Geek Rewind

Set Google Chrome to Use System Default Printer

Richard

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This article outlines how to configure Google Chrome to use the system’s default printer by adjusting the PrintPreviewUseSystemDefaultPrinter setting in the Windows Registry. It emphasizes the importance of backing up the registry and provides guidance on creating and modifying registry keys. Rebooting may be necessary for changes to take effect.

This article explains how to set Chrome to use the System Default Printer as its default printer.

Google Chrome is a web browser developed by Google that runs on multiple platforms. It shares the same codebase as Microsoft Edge, making the two browsers nearly identical in their basic functionalities.

If you want Google Chrome to always use the system’s default printer, you can set the PrintPreviewUseSystemDefaultPrinter in your system registry settings.

The PrintPreviewUseSystemDefaultPrinter policy lets Google Chrome use the OS default printer as the default destination for print preview. If you do not set this policy to true, Chrome uses the most recently used printer as the default choice in Print Preview.

Use the OS default printer in Chrome

As mentioned, you can use the PrintPreviewUseSystemDefaultPrinter policy to configure Chrome to use the OS default printer as the default destination for print preview.

Here’s how to do that.

First, open the Windows Registry and navigate to the folder key path below.

Remember to back up your registry before making any changes, or create a System Restore point as a precaution.

Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Google\Chrome

In the registry key paths, if you do not see Google, right-click on the Policies key and create a new key named Google. Do the same for Chrome if it is not listed.

Once there, right-click Chrome > New > DWORD (32-bit) Value and name the new DWORD PrintPreviewUseSystemDefaultPrinter.

Double-click and open the PrintPreviewUseSystemDefaultPrinter name and set the value using the table below:

  • 1 = Use the system default printer as the default choice in Print Preview.
  • 0 = Use the most recently used printer as the default choice in Print Preview.
Set Chrome to use os default printer

Delete the “PrintPreviewUseSystemDefaultPrinter” name created above to restore the default behavior in Chrome.

PrintPreviewUseSystemDefaultPrinter

You may have to reboot your computer to apply the changes.

That should do it!

Reference:

Chrome Enterprise Policy

Conclusion:

  • Setting Google Chrome to use the system default printer streamlines your printing process.
  • The PrintPreviewUseSystemDefaultPrinter policy ensures consistency by using the same printer across applications.
  • Backing up your registry and creating a System Restore point are essential precautions when making system changes.
  • If necessary, revert to the default printing behavior by deleting the created registry key.
  • For more detailed insights and troubleshooting, refer to the Chrome Enterprise Policy.
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Richard
Richard, the owner and lead writer at Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast passionate about simplifying complex IT topics. His years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations have honed his ability to provide practical insights and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He’s deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions. He enjoys watching football, cheering for the Minnesota Vikings, and spending time with his family when he’s not writing or managing Geek Rewind.

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