Chromebooks may sometimes fail to print. When that happens, you may get an error message saying your computer failed to set up the printer. What’s even more surprising is that this error occurs all of a sudden and your printer worked seamlessly up to that point. Let’s see how you can fix this issue and restore your printer’s functionality.
How to Fix “Error Setting up Printer” on Chromebook
Chromebooks generally throw this error in connection to HP printers. For that reason, the troubleshooting methods below mainly refer to HP printers.
Get The HP Print for Chrome App
If you’re getting this error while trying to print from the Chrome browser, install the HP Print for Chrome app. Install this extension on your browser and check if you can print now.
Once the extension installed, you can quickly print files from Gmail, Google Docs, and other online services.
- Launch your Chrome browser, and open the email or document you want to print.
- Then click the Print icon.
- Under Destination, select the Change button.
- Select your printer and hit Print.
If you’re on a wireless connection, your Chromebook and printer need to be on the same network.
Update Your Printer
Installing the latest printer firmware update may fix this issue. Your printer may not work properly if you’re running old firmware versions. Navigate to your printer’s settings and select the update option. If you’ve never done that before, go to your printer manufacturer’s support page for specific instructions for your printer model.
The same goes for your Chromebook. Update it to the latest version of Chrome OS. Navigate to Settings, select About Chrome OS and then select Check for updates.
Use a Different Pairing Method
There are two ways you can connect your printer to your Chromebook: via a wireless connection or a USB connection. If the printer fails to print on a wireless connection, switch to a USB connection and check if that works.
Add Your Printer Again
- Go to Settings, click Advanced and select Printing.
- Then select Printers.
- Go to your current printer’s name and select More → Remove.
- Go ahead and set up your printer again.
Conclusion
If your Chromebook says it failed to set up your printer, use a different pairing method and update your OS and printer firmware. As a last resort, remove your printer and add it again.
We’re really curious to learn how the troubleshooting process went for you. Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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