Adding a Printer in Ubuntu

Adding a printer under Ubuntu is straightforward. Go to System -> Administration
-> Printing to open the printer applet. From there, you can double-click New Printer to configure the device.

The first step in adding a printer requires specifying which kernel device communicates with the printer. The system will search for local and network printers. You also have the option to configure a local printer using a USB or parallel port, or a network printer. Although the local printer configuration is easy (select the detected USB printer or parallel port), networked printers require additional information.

CUPS Printer (IPP)—The Common Unix Printing System allows the sharing of printers between different Unix computers. You will need to provide a URL for the printer, such as ipp://server/printer name.

Windows Printer (SMB)—Windows printers are very common. In small offices, a user with a printer directly connected to a Windows host can share the printer with the network. You will need to provide the Windows hostname, printer name, and any username and password needed to access the device.

Unix Printer (LPD)—The Line Printer Daemon protocol is one of the oldest and most reliable network printing options. Most standalone network printers support LPD. For this option, you will need to provide the hostname and the name of the LPD print queue.

HP JetDirect—This is another common protocol for standalone printers. You only need to provide the hostname (and port number if it’s not the default 9100).

The printer configuration applet’s layout changes with each Ubuntu version. However, the core functionality remains the same. Use sudo apt-get install cups-pdf to add a printer for generating PDF files.

The second step for adding a printer requires you to specify the type of printer. If your exact printer model is not listed, chances are good that there is a model that is close enough. In the worst case, you can always select one of the generic printer options. Finally, you should name the printer. Give it a descriptive name so that you can recognize it later.

Source of Information : Wiley Ubuntu Powerful Hacks And Customizations