Symptoms
- App shows 'Searching...' indefinitely or 'No printers found'
- Printer is confirmed on and connected to Wi-Fi
- App worked before but stopped finding the printer after an update
- Different app or method (like AirPrint) can find the printer fine
Likely causes
- CommonPhone/computer and printer on different networksThe app typically searches only the local network the device is currently on.
- CommonOutdated app versionApp bugs affecting device discovery are common and often fixed in updates.
- PossiblePrinter's discovery/Bonjour/UPnP service disabled on the routerSome routers or network settings block the protocols apps use to discover printers automatically.
- PossibleOutdated printer firmwareOlder firmware can be incompatible with the current app version's discovery method.
What to do
- Confirm both the phone/computer and the printer are connected to the exact same Wi-Fi network.
- Update the manufacturer's app to the latest version from the app store or their website.
- Update the printer's firmware from its own settings menu or the manufacturer's utility software.
- Restart the printer and the device running the app.
- Check router settings for anything labeled UPnP or Bonjour/mDNS and make sure it's enabled, since these help apps discover devices.
- Try adding the printer manually by IP address within the app if a manual entry option exists.
- As an alternative, try connecting through the OS's built-in printing tools (AirPrint, Windows printer setup) to at least confirm basic connectivity while troubleshooting the app.
Tools and parts
- None
When to call a pro
If updating the app, firmware, and confirming the network still doesn't help, contact the manufacturer's app support, since this is often an app-specific bug rather than something a general technician can fix.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.