In the world of Ubuntu, setting up a network printer can be a task that requires some technical knowledge. There are several options to choose from, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on how to choose the best network printing option for your Ubuntu system. We will explore three main options: IPP (Internet Printing Protocol), LPD (Line Printer Daemon), and AppSocket/JetDirect.
The best network printing option for your Ubuntu system depends on your specific requirements. However, the preferred option is IPP (Internet Printing Protocol) due to its bidirectional communication, security features, standardized settings, query capabilities, and driverless printing capabilities. LPD (Line Printer Daemon) is a simpler option commonly used with older printers, while AppSocket/JetDirect can be an alternative if IPP doesn’t work well with a specific printer.
Internet Printing Protocol (IPP)
IPP is a modern standard for network printing. It offers bidirectional communication, providing more feedback and control over your printing tasks.
Features of IPP
- Bidirectional Communication: IPP provides detailed backchannel information about the current state of job processing, such as which page is currently being printed.
- Security: IPP offers superior options for security, including authentication/authorization and encryption of transferred data.
- Standardized Settings: With IPP, you have a specified set of names and values for print job options, making it easier to configure printer settings.
- Query Capabilities: IPP allows you to query the printer about its specific capabilities, such as color printing, supported paper sizes, duplex printing, and more.
- Driverless Printing: The latest evolution of IPP, called “IPP Everywhere,” enables driverless printing, eliminating the need for specific drivers or device-specific PPDs.
To set up an IPP printer on Ubuntu, you can use the following command:
lpadmin -p <printer_name> -E -v ipp://<printer_IP>/ipp/print -m everywhereIn this command, <printer_name> is the name you want to assign to the printer, and <printer_IP> is the IP address of the printer. The -E option enables the printer, and -m everywhere specifies the use of driverless printing.
Line Printer Daemon (LPD)
LPD is an older standard that is still commonly used. It works well but doesn’t provide as much control for users on printer settings per print job compared to IPP.
Features of LPD
- Simplicity: LPD is less complex than IPP, making it easier to set up and manage.
- Compatibility: LPD is widely supported by older printers.
- Limitations: LPD doesn’t provide authentication services or access control. All document management and formatting must be handled by the machine sending the document.
To set up an LPD printer on Ubuntu, you can use the following command:
lpadmin -p <printer_name> -E -v lpd://<printer_IP>/queue -m ljet4In this command, <printer_name> and <printer_IP> are the same as in the IPP command. The -m ljet4 option specifies the use of the LaserJet 4 (ljet4) printer driver.
AppSocket/JetDirect
AppSocket, also known as JetDirect, is a simple protocol that is widely supported by network printers. It is a “fire and forget” protocol without bidirectional communication or advanced features.
Features of AppSocket/JetDirect
- Simplicity: AppSocket is a straightforward, easy-to-use protocol.
- Wide Support: Many network printers support AppSocket.
- Limitations: AppSocket doesn’t provide authentication services or access control, and all document management and formatting must be handled by the sending machine.
To set up an AppSocket printer on Ubuntu, you can use the following command:
lpadmin -p <printer_name> -E -v socket://<printer_IP> -m ljet4In this command, <printer_name> and <printer_IP> are the same as in the previous commands. The -m ljet4 option specifies the use of the LaserJet 4 (ljet4) printer driver.
Conclusion
In summary, IPP is the preferred option due to its bidirectional communication, better control, security features, and driverless printing capabilities. LPD is still commonly used but offers less control over printer settings. AppSocket/JetDirect using the IP address can be an alternative if IPP doesn’t work well with a specific printer. Understanding these options will help you choose the best network printing option for your Ubuntu system.
To find the IP address of your printer, you can usually check the printer’s settings or consult the printer’s manual. Alternatively, you can try accessing your router’s administration page and look for a list of connected devices to find the printer’s IP address.
Yes, with the latest version of IPP called "IPP Everywhere," you can use driverless printing, eliminating the need for specific drivers or device-specific PPDs. This feature is available for printers that support IPP Everywhere.
You can check the printer manufacturer’s website or consult the printer’s manual to see if it supports IPP Everywhere. Alternatively, you can try setting up the printer using the IPP command mentioned earlier in the article. If it works without any driver installation, then your printer likely supports IPP Everywhere.
Yes, you can use LPD or AppSocket with a printer that supports IPP. However, it is generally recommended to use IPP for its advanced features and better control over printing tasks. LPD and AppSocket can be alternatives if IPP doesn’t work well with a specific printer.
To change printer settings using IPP, you can use the lpoptions command followed by the printer name and the desired option. For example, to set the number of copies to 2, you can use the command lpoptions -p <printer_name> -o number-up=2. You can refer to the printer’s documentation or the lpoptions manual for a list of available options.
Yes, IPP, LPD, and AppSocket are standard protocols that are widely supported by printers from various manufacturers. As long as your printer supports the respective protocol, you should be able to set it up and use it with your Ubuntu system. However, it is always recommended to check the printer’s specifications or consult the manufacturer’s documentation for compatibility information.
