Are you struggling with AirPrint not working on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac? You’re not alone. AirPrint is a convenient Apple feature that lets you print wirelessly without installing extra drivers—but when it fails, it can be frustrating.
In this guide, we’ll cover why AirPrint stops working and provide step-by-step solutions to fix it. Whether your AirPrint printer isn’t detected, showing offline, or failing after an iOS update, this article will help you get printing again.
🔍 Common Reasons Why AirPrint Isn’t Working
AirPrint problems usually come down to one of these:
- 📶 Wi-Fi issues (printer and device not on the same network)
- 🖨️ Printer compatibility (not every wireless printer supports AirPrint)
- 🔒 Firewall or router settings blocking communication
- 🔄 iOS/macOS updates causing temporary bugs
- ⚙️ Outdated printer firmware
🛠️ Quick Fixes for AirPrint Not Working
1. Check Wi-Fi and Network
- Ensure your iPhone/iPad and AirPrint-enabled printer are on the same Wi-Fi network.
- Restart your Wi-Fi router.
- Avoid using guest or public Wi-Fi networks.
2. Restart Devices
- Power off your printer, wait 30 seconds, then restart.
- Restart your iPhone/iPad/Mac.
- Try reconnecting to the printer.
3. Update Printer Firmware
- Visit your printer manufacturer’s website.
- Download the latest firmware.
- Install updates to ensure compatibility with iOS/macOS.
4. Disable VPN & Firewalls
- Turn off any VPN connection.
- Check router/firewall settings that may block communication between devices.
5. Reset Printer Settings
- On the printer, go to Settings > Reset Network.
- Reconnect it to Wi-Fi.
- Try AirPrint again.
📱 Device-Specific Fixes
iPhone & iPad
- Make sure iOS is updated to the latest version.
- Go to Settings > Wi-Fi, ensure it’s connected to the same network as the printer.
- Try removing and reconnecting the printer.
Mac
- Go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners.
- Remove the printer and re-add it.
- Reset printing system if the issue persists.
🧑💻 Advanced Fixes
- Use the printer’s IP address instead of automatic detection.
- Check if the printer has Bonjour/mDNS enabled (required for AirPrint).
- If unsupported, consider installing third-party AirPrint alternatives like HandyPrint or Printopia.
Why is AirPrint not working on my iPhone or iPad?
AirPrint may fail if your device and printer are not on the same Wi-Fi network, if firmware is outdated, or if network firewalls block the connection.
How do I reset AirPrint on my iPhone?
Restart your iPhone, reset Wi-Fi connections, and re-add the printer under Wi-Fi settings.
My AirPrint printer is not showing up—what should I do?
Restart your router, check Bonjour is enabled on the printer, and update the printer’s firmware.
Does AirPrint work with all printers?
No, only printers that support AirPrint technology can work natively. For others, you need third-party app
🏆 Conclusion
If your AirPrint is not working, don’t panic. Most problems can be fixed with simple steps like restarting devices, updating firmware, or checking Wi-Fi settings. For persistent issues, advanced methods like Bonjour configuration or third-party AirPrint apps may help.
With this guide, you should be able to get back to printing wirelessly from your Apple device in no time.
