Mac printer not printing

On a Mac, a dead printer is usually a paused queue or a half-added AirPrint device. Resetting the print system is the cleanest first move if nothing is in the middle of a long job.

Resume the queue

Open the printer from System Settings → Printers & Scanners. If it says Paused, click Resume. Delete failed jobs.

Reset the print system

In Printers & Scanners, Control-click the printer list and choose Reset printing system. This removes all printers. Re-add only the one you need.

Add it correctly

Prefer the manufacturer’s current Mac driver for laser printers. Use AirPrint for simple inkjets on the same LAN. Do not add the same printer twice (USB plus Bonjour).

Same network

The Mac and printer must share a LAN, not a guest/isolation SSID. A printer with an APIPA address (169.254.x.x) is not actually on the network.

When to get TechMax involved

If macOS adds the printer then every job vanishes, or you need scanning plus printing on a business MFP, a remote session can install the full driver pack and set the default paper size.

Need this done with you on the line?

Start a LogMeIn Rescue connection with the PIN your TechMax technician provides.

Start support connection