i cant get my old OfficeJet5255 t0 scan to my newer MAC Airbook

[Dee469]

I need to get my HP OfficeJet 5255 to scan to my MAC Airbook. It prints just fine, but wont scan.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Dee469 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thanks for laying that out so clearly. It’s genuinely frustrating when printing works flawlessly but scanning refuses to cooperate—especially when you're expecting seamless functionality from an all-in-one device. I’m really sorry this is slowing you down.

Let’s walk through a few focused steps to help your HP OfficeJet 5255 scan properly to your MacBook Air:

 

1. Confirm Full Driver Installation

Even if printing works, scanning may require additional components.

• Visit the HP OfficeJet 5255 driver page.
• Download and install the HP Easy Start or Full Software Solution for macOS.
• Restart your Mac after installation.

This ensures the scanning utility and background services are properly configured.

 

2. Use HP Smart App for Scanning

macOS doesn’t always expose scanner functions through System Preferences.

• Download the HP Smart app for macOS.
• Open the app and add your printer.
• Select Scan from the home screen and follow the prompts.

If the app doesn’t detect the scanner, try connecting via USB and re-adding the printer.

 

3. Reset the Printing System

This clears any misconfigured entries that may block scanning.

• Go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners.
• Right-click (or Control-click) in the printer list and choose Reset printing system.
• Re-add your HP OfficeJet 5255 using AirPrint or the HP driver.

 

4. Check for macOS Compatibility Conflicts

Some macOS versions (like Monterey and newer) have caused issues with older HP scanning protocols.

• If you're running macOS 12 or later, ensure your printer firmware is up to date.
• You can check for updates via the HP Smart app or manually from the firmware section.

 

5. Try Image Capture Utility

macOS includes a native scanning tool that sometimes works when others don’t.

• Open Image Capture (found in Applications).
• Select your HP printer from the device list.
• Try scanning a document and saving it locally.

Let me know your macOS version or if you'd like help walking through any of these steps in real time. I’m here to help you get scanning back on track.

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