Add a Printer Using System Settings in macOS 13

Adding a printer in macOS 13 (Ventura) is a straightforward process, though the updated System Settings menu changes the layout compared to older Mac operating systems. This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions on how to discover, configure, and add a local USB, Wi-Fi, or network-based printer to your Mac using the new System Settings interface.

Step 1: Prepare Your Printer

Ensure your printer is plugged in, powered on, and ready to print.

  • For Wi-Fi/Network Printers: Make sure the printer is connected to the exact same Wi-Fi network as your Mac.
  • For USB Printers: Connect the USB cable directly to your Mac (use an adapter if your Mac only features USB-C ports).

Step 2: Open Printers & Scanners

  1. Click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner of your screen.
  2. Select System Settings.
  3. In the sidebar on the left, scroll down and click Printers & Scanners.

Step 3: Add the Printer

  1. Click the Add Printer, Scanner, or Fax... button on the right side of the window.
  2. A new window will appear with three tabs across the top:
    • Default (Printer icon): Displays all automatically detected AirPrint and local network or USB printers.
    • IP (Globe icon): Allows you to manually enter the IP address or hostname of a network printer.
    • Windows (Computer icon): Allows you to connect to a printer shared over a Windows network (SMB).

Step 4: Select and Install

  1. Under the Default tab, locate your printer in the list and click on it.
  2. Look at the Use field at the bottom:
    • In most cases, macOS will automatically choose AirPrint or Secure AirPrint.
    • If AirPrint is not available, select Select Software... to manually choose a manufacturer driver you have downloaded.
  3. Click the Add button in the bottom-right corner.

Your printer will now appear in the Printers & Scanners list in System Settings. You can click on the printer's name to set it as your default printer, manage printer options, or view print queues.