how to install an extension

[TCM16]

I have an hp desk jet plus 4155 that I use with my MacBook that currently is running on Sequoia 15.3.2. I have been receiving this alert from Apple: "Contact the developer for support because the extension needs to be updated or will be incompatible with a future version of macOS." Because of this, I have not updated my operating system in quite some time so as to not lose the ability to print from my laptop.  I don't know how to do what it is asking me to do.  Any advice would be appreciated.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @TCM16 

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for posting your query! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thanks for explaining the situation so clearly—and I completely understand your hesitation to update macOS when your printer’s functionality is at stake. 

You may receive compatibility alerts on macOS if the printer drivers or software extensions are out of date and need to be updated for newer versions of macOS. Here are steps you can take to ensure your HP DeskJet Plus 4155 All-in-One Printer remains compatible with macOS 12.0 Monterey and newer versions:

Update Your Printer Driver:

• Visit the HP Support Website.
• Enter your printer model, "HP DeskJet Plus 4155".
• Select your operating system (macOS 12.0 Monterey).
• Download and install the latest drivers and software updates.

HP Smart App:

• Consider using the HP Smart app, which is available from the Mac App Store. This app simplifies printer setup, manages printing tasks, and ensures you have the latest features and firmware updates.
• You can download HP Smart from HP Smart - Mac App Store.

Ensure MacOS is Up-to-Date:

• Before updating macOS, ensure that all printer drivers and software are updated to their latest versions so they are compatible with macOS updates.
• Regularly check the HP site for any new updates or patches.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye

[TCM16]

Hi,

Thanks for trying to help me.  Unfortunately, when I try to choose my operating system, there are none that apply to my laptop.  They are all versions of Windows and Linux.

So, I haven't been able to do anything.

Tina

[Hawks_Eye]

@TCM16 

I appreciate all your troubleshooting efforts and patience!

Thanks for laying it all out so clearly—this is a frustrating situation.

Here are a few additional steps you can try:

1. Use AirPrint Instead of HP Drivers

Your printer supports AirPrint, which is Apple’s built-in printing system that doesn’t require third-party drivers.

• Go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners
• Remove the existing HP printer if it’s listed
• Click the + button to add a new printer
• Select your HP DeskJet Plus 4155 from the list
• In the “Use” dropdown, choose AirPrint instead of the HP driver

This should allow basic printing without relying on the outdated extension.

 

2. Try the HP Smart App

Sometimes the HP Smart app can bridge the gap:

• Download it from the Mac App Store
• Open the app and try adding your printer through it
• It may offer updated support or at least allow scanning and basic printing

 

3. Use IP Printing as a Workaround

If your printer is on Wi-Fi:

• Go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners
• Click +, then IP
• Enter your printer’s IP address (you can find it from the printer’s control panel or HP Smart app)
• Set protocol to AirPrint or IPP
• Add the printer

Let me know if you’d like help walking through any of these steps. You’ve been incredibly patient—let’s get you printing again without having to freeze your OS in time.

Regards,

Hawks_Eye

[TCM16]

I don't see AirPrint as an option in the drop down menu.  I deleted it and then added it.  I'm afraid that if I update my laptop's software, I will lose the ability to use the printer and will have to purchase another.  This one is 4 years old and works perfectly fine.  I do not do a lot of printing.  Probably about 50 pages or so a year. 

I appreciate you trying to help.  Apple is trying to help also.

Tina

[Hawks_Eye]

@TCM16 

Thanks so much for sharing all that, and I completely understand your concern—especially when your printer is working just fine and you don’t want a software update to throw a wrench into things. 

You’re absolutely right to be cautious. Let’s walk through this together and keep things simple and safe. 😊

 

🖨️ What’s Going On with AirPrint?

AirPrint is built into most Apple devices and many modern printers, but it doesn’t always show up if:

• The printer isn’t AirPrint-compatible.
• The printer and device aren’t on the same Wi-Fi network.
• The Bonjour service (which AirPrint relies on) isn’t running properly on your laptop.

Since you mentioned reinstalling it and not seeing it in the dropdown, it’s possible the printer isn’t being recognized as AirPrint-capable—or the connection isn’t being established correctly.

 

✅ Steps to Try Without Risking Your Setup

Here’s a gentle approach that won’t interfere with your current setup:

Check Printer Compatibility

• Visit Apple’s official AirPrint support page to confirm if your printer model supports AirPrint.
• If it’s not listed, that’s likely why it’s not showing up.

Ensure Bonjour Is Running (on Windows)

• If you're using a Windows PC, AirPrint requires Bonjour Print Services.
• You can download it from Apple’s site and install it to help your printer appear in the dropdown.

Use a Virtual AirPrint Bridge (Optional)

• If your printer isn’t AirPrint-compatible, you can use a tool like O’Print or handyPrint to create a virtual AirPrint bridge between your printer and Apple devices.
• This lets you keep using your existing printer without needing to upgrade.

Avoid Updating for Now

• If your current setup works and you’re printing occasionally, it’s totally okay to hold off on updating your laptop until you feel confident everything will still work afterward.

I really admire how proactive you’re being—it’s clear you care about keeping things running smoothly without unnecessary changes. No pressure, just here to help! 💙

Regards,

Hawks_Eye

[TCM16]

Hi again,

I appreciate your patience with me.  The Apple AirPrint list includes Deskjet Plus 4155.  So, do you think I can update my Mac software and it will work?

Thanks for your help.

Tina

[Hawks_Eye]

@TCM16 

Thanks for getting back to us and updating us. 😀

May I know which version of Mac OS are you planning to upgrade?

The HP DeskJet Plus 4155 All-in-One Printer supports macOS versions starting from macOS 10.12 (Sierra) and continues to work with newer releases, including macOS 12 Monterey and macOS 15 Sequoia, thanks to its compatibility with Apple AirPrint.

Here’s what that means for you:

🍏 macOS Compatibility Highlights

AirPrint Support:
No need for separate drivers—your Mac can print directly to the printer using built-in AirPrint functionality.

HP Smart App:
For scanning and advanced features, you can use the HP Smart app from the Mac App Store. It works well with macOS 12 and newer.

Driver Availability:
If you prefer traditional drivers, HP provides downloads for macOS versions up to Monterey via their official support page.

If you're running macOS Sequoia 15.3.2 and seeing extension alerts, switching to AirPrint or using the HP Smart app should keep things working smoothly without needing outdated drivers. I’ve got you covered! 💪😄

Regards,

Hawks_Eye

[TCM16]

Hi,

Again, I want to thank you for sticking with me.  I am  currently running Sequoia 15.3.2 and want to upgrade to 15.5.    I've also reached out to Apple.  When I click on my printer to look at its information, it says -"Kind- HP DeskJet Plus 4100 series-AirPrint".  And the driver version is 4.0.  So, do you think this means I can use it with AirPrint?

Thanks,

Tina

[Hawks_Eye]

@TCM16 

Absolutely—and thank you for the kind words Tina! 😊 Based on what you’ve shared, it looks like your printer is AirPrint-compatible, which is great news.

The fact that it shows “Kind: HP DeskJet Plus 4100 series – AirPrint” means your Mac is recognizing it as an AirPrint device. That built-in support allows you to print without needing to install extra drivers or extensions. 🎉

Here’s a quick checklist to make sure everything’s ready to go:

✅ AirPrint Setup Tips

• Same Wi-Fi Network: Make sure your printer and Mac are connected to the same wireless network.
• Printer is On and Ready: The printer should be powered on and not in sleep mode.
• No Additional Drivers Needed: Since it’s showing as AirPrint, you don’t need to install anything else.
• Print Test: Try printing a document from any app—just go to File > Print, select your printer, and hit print.

If you ever want to access more features like scanning or ink levels, you can also use the HP Smart app from the Mac App Store.

Thanks,

Hawks_Eye