How to Reset Default Printer Settings on a Mac

1. Introduction

When using a printer on a Mac, the default settings may not always be suitable for your specific needs. Whether it’s a change in paper size or printing orientation, resetting the default printer settings can be a simple solution. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to reset default printer settings on a Mac. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to customize your printer settings to match your printing needs!

1.1. Why resetting default printer settings is important

Resetting default printer settings is important for many reasons. Sometimes, printers can malfunction due to a variety of reasons, such as software updates or user error. When this happens, resetting the default printer settings can often fix the problem. Additionally, resetting default printer settings can help improve print quality and speed. It can also help ensure that your printer is properly configured to work with your computer and any software you may be using. In this article, we will discuss how to reset default printer settings on a Mac.

1.2. How default printer settings affect your printing process

Default printer settings can affect the quality and efficiency of your printing process. These settings control various aspects of printing, such as paper size, orientation, and color options. If your default settings are not configured properly, you may experience issues such as slow printing speeds, incorrect margins, or poor print quality. In this article, we will discuss how to reset default printer settings on a Mac to ensure optimal printing performance.

1.3. Common issues that may require resetting default printer settings

When using a Mac computer, printing documents and materials is a common task that many individuals engage in. However, there may be instances where the default printer settings need to be reset. This can occur due to a variety of reasons such as a software update, a change in printer settings, or a malfunction in the printer. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t worry! This article will guide you through the steps on how to reset default printer settings on a Mac.

2. Step-by-Step Guide to Resetting Default Printer Settings on a Mac

If you need to reset default printer settings on your Mac, follow these simple steps:

1. Click on the Apple menu in the top left corner of your screen.
2. Select ‘System Preferences’ from the drop-down menu.
3. Click on ‘Printers & Scanners’.
4. Right-click or control-click on the printer you want to reset and select ‘Reset printing system’.
5. Confirm that you want to reset the printing system.
6. Enter your admin password if prompted.
7. Wait for the printing system to reset and for your printer to reappear in the list of available printers.

Once you’ve completed these steps, your default printer settings will be reset to their original state. You can now set your preferences for your printer as needed.

2.1. Step 1: Access your Mac’s System Preferences

To reset your default printer settings on a Mac, the first step is to access your Mac’s System Preferences. You can do this by clicking on the Apple icon in the top left corner of your screen and selecting ‘System Preferences’ from the drop-down menu. Alternatively, you can search for ‘System Preferences’ using Spotlight search (the magnifying glass icon in the top right corner of your screen) and click on the corresponding result. Once you are in System Preferences, click on the ‘Printers & Scanners’ icon to access your printer settings.

2.2. Step 2: Select the ‘Printers & Scanners’ option

Once you have accessed the System Preferences on your Mac, you will need to select the ‘Printers & Scanners’ option. This option can be found towards the bottom of the System Preferences window, represented by an icon of a printer and scanner. Click on this icon to open up the ‘Printers & Scanners’ menu. From here, you will be able to see a list of all the printers and scanners that are currently connected to your Mac.

2.3. Step 3: Right-click on the default printer

Once you have accessed the Printers & Scanners menu, locate the default printer and right-click on it. A drop-down menu will appear with several options. Select ‘Reset printing system’ from the list. A confirmation window will appear asking if you are sure you want to reset the printing system. Click on ‘Reset’ to proceed. This will remove all printers from your list and reset all printing settings to their default values.

2.4. Step 4: Click on the ‘Reset printing system’ option

Step 4: Click on the ‘Reset printing system’ option

After opening the ‘Printers & Scanners’ menu and selecting the printer you want to reset, click on the ‘Options’ button located below the list of printers. From there, select the ‘Reset printing system’ option. A pop-up window will appear asking if you are sure you want to reset the printing system. Click on ‘Reset’ to confirm and wait for the process to complete. This will reset all printer settings to their default values.

2.5. Step 5: Confirm the action by clicking ‘OK’

1. Open the ‘System Preferences’ menu on your Mac.
2. Click on ‘Printers & Scanners.’
3. Select the printer you want to reset from the list on the left-hand side of the window.
4. Click on the ‘Options & Supplies’ button located on the right-hand side of the window.
5. Click on the ‘Driver’ tab.
6. Click on the ‘Reset Printing System’ button.
7. Confirm the action by clicking ‘OK’ on the pop-up window.
8. Your printer settings have now been reset to their default values.

3. Alternative Methods for Resetting Default Printer Settings

Aside from resetting your printer to its default settings through the printer’s software or settings menu, there are a few alternative methods you can try. One option is to simply unplug your printer from its power source and wait a few minutes before plugging it back in. This can sometimes reset any settings that may have been causing issues. Another option is to try resetting the printer’s network settings, which can be done through the printer’s control panel or settings menu. If none of these methods work, consult your printer’s user manual or contact the manufacturer for further assistance.

3.1. Method 1: Reset your Mac’s printing system from the Terminal

If you’re comfortable using the Terminal, resetting your Mac’s printing system is a quick and easy way to reset default printer settings. Here are the steps:

1. Open the Terminal app (you can find it in the Utilities folder within the Applications folder).
2. Type the following command: sudo pkill -f com.apple.print.
3. Press Enter.
4. Enter your admin password when prompted.
5. Restart your Mac.

After resetting the printing system, you’ll need to add your printers again and adjust any settings you had previously customized.

3.2. Method 2: Delete and re-add the default printer

Another method to reset default printer settings on a Mac is to delete and re-add the default printer. To do this, follow these steps:
1. Open the Apple menu and select ‘System Preferences.’
2. Click on ‘Printers & Scanners.’
3. Select the default printer from the list on the left-hand side.
4. Click on the ‘-‘ button at the bottom of the list to remove the printer.
5. Confirm that you want to delete the printer.
6. Click on the ‘+’ button at the bottom of the list to add the printer again.
7. Select the printer from the list and follow the steps to add it.

Once you have re-added the default printer, it should have reset to the default settings. If you still have issues with your printer settings, try one of the alternative methods discussed in this article.

3.3. Method 3: Use a third-party software to reset printer settings

If the above methods don’t work for you, you can try using a third-party software to reset your printer settings. There are several options available online, such as Printer Resetter Tool, Resetter Canon Service Tool, and HP Print and Scan Doctor. These tools can help you reset the printer to its default settings and fix any issues that might be causing problems with your printing. However, be sure to download these tools from a reputable source and follow the instructions carefully to avoid any potential risks or damage to your printer.