: you connect the printer or add it manually, and ChromeOS handles the rest. If you run into trouble, a few basic checks usually solve the problem.

Because ChromeOS is cloud-first, printing can also work from anywhere if you use a cloud printing service. This article walks you through the basic setup steps, then covers common issues and how to fix them. For more on keeping your device up to date, see our guide on Chromebook updates and support.

Set up a USB printer

The simplest way to print is to plug a USB printer into your Chromebook. ChromeOS automatically recognizes most USB printers and installs whatever software is needed. To see if your printer is detected, open the Files app and look for the printer in the sidebar, or go to Settings and look under 'Printers and scanners'. For a broader look at connectivity options, refer to Chromebook connectivity ports.

• Connect the printer to your Chromebook with a USB cable.
• Turn on the printer.
• Wait a few seconds for ChromeOS to detect it.
• If prompted, follow the on-screen instructions.

Set up a Wi-Fi or network printer

If your printer is connected to your home or office network, add it manually. Click the time in the bottom-right corner, then select the gear icon to open Settings. Under 'Printers and scanners,' choose 'Add printer' and wait for ChromeOS to find printers on your network. Select your printer from the list and confirm.

Make sure your printer and Chromebook are on the same Wi-Fi network. If your printer has a touchscreen, check its network settings to confirm it's connected. For Ethernet-connected printers, ensure the network path is accessible. Understanding your Wi-Fi setup is key; see Chromebook Wi-Fi standards for more.

Print from your Chromebook

To print any page or document, press Ctrl+P or choose Print from the browser menu. In the print dialog, select your printer from the dropdown menu, adjust the number of copies, color, and pages, then click the Print button. You can also choose a different printer if you have more than one.

For web pages, you can preview what will be printed and remove clutter. For documents from apps like Google Docs, the same dialog appears. You can also print to PDF by selecting 'Save as PDF' in the printer list. If you need to work offline, consider Chromebook offline use to understand your options.

Cloud printing options

While Google Cloud Print was discontinued in 2020, you can still print from anywhere using other cloud-based services. Many modern printers offer their own cloud printing features, often accessible through a companion app. With a Chromebook, you can also use an Android app from the printer maker, or send documents to a printer via email if it supports that feature. For guidance on using apps, see Chromebook app support.

If you need to print a document that's on your Chromebook from another device, you can save it to a cloud storage service, then access it from any device that has a printer. Alternatively, you can use the 'Print' option in the Files app to send a file to a printer or to a cloud service.

Fix common printing problems

If your Chromebook doesn't see your printer, start by checking the physical connections. For USB printers, try a different cable or port. For wireless printers, confirm both devices are on the same network. Restart the printer and the Chromebook, then try again.

If the printer is still not detected, check for Chromebook software updates. ChromeOS updates often include fixes for printer compatibility. To update, go to Settings > About ChromeOS > Check for updates. If you use a managed device, contact your administrator. For more on the update process, see Chromebook updates and support.

• Printer not found on the network.
• Printer shows as offline.
• Print job stuck in queue.
• Poor print quality or slow printing.
• Printer requires a driver that ChromeOS doesn't include.

Printing on managed Chromebooks

In workplaces and schools, ChromeOS administrators can configure printers centrally. They can push a list of available printers to all managed devices, set default printers, or restrict printing to specific printers. If your Chromebook is managed and you don't see a printer, the policy may not include it. Contact your IT department for assistance.

For personal devices, you have full control over printer settings. You can also set a default printer from the Settings page so you don't have to choose it every time.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Why won't my Chromebook detect my printer?

Check that the printer is on and connected to the same network. For USB printers, try a different port or cable. Restart both devices, then look for the printer in Settings > Printers and scanners. If it still isn't there, update ChromeOS.

Can I print from a Chromebook without a printer?

Yes, you can save documents as PDFs from the print dialog. To print later, transfer the PDF to a computer or mobile device that has a printer. Or use a cloud printing service that sends the document to a printer over the internet.

How do I set a default printer?

In Settings, go to Printers and scanners. Find your printer, select it, and click 'Set as default.' If you're on a managed device, your administrator may set defaults for you.

Why is my print job stuck in the queue?

Open the print queue by clicking the print icon in the status area. You can cancel the job and resend. Make sure the printer has paper and ink. If the problem persists, restart the printer and Chromebook.

Do I need to install printer drivers on a Chromebook?

In most cases, no. ChromeOS includes built-in drivers for many printers. If your printer isn't supported, you may need to use the printer's mobile app or contact the manufacturer for a ChromeOS-compatible solution.

How do I fix Wi-Fi printing problems?

Make sure your printer and Chromebook are on the same Wi-Fi network. Check the printer's network settings, and try moving the printer closer to the router. Restart the router if needed. Also, update ChromeOS to ensure you have the latest fixes.