How to Fix “No AirPrint Printers Found” Error
You’re ready to print a document from your iPhone or iPad, but suddenly you see a message: “No AirPrint Printers Found.” This frustrating error can grind your workflow to a halt—especially when time is of the essence.
AirPrint, Apple’s seamless printing protocol, is known for its plug-and-play convenience. But when it doesn’t work, multiple culprits might be to blame—from network glitches to outdated firmware. This article explores practical troubleshooting methods to get your printer detected and back online.
Quick Navigations
What Is AirPrint and Why Does This Error Occur?
Understanding AirPrint Technology
AirPrint is Apple’s wireless printing protocol built into iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. It allows devices to discover and print to compatible printers without needing to install additional drivers or apps.
Common Reasons for “No AirPrint Printers Found”
| Root Cause | Details |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi not on same network | iOS device and printer must be on the same Wi-Fi |
| Printer not AirPrint-enabled | Only AirPrint-certified printers can be detected |
| Bonjour service disabled | Apple’s printer discovery service must be active |
| Firewall blocking traffic | Network settings may block device discovery |
| Outdated firmware | Some updates break AirPrint functionality |
| Router isolation settings | Some routers restrict local device communication |
Step-by-Step Fixes for “No AirPrint Printers Found”
1. Verify Printer’s AirPrint Compatibility
Start by checking if your printer actually supports AirPrint.
- Visit Apple’s official AirPrint printer list
- Confirm your model is listed
- If not listed, use the printer’s app (e.g., HP Smart, Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY, Epson iPrint) as an alternative
⚠️ Note: Some older printers support wireless printing but not AirPrint.
2. Make Sure Devices Are on the Same Network
This is the #1 reason for this error.
- Go to Settings > Wi-Fi on your iPhone/iPad
- Ensure the SSID (Wi-Fi name) matches the printer’s network
- Log into your printer’s interface or use the control panel to view connected network
Tip: Avoid using guest networks, VPNs, or mobile hotspots, as they may block discovery.
3. Power Cycle All Devices
Sometimes, simple reboots can refresh connections.
- Turn off your printer, router, and Apple device
- Wait 30 seconds
- Turn on your router first, then printer, then Apple device
This helps resolve IP conflicts and wake idle services like Bonjour.
4. Check Printer’s Network Configuration
Access your printer’s embedded web server (EWS) via its IP address. Look for:
- Bonjour / mDNS settings – must be enabled
- AirPrint settings – ensure it’s not turned off
- IPv6 – some devices fail to connect over IPv6; try disabling
Print a network configuration report from your printer to find this info.
5. Update Firmware and iOS
Incompatibility due to outdated software can cause AirPrint detection failures.
- On the printer:
- Go to Settings > Firmware Update
- Or check manufacturer website for latest version
- On iPhone/iPad:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update
Some firmware updates fix Bonjour or mDNS issues that block AirPrint.
6. Disable Router Isolation & Reboot It
Check if your router has AP Isolation, Client Isolation, or Guest Network options enabled. These features prevent devices from seeing each other on the network.
- Login to your router (typically 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1)
- Look under Advanced > Wireless Settings
- Disable isolation features
- Restart the router
Bonus: Update the router firmware to fix possible multicast handling bugs.
7. Manually Add Printer via IPP
If AirPrint auto-discovery fails, try adding your printer manually using its IP address (IPP protocol):
- On iOS, go to:
- Settings > Wi-Fi > Tap the “i” icon > Configure Proxy > Manual
- Open Safari and enter:
http://[printer_ip]/ - If interface loads, your printer is reachable
- Use a third-party app like PrintCentral Pro to add IPP printer manually
What to Do If the Printer Still Isn’t Found
Try a Different Printing App
Sometimes Apple’s native printing framework struggles, but third-party apps can bypass the limitation.
- PrintCentral Pro
- Printer Pro by Readdle
- Canon PRINT / HP Smart / Epson iPrint
These apps often support more connection methods beyond AirPrint.
Reset Network Settings on iPhone/iPad
If all else fails, try resetting network settings:
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings
⚠️ This will erase saved Wi-Fi passwords, VPN configs, and Bluetooth devices.
Prevention Tips: Avoid Future AirPrint Errors
🛡️ Printer Settings to Lock In
- Enable Auto IP Refresh
- Turn on Always Broadcast Bonjour
- Set Static IP on printer to avoid IP changes
⚙️ iOS Best Practices
- Always connect to private home/work Wi-Fi
- Avoid using personal hotspots for AirPrint
- Restart devices weekly to clear cache issues
Troubleshooting Summary Table
| Problem | Likely Fix |
|---|---|
| Printer not found at all | Ensure Wi-Fi match, enable Bonjour, reboot router |
| Printer used to work, now not | Firmware or iOS update needed |
| iPhone on VPN | Disable VPN or use printer’s app |
| Printing works from Mac, not iPhone | Recheck mobile’s network and update iOS |
| Guest network used | Switch to main Wi-Fi |
Conclusion
AirPrint makes wireless printing intuitive—when it works. But when met with the dreaded “No AirPrint Printers Found” message, knowing where to look saves time and frustration.
By methodically checking compatibility, network alignment, router settings, and firmware updates, you can quickly bring your printer back into your Apple device’s sights. Whether you’re at home, in a small office, or managing remote teams, these tips help you maintain a stable, wireless printing experience.
