Other factors contributing to this issue include router settings that do not support Bonjour—a protocol critical for AirPrint to function properly. For instance, printers such as the Brother MFC-L2700DW connect only through the 2.4 GHz band, so ensuring that both your printer and Apple device are connected to the same frequency band is vital. Additionally, incorrect network configurations or outdated printer firmware can cause problems. Performing a power cycle on your devices, including the router, printer, and Apple device, can often resolve these issues by refreshing the network connection. Furthermore, it is essential to verify that your printer supports AirPrint and that this feature is enabled. Some printers, like certain HP models, may require you to confirm the wireless connection and enable AirPrint through the HP Smart app. For Canon printers, it is recommended to ensure that the mobile device and the printer are on the same network. Attempt to reconnect the mobile device by forgetting the network and rejoining it. A power cycle of the router might also prove useful as a potential solution. Lastly, some users have managed to resolve the problem by simply restarting their printer and checking for software updates, suggesting that the solution can sometimes be as straightforward as ensuring all devices are running the latest software versions.
1. Basic Troubleshooting
Before tackling more advanced solutions, let’s start with some basic steps. After powering off each device, wait for three minutes before turning on the router. Wait another three minutes before turning on the printer. Continue waiting for three minutes before powering on the Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, or Mac). Finally, power on any other devices.
2. Rejoin the Apple Device to the Wi-Fi Network
If AirPrint cannot find supported printers on your network due to issues with the communication module, reconnecting the Apple device to the Wi-Fi network may resolve the problem.
3. Disable Private Wi-Fi Address in the Apple Device Settings
Apple devices use a Private Wi-Fi Address feature to enhance privacy. However, this feature can interfere with local network communication, which is necessary for AirPrint. Disabling the Private Wi-Fi Address in Apple device settings may solve the issue.
4. Disable Limit IP Address Tracking
The “Limit IP Address Tracking” feature, when activated on your Apple device, can interfere with the operation of the Bonjour protocol, affecting AirPrint. Disabling this feature might help resolve the issue.
5. Enable IPv6 on the Printer
IPv6 is essential for AirPrint in many IT environments, and if it’s disabled on your printer, the Bonjour protocol may be unable to locate the printer. Therefore, enabling IPv6 on the printer could be a solution.
6. Disable SSL for AirPrint in the Printer Settings
If SSL is enabled for AirPrint but the network is not configured correctly to support it, AirPrint service may fail to find compatible printers. Disabling SSL for AirPrint in the printer settings can resolve this issue.
7. Disable the VPN and Delete Its Profile from the Apple Device
AirPrint relies on the Bonjour protocol, which requires your device to be on the same network as the printer. A VPN can disrupt this requirement, leading to connectivity issues.
7.1. Enable Connect on Demand for the VPN
7.2. Edit the VPN Options
7.3. Disable VPN
7.4. Delete the VPN Profile
7.5. Delete the VPN App
7.6. Delete Other Apps
Some apps can interfere with AirPrint. Consider uninstalling apps such as:
8. Reset Network Settings of the Printer and Apple Device
Incorrect network settings on the printer or Apple device can prevent you from using a supported AirPrint printer. Resetting these settings might be the solution you need. Before proceeding, note your current network settings (Wi-Fi credentials, VPNs, etc.), as you’ll need this information to reconfigure both the iOS device and the printer later.
8.1. On the Apple Device
8.2. On the Printer
Resetting network settings might differ by printer model. Below is a generic guide using the Epson Artisan 800 series as an example.
9. Edit the Router Settings
The “No AirPrint printers found” error can occur when router settings prevent the Apple device from communicating with the printer, which may be due to conflicts with the Bonjour protocol. Modifying router settings can address this problem. Note that some settings discussed below may not apply or may be labeled differently on your router. Make adjustments using a web browser or the router manufacturer’s app.
9.1. Disable Block LAN to WLAN Multicast and Broadcast Data
9.2. Enable the 2.4 GHz Band of the Router
9.3. Enable IPv6 on the Router
9.4. Change the Security Mode of the Wi-Fi
10. Reinstall the Printer Driver on the Print Server
If the print driver or application on the print server is malfunctioning, it may impede the relay of AirPrint commands to the printer. Reinstalling the printer driver on the print server may solve this issue.
11. Reset the Printer, Router, and Apple Device
Malfunctions in the firmware of the printer or router, or in the OS of the Apple device, might block printer compatibility with AirPrint. In such cases, a reset of the affected devices may be necessary. Back up any vital data before resetting because the process will erase it. Also, for the router, make a note of the configuration settings needed to reconnect to the internet.
11.1. Reset the Printer
11.2. Reset the Router
11.3. Reset the Apple Device
12. Workarounds
In the interim, consider the following temporary solutions until the issue is resolved by Apple:
Print from another system, device, or phone.Utilize the manufacturer’s OEM app for printing (e.g., Samsung Mobile Print app or HP Smart).Connect a supported printer to the Apple device via a USB-C to USB adapter and print through it.Try printing by using the IP address of the printer.
