How to share printer on Google Cloud Print?

While Google Cloud Print was a popular solution for sharing printers remotely, it was officially discontinued on December 31, 2020. Therefore, it is no longer possible to share a printer using Google Cloud Print.

Understanding Google Cloud Print (Historical Context)

Google Cloud Print (GCP) allowed users to print from anywhere to any web-connected printer, without the need for printer drivers. It was a cloud-based service that connected your printers to the web.

How it Historically Worked:

1. Connecting a Printer: Users would typically connect their "classic" printers (non-cloud-ready) to a computer with Google Chrome installed. Chrome would then act as a connector, registering the printer with Google Cloud Print. Many users found the process straightforward; for instance, after clicking on a "printer option" within Chrome settings, the service would often automatically detect connected printers, such as a Xerox laser printer, simplifying the setup.
2. Cloud-Ready Printers: Newer printers, known as "Cloud Ready" printers, could connect directly to Google Cloud Print without needing an intermediary computer.
3. Sharing: Once a printer was registered with Google Cloud Print, users could share it with others by inviting them via their Google email addresses. The invited users would then be able to print to that shared printer from their devices, regardless of their location, as long as they had an internet connection.

Modern Alternatives for Printer Sharing

Since Google Cloud Print is no longer available, there are several robust and secure alternatives for sharing printers, whether within a local network or for remote access.

1. Local Network Printer Sharing

This is the most common method for sharing a printer with multiple computers connected to the same Wi-Fi or wired network.

How to Share a Printer on Windows

Windows makes it relatively easy to share a printer across a local network.

Steps:

1. Install Printer: Ensure the printer is installed and working correctly on the host computer (the computer directly connected to or configured for the printer).
2. Enable Sharing:
   • Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
   • Select the printer you wish to share, then click Printer properties.
   • Navigate to the Sharing tab.
   • Check the box Share this printer.
   • Give the shared printer a memorable name.
   • Click Apply, then OK.
3. Network and Sharing Center Settings (Optional, but recommended for troubleshooting):
   • Open Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center.
   • Click Change advanced sharing settings.
   • Ensure Turn on network discovery and Turn on file and printer sharing are enabled for your current network profile (Private, Public, or All Networks).
4. Connect from Other Computers:
   • On another computer on the same network, go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
   • Click Add device.
   • Windows will search for available printers. If it doesn't appear, click Add manually or The printer that I want isn't listed.
   • Choose Select a shared printer by name and type the path to the shared printer (e.g., \\ComputerName\SharedPrinterName).
   • Alternatively, browse for the computer hosting the printer.

How to Share a Printer on macOS

macOS also provides straightforward options for sharing printers.

Steps:

1. Install Printer: Add the printer to your Mac if you haven't already (System Settings > Printers & Scanners).
2. Enable Printer Sharing:
   • Go to System Settings > General > Sharing.
   • Enable Printer Sharing.
   • Click the i (info) icon next to Printer Sharing to select which printers to share and specify who can access them (e.g., "All Users" or specific users).
3. Connect from Other Computers (Mac):
   • On another Mac on the same network, go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners.
   • Click Add Printer, Scanner, or Fax... (the + button).
   • The shared printer should appear in the list under Bonjour or Default.
   • Select the printer and click Add.

2. Manufacturer-Specific Cloud Printing Services

Many printer manufacturers now offer their own cloud-based printing solutions, providing similar functionality to what Google Cloud Print once offered. These services often allow you to print remotely to your specific brand of printer from a web portal or dedicated app.

Examples:

• HP Smart: For HP printers.
• Epson Connect: For Epson printers.
• Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY: For Canon printers.
• Brother iPrint&Scan: For Brother printers.

3. Third-Party Cloud Printing Solutions

Several companies offer universal cloud print management and sharing services that work with various printer brands, often targeting business and educational environments.

Examples:

• Printix: A cloud-managed print infrastructure solution.
• PaperCut Mobility Print: Enables printing from any device to any printer without drivers.
• ezeep: A cloud printing solution for businesses and coworking spaces.

4. Virtual Private Network (VPN) or Remote Desktop

For more advanced users or business environments, setting up a VPN or using remote desktop software allows you to connect securely to your home or office network, enabling access to local printers as if you were physically present.

Key Considerations for Printer Sharing:

• Network Security: Ensure your home or office network is secure, especially when enabling sharing options. Use strong passwords for Wi-Fi and shared resources.
• Printer Drivers: While cloud solutions reduce the need for drivers, local network sharing typically requires the correct drivers to be installed on each client computer.
• Power Management: For remote printing, ensure the host computer (for local sharing) or the printer itself (for cloud-ready printers) remains powered on and connected to the internet.

By utilizing these modern alternatives, you can effectively share your printer with others, achieving the flexibility and convenience that Google Cloud Print once provided.