Description
Sometimes printing issues arise in macOS that will require a reset of the entire printing system. This method will delete all printers that are installed and reset the system back to the original factory settings. The method to reset the system varies slightly depending on the operating system version but the end results are the same.
Environment
macOS
Resetting the printing system
macOS Sonoma (14.x and newer)
Note: You will need to be an administrator to reset the printing system. Faculty and staff will need to run Privileges before being able to complete these steps.
- Go to - System Settings...
- Scroll down to Printers & Scanners
- Hold down the CTRL button and click on any printer in your list.
- From the menu that pops up, choose Reset Printing System...
- Enter your username and password and click Modify Settings.
macOS Ventura (13.x and older)
Note: You will need to be an administrator to reset the printing system. Faculty and staff will need to run Privileges before being able to complete these steps.
- Go to - System Preferences...
- Scroll down and click on Printers & Scanners
- Hold down the CTRL button and click on any printer in your list.
- From the menu that pops up, choose Reset Printing System...
- Enter your username and password and click Modify Settings.
Additional Resources
https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/reset-printing-system-mac-solve-a-problem-mh14001/mac
Additional Help
If you need further assistance, please contact the Bowdoin College Service Desk