Can I setup my iMac as a print server

Hi, I would like to set up my iMac as a print server. I am running iOS Catalina 10.15.7 on my iMac and have a Canon MF4700 Series printer connected via USB. Is there a way for me to set up the iMac where I would be able to send a print job from another wireless device?


I want to thank you ahead of time.

Ralph


iMac 27″, macOS 10.15

Posted on Jan 22, 2023 10:16 AM

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Posted on Jan 22, 2023 10:46 AM

If your printer has wireless capability, there would be no need to set up your iMac as a print server. Check the specs & user guide for your printer.


That said, the way to share the iMac's USB-connected printer is to turn on Printer Sharing in System Preferences. See this KB article for more information -> Share your printer on Mac - Apple Support


Some experimentation may be involved. You will have to set up the shared printer on each of your other devices and that may also involve installing the printer drivers on each. This article provides some help in that regard,

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jan 22, 2023 10:46 AM in response to rsierra54

If your printer has wireless capability, there would be no need to set up your iMac as a print server. Check the specs & user guide for your printer.


That said, the way to share the iMac's USB-connected printer is to turn on Printer Sharing in System Preferences. See this KB article for more information -> Share your printer on Mac - Apple Support


Some experimentation may be involved. You will have to set up the shared printer on each of your other devices and that may also involve installing the printer drivers on each. This article provides some help in that regard,

Jan 22, 2023 10:26 AM in response to rsierra54

If the printer doesn’t have wireless connections ability, then you’ll need to make a Ethernet connection from printer to a Ethernet 5 port switch, or directly to a router that also has a wireless access point too.


This will give you wireless access if printer doesn’t support. If the printer has a Ethernet port on it, use this first for printer, then Wi-Fi if no Ethernet, then USB port last. This is based on security, speed to printer and time to print.


Both of these solutions, don’t require a print server. This will allow those who are connected to the printer network thru Ethernet or Wi-Fi to print.

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Can I setup my iMac as a print server

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