MacBook Air unable to connect to LaserJet 1020, ethernet

[Janebfitz]

MacBook Air can't connect/see the HP LaserJet 1020. How do I connect the printer. It is ethernet, not wireless.

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Janebfitz,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

Connecting your MacBook Air to an HP LaserJet 1020 printer via Ethernet involves several steps. The HP LaserJet 1020 is a USB printer, so if you mention it's connected via Ethernet, it's likely through a print server or a network USB hub. Here's how you can attempt to connect it:

1. Check Printer Network Setup

• Print Server/Network Adapter: Ensure the HP LaserJet 1020 is connected to a print server or a network USB hub that's Ethernet-enabled. This device converts USB printer signals for use on an Ethernet network.
• IP Address: The print server or network hub should have an IP address. You may need to configure this via a direct connection to a computer first, or it might be automatically assigned via DHCP. Check the manual for your device for details.

2. Install Printer Drivers

• The HP LaserJet 1020 requires specific drivers. Although macOS typically has HP drivers pre-installed, you might need to update them or install the specific driver for the LaserJet 1020.
• Go to the HP website, find the support section, search for the LaserJet 1020, and download any macOS drivers available.

3. Add Printer to MacBook Air

• Go to Apple Menu > System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
• Click the + button to add a new printer.
• Since the printer is connected via a network adapter and not directly, it might not automatically appear. Click the IP tab in the printer addition window.
• Enter the IP Address of your print server or network USB hub.
• Under Protocol, select HP Jetdirect - Socket for most print servers. If that doesn't work, you might need to refer to the print server's manual for the correct protocol.
• macOS should automatically select the correct driver if it's installed. If not, you may need to manually select the HP LaserJet 1020 driver.
• Add the printer, and try printing a test page.

Troubleshooting

• Firewall/Antivirus: Ensure that any firewall or security software on your MacBook Air is not blocking the connection to the printer.
• Correct Network: Make sure your MacBook Air is on the same network segment as your print server.
• IP Address Conflicts: Ensure there are no IP address conflicts on your network.
• Update macOS: Sometimes, updating macOS can resolve printer connection issues, as it updates drivers and fixes bugs.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Rachel571 

HP Support