How to print from a Chromebook
Learn how to print from a Chromebook and make life a lot easier for yourself
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Chromebooks, especially thebest Chromebooks, are a unique type of laptop that is generally considered safer and more reliable than even thebest Windows laptops, at the cost of a wildly different OS and software compatibility loss. But one of the main functions of a computer is to print documents and, luckily, Chromebooks are just as capable as any other type of PC.
There are two main ways to print from a Chromebook: connecting your Chromebook to a printer via a USB cable or connecting your Chromebook to a printer via Wi-Fi. The former is the wired method and the latter is the wireless method, depending on your particular needs.
Steps for how to print from a Chromebook
Tools & requirements
Step by step guide
1. How to print from a Chromebook using Wi-Fi
As long as the printer you’re using is a recent model, you can easily connect it to your Chromebook. Preparing said printer to connect to Wi-Fi differs between models, so follow the instructions to do so and ensure it’s connected to the same internet as your Chromebook.
Click on the clock in the lower right corner of the Chromebook screen, then click the gear-shaped settings icon.
Searchprintin theControl Paneland then selectAdd Printer. Click on the printer of choice’s name and click on theSet upbutton.
2. How to print from a Chromebook using a USB cable
Connect the USB cable (either Type-A or Type-C) to both the printer and the Chromebook. The printer should connect and then a notification signaling setup.
If the printer model is too old, you’ll have to add the printer manually. Typeprintinto the search box, then selectPrinting. Click on the printer’s name and then theAddbutton.
Final thoughts
Once the printer is properly installed, printing documents is simple. In any browser tab, press theCtrl-Pshortcut on the keyboard, and use thePrintcommand in apps. If your printer doesn’t appear in theDestinationfield immediately, click onSee more…and it should be there.
Despite compatibility limitations, Chromebooks can perform most basic tasks that Windows laptops and thebest MacBookscan perform. As long as you know how to perform certain tasks, a Chromebook can be just as flexible. And, thanks to how safe Chromebooks are due to constant OS updates, the lack of threats to its OS, data encryption, and ‘sandboxing’ of browser tabs, printer security is hardly a concern either.
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Named by the CTA as a CES 2023 Media Trailblazer, Allisa is a Computing Staff Writer who covers breaking news and rumors in the computing industry, as well as reviews, hands-on previews, featured articles, and the latest deals and trends. In her spare time you can find her chatting it up on her two podcasts, Megaten Marathon and Combo Chain, as well as playing any JRPGs she can get her hands on.
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