Chromebooks, especially the best ones, are a unique type of laptop that are generally considered more secure and reliable than even the best Windows laptops, at the cost of a very different operating system and a loss of software compatibility. But one of the main functions of a computer is printing documents, and thankfully, Chromebooks are just as capable as any other type of PC.
There are two main ways to print from a Chromebook: connecting the Chromebook to a printer using a USB cable or connecting the Chromebook to a printer using Wi-Fi. The first is the wired method and the second is the wireless method, depending on your particular needs.
Steps to print from a Chromebook
- For Wi-Fi, have both the printer and Chromebook on the same Internet connection. Add printer Through the control Panel.
- For USB, connect the printer to the Chromebook using the cable.
- Use either of the two Ctrl-P shortcut or the Print Command to print documents.
Tools and requirements
- A Chromebook (of course!)
- A printer
- The document you want to print
Step by step guide
1. How to print from a Chromebook using Wi-Fi
(Image: © Unsplash/Dreamlike Street)
As long as the printer you're using is a recent model, you'll be able to easily connect it to your Chromebook. Preparing your printer to connect to Wi-Fi varies by model, so follow the instructions to do so and make sure it's connected to the same Internet network as your Chromebook.
Click the clock in the bottom right corner of your Chromebook screen, then click the gear-shaped settings icon.
Look for print in it control Panel and then select Add printerClick on the name of the printer of your choice and click on the Configuration button.
2. How to print from a Chromebook using a USB cable
(Image: © Futuro)
Connect the USB cable (either Type A or Type C) to the printer and the Chromebook. The printer should connect and then a notification flag setting should appear.
If the printer model is too old, you will need to add the printer manually. Type print in the search box, then select ImpressionClick the printer name and then click Add button.
Final thoughts
Once the printer is properly installed, printing documents is easy. From any browser tab, press the button Ctrl-P keyboard shortcut and use the Print Command in applications. If your printer does not appear in the Destination field immediately, click on See more… and it should be there.
Despite compatibility limitations, Chromebooks can perform most of the basic tasks that Windows laptops and the best MacBooks can. As long as you know how to perform certain tasks, a Chromebook can be just as flexible. And, thanks to Chromebooks' security due to constant OS updates, lack of threats to their operating system, data encryption, and browser tab “sandboxing,” printer security is also not a concern.