Install Printer Drivers on Linux - A Comprehensive Guide
Linux Printing and the Role of CUPS
Typically, the installation of hardware drivers isn't required on Linux operating systems. The system is designed to automatically identify connected devices and configure them accordingly.
However, printers often present a unique situation, requiring a slightly different approach to setup and functionality.
Understanding CUPS
Printing functionality on Linux is managed by CUPS, which stands for the "Common Unix Printing System." This system serves as the core printing infrastructure.
Interestingly, CUPS is also utilized by Apple's macOS operating system, and Apple actually owns CUPS.
Furthermore, the primary developer responsible for maintaining CUPS is employed directly by Apple.
CUPS and Cross-Platform Compatibility
This shared development and ownership explains the compatibility between Linux and macOS printing systems.
Essentially, the same underlying technology is used for print management on both platforms.
While Linux generally handles hardware detection automatically, CUPS provides the necessary framework for managing and utilizing printers effectively.
Leveraging the Foomatic Database for Printer Configuration
Related: A Guide to Installing Hardware Drivers on Linux
Typically, a graphical printer configuration utility is included with your Linux desktop environment. This tool simplifies the process of configuring CUPS and establishing printers. Printers can be connected through various methods, including USB cables and network connections.
Automatic printer detection and configuration are possible in certain scenarios. However, manual setup may be required for others.
Utilizing Printer Configuration Tools
Many Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, employ a printer configuration system originally developed by Red Hat. Similar functionality is present in other tools, as they all rely on CUPS as the underlying system. Initiate the printer configuration tool on your Linux desktop to begin adding a printer.
(On Ubuntu systems, access the System Settings and select Printers, or launch the Printers application from the Dash.)
The selection of a printer protocol may necessitate the provision of printer drivers. The configuration tool will present a list of drivers available within the foomatic database. Choose your printer’s manufacturer and then locate the corresponding model number.
If your precise printer model isn't listed, consider selecting the closest available model number as a potential alternative.
Testing and Alternative Configuration Methods
Following printer setup, it is crucial to print a test page. This confirms the correct operation of the selected printer driver.
Alternatively, the CUPS web interface offers another avenue for printer setup and configuration. While potentially less intuitive, it is universally accessible across Linux distributions.
Open a web browser and enter localhost:631 into the address bar, then press Enter. Navigate to the "Administration" section and utilize the "Add Printer" link to add a printer through the web interface.
You will be prompted for credentials. Input your Linux user account's username and password. In some cases, the username "root" and the root password may be required.
Obtaining a PPD File Directly From the Printer Manufacturer
The printer configuration utility also offers the option to utilize a PPD file. Many printer manufacturers make these files available for their respective printer models. These files are often included with the printer’s driver software on a disc, accessible via the manufacturer’s website download section, or even embedded within the Windows driver package for PostScript printers.
Locate the PPD file by browsing the manufacturer’s website or examining the contents of the driver disc. Alternatively, downloading the Windows driver and using a file-extraction utility to examine its contents is a viable approach. It’s possible to extract a PPD file even from an executable (.exe) file, potentially requiring a tool like cabextract.
A web search utilizing the printer’s model name in conjunction with the term "PPD file" can also prove fruitful. Other users may have already identified and shared a compatible PPD file for your printer. Once a PPD file is obtained, it can be installed through the printer configuration interface.
Leveraging the OpenPrinting.org Printer Database
OpenPrinting.org provides a comprehensive database of printers, coupled with suggested printer drivers for optimal performance. The system’s printer configuration utility is capable of locating and downloading PPD files directly from this resource. Alternatively, users can independently access the printer database on the OpenPrinting.org website to search for their specific printer model.
This database offers valuable insights into a printer’s compatibility, driver recommendations, and access to PPD files. If available, the PPD file can be downloaded directly and installed manually.
In certain instances, the database may direct users to proprietary drivers offered by the printer manufacturer. Installation of these drivers may be necessary for full printer functionality. It is often beneficial to conduct a search for your printer model alongside the term "Linux" to find relevant setup instructions.
Furthermore, refining your search to include your specific Linux distribution—such as your printer model and "Ubuntu"—can yield even more targeted guidance.
Troubleshooting Printer Issues
Ideally, connecting a printer to your system should result in automatic detection and seamless functionality. However, printers frequently present challenges for Linux users. The foomatic PPD file database aims to simplify printer integration, and OpenPrinting.org serves as a central resource for Linux printer setup guidance.
Despite these resources, certain printers remain unsupported and may not function correctly. Others might exhibit suboptimal performance. Furthermore, some devices necessitate proprietary drivers from the manufacturer, which can prove difficult to install or may be incompatible with current Linux distributions due to a lack of ongoing maintenance.
Exploring Alternative Solutions
For a significant number of printers, limited solutions are available. When selecting a printer for use with Linux, prioritizing models with explicit Linux support is highly recommended.
An alternative approach involves bypassing traditional printer drivers altogether. For instance, printers compatible with Google Cloud Print can be utilized from Linux via this service, circumventing driver-related complications.
A dedicated Google Cloud Print driver for CUPS exists, enabling most Linux desktop applications that support the standard CUPS system to print to a Google Cloud Print enabled printer.
Considering Paperless Options
If you are experiencing persistent printing difficulties, explore the possibility of reducing paper consumption. Documents can be saved as PDFs for digital storage. Alternatively, these PDFs can be transferred to another computer with a functioning printer for physical output.
Image Credit: jared moran on Flickr