Set up a printer on Mac: AirPrint or a driver?
Use AirPrint when your model supports it. Older USB and host-based printers need a separate compatibility check.
Check AirPrint support for your model
AirPrint is a capability of supported printers, not a feature added to every printer by installing a new version of macOS. Apple recommends using AirPrint for compatible models. If the model is not compatible, check the manufacturer for software supporting your exact macOS version. A Windows EXE cannot serve as a Mac driver.
Add the printer in System Settings
Turn the printer on and resolve any error on its display. For a network printer, connect it to a network your Mac can reach. Guest Wi-Fi or network isolation can prevent discovery even when both devices have internet access.
- Open System Settings → Printers & Scanners → Add Printer, Scanner or Fax.
- Select the exact device. Check the software selected in the Use field; choose AirPrint when it is available for the model.
- Add it, print a test page and check whether the duplex and paper-size options you need are available.
For an older USB printer
Connect using an appropriate cable and adapter, then check whether macOS detects it. If no supported software is available, do not install an unrelated model’s driver or assume a generic network protocol will replace a required host-based driver. Check the model’s manufacturer support page for a supported operating system or alternative setup.
Test scanning separately
An all-in-one’s print queue and scanner are separate functions. Check Printers & Scanners for a scan option or the supported scanning app. If scanning is absent, verify scanner support for the model and macOS version before downloading a full suite.
The Mac prints a new test page with the paper size and duplex settings you need.
Common questions
Do I need to download a printer driver for a Mac?
A compatible AirPrint printer can print without a separate manufacturer driver. Add it in System Settings → Printers & Scanners and check the Use field. If AirPrint is unavailable, check the exact model and macOS release on the manufacturer's support site.
Can an old USB printer use AirPrint automatically?
No. USB connectivity does not establish AirPrint support. A legacy host-based printer may require software that is unavailable for your current macOS. Check the exact variant rather than borrowing instructions for a wireless model.