When your Lexmark MB2442adwe AirPrint not working issue prevents wireless printing from iPhones, iPads, or Macs, it disrupts your entire workflow. The MB2442adwe is a monochrome laser MFP that includes built-in AirPrint support, but network configuration problems, firmware bugs, or mDNS discovery failures can block Apple devices from detecting the printer. This printer troubleshooting guide walks you through concrete steps to restore AirPrint functionality without unnecessary hardware replacement.
Initial Network and Connectivity Checks
Before diving into advanced printer repair procedures, verify that your MB2442adwe meets the basic requirements for AirPrint operation. Both your Apple device and printer must connect to the same network subnet, and the printer must have a valid IP address with mDNS/Bonjour advertising enabled.
1
Verify Wi-Fi Network Match: On your iPhone or iPad, open Settings > Wi-Fi and note the network name. On the MB2442adwe, press the Home button, navigate to Settings > Network/Ports > Network Overview > Wireless, and confirm the SSID matches exactly. If the printer connects via Ethernet while your phone uses Wi-Fi, ensure both interfaces belong to the same network segment without client isolation enabled.
2
Check IP Address and Connectivity: From the printer's Network Overview page, record the IPv4 address. Open Safari on your Apple device and enter this IP address in the address bar. If the Embedded Web Server (EWS) loads, basic network connectivity exists. If not, restart your router, then power cycle the MB2442adwe by holding the power button for 10 seconds, waiting 30 seconds, and restarting.
3
Enable Bonjour/mDNS in Printer Settings: Using the printer touchscreen, go to Settings > Network/Ports > AirPrint or Bonjour. Ensure the setting is set to On. Some firmware versions bury this under Settings > General Settings > Network > Standard Network > mDNS. If you previously disabled multicast traffic on your router or access point, re-enable it—AirPrint discovery depends on mDNS broadcasts reaching your Apple devices.
Advanced Configuration and Firmware Updates
If basic connectivity checks pass but your Lexmark MB2442adwe AirPrint not working problem persists, deeper configuration issues or outdated firmware likely cause the failure. The MB2442adwe requires specific firmware levels for reliable iOS 15+ and macOS Ventura+ compatibility.
4
Update Printer Firmware: Access the EWS from a computer browser using the printer's IP address. Navigate to Settings > Device > Maintenance > Firmware Update, or use the Lexmark Firmware Update Utility. The MB2442adwe should run firmware version LW80.PR2.P245 or later for optimal AirPrint stability. Download the .fls file from Lexmark's support site if automatic update fails. Never power off during a firmware flash—this can corrupt the printer's controller board.
5
Reset Network Settings to Factory Defaults: On the printer, go to Settings > Device > Restore Factory Defaults > Restore Network Settings Only. This clears stale IP reservations, proxy configurations, or manual DNS entries that interfere with AirPrint. After reset, reconfigure Wi-Fi or Ethernet using the Setup Wizard, choosing DHCP for automatic IP assignment. Static IPs work but require correct subnet mask and gateway—DHCP eliminates these variables during troubleshooting.
⚠️ Important: Resetting all factory defaults erases address books, custom paper settings, and stored fax numbers. Always choose "Network Settings Only" unless directed otherwise by Lexmark printer support. If you must perform a full reset, export your configuration first through the EWS under Settings > Export Configuration.
6
Disable AirPrint Filters and Verify iOS Settings: Some enterprise networks apply Bonjour gateway filters or VLAN segmentation. On home networks, check your router for "AirPrint isolation" or "wireless client isolation" features and disable them. On your Apple device, ensure Private Wi-Fi Address is off for your network (Settings > Wi-Fi > [i] icon > Private Address). Also verify AirPrint isn't blocked by Screen Time restrictions: Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Allowed Apps > AirPrint must be enabled.
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Why does my iPhone say "No AirPrint Printers Found" for my MB2442adwe?
This typically indicates mDNS discovery failure. The Bonjour service on your printer isn't broadcasting to your iPhone, usually due to network segmentation, disabled multicast forwarding, or the printer being on a different subnet. Check that both devices share the same network and that your router allows Bonjour traffic. A router reboot often resolves transient multicast table issues.
Does the MB2442adwe support AirPrint over USB connection?
No. AirPrint requires a network connection—either Wi-Fi or Ethernet. USB connections to a Mac do not enable AirPrint; use the Lexmark driver package instead for direct USB printing. For wireless convenience, configure the MB2442adwe on your network, then add it through Settings > Printers & Scanners on macOS or through the Share Sheet on iOS.
How do I know if my MB2442adwe firmware is too old for current iOS versions?
Apple periodically updates AirPrint requirements. If your printer firmware predates 2022 and you cannot print from iOS 16 or later, update immediately. Check your current firmware level in the EWS under Device Information. Lexmark publishes compatibility matrices showing minimum firmware for each iOS and macOS release—these are available through the Lexmark printer support portal using your printer's serial number.