In late 2019, Google announced that Google Cloud Print would be discontinued by the end of 2020. This came as a shock to millions of people and businesses that relied on the service to print remotely, share printers across devices, and manage workflows through the cloud.
With Cloud Print gone, many users were left wondering: how can I now print from my Chromebook, Android device, or remote laptop without hassle?
The good news is that there are multiple alternatives—many of which are even more secure, reliable, and user-friendly than Google’s service. This guide explores these alternatives, highlighting the best options for home users, small businesses, and enterprises, while showing how Lexmark printers simplify cloud-free and cloud-enabled printing.
1. What Was Google Cloud Print and Why Was It Discontinued?
Google Cloud Print allowed users to:
- Print from anywhere with an internet connection,
- Share printers easily across accounts and devices,
- Connect printers directly to a Google account.
It was simple and quick to set up, which made it extremely popular. However, it also had drawbacks: Google admitted the system no longer met modern security and performance standards, and it was shut down on December 31, 2020.
2. Impact of Cloud Print’s Shutdown
- Home users: could no longer print directly from Chromebooks or Android devices via Cloud Print.
- Businesses: had to find secure ways to support remote and mobile workers.
- IT departments: needed to ensure compliance with privacy regulations like GDPR, while replacing Cloud Print with scalable solutions.
3. Cloud Print Alternatives for Home Users
3.1. Wi-Fi and Mobile Printing
Most modern printers, including Lexmark devices, natively support:
- Apple AirPrint,
- Mopria (for Android),
- Lexmark Mobile Print app.
These options let you print wirelessly from smartphones, tablets, and laptops without requiring a cloud service.
3.2. Printer Sharing in Windows and MacOS
Both operating systems allow printer sharing within a home network, so multiple users can access one printer without special software.
3.3. USB and Local Network Printing
For simple needs, connecting via USB or printing over a local Wi-Fi network remains a straightforward alternative.
4. Cloud Print Alternatives for Businesses
4.1. Print Servers
The traditional option is a print server—a local server managing all print jobs. This ensures security and centralized management, though it requires IT support.
4.2. Cloud-Based Print Management
Several providers now offer true Cloud Print replacements:
- PaperCut Mobility Print,
- PrinterLogic,
- UniPrint,
- Lexmark Cloud Print Management.
These services allow remote job submission, centralized control, and advanced analytics, all while providing higher security than Google’s original system.
4.3. Secure Print with PIN Codes
A popular feature for offices is PIN-protected printing, where jobs are held until the user enters a code at the device. This prevents unauthorized access to sensitive documents.
5. How Lexmark Simplifies the Transition
Lexmark anticipated the end of Google Cloud Print and built solutions to make the transition seamless:
- Lexmark Mobile Print: free app for iOS and Android.
- Lexmark Cloud Print Management: a fully managed, enterprise-grade cloud solution that enables secure, remote printing similar to Cloud Print—but with stronger compliance features.
- Confidential Print: built-in PIN-protected job release on Lexmark printers.
- Universal Print Drivers: easy setup for Windows and MacOS users.
These features ensure that both home and enterprise environments can adapt without losing functionality.
6. Comparison: Google Cloud Print vs Alternatives
| Solution | Type | Best for | Security | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Google Cloud Print (retired) | Cloud | Homes, small businesses | Low | Very easy |
| AirPrint / Mopria | Local | Homes, mobile users | Medium | Very easy |
| Lexmark Mobile Print | Local | Homes and SMBs | High | Easy |
| Print server | Local | Medium to large businesses | High | Moderate |
| Lexmark Cloud Print Management | Cloud | Businesses, remote workers | Very high | Easy |
| PaperCut Mobility Print | Cloud | Enterprises, global teams | Very high | Easy |
7. Real-World Use Cases
- Home user: Maria prints directly from her Android phone via Mopria to her Lexmark B2236dw.
- Small business: A local accounting office uses a Lexmark MB2236adw, with all employees printing securely over Wi-Fi.
- Mid-sized company: An IT firm deploys Lexmark Cloud Print Management to allow remote employees to print securely from any location.
- Enterprise: A multinational corporation uses PaperCut Mobility Print integrated with Lexmark devices to manage thousands of print jobs worldwide.
8. How to Choose the Right Alternative
- For home users: Wi-Fi, AirPrint, Mopria, or the Lexmark Mobile Print app are usually enough.
- For small businesses: a multifunction Lexmark printer with Wi-Fi and PIN printing offers convenience and security.
- For medium-sized companies: Lexmark Cloud Print Management or a dedicated print server is recommended.
- For enterprises: a global cloud solution such as PaperCut or Lexmark’s own cloud platform ensures scalability and compliance.
9. Conclusion
The shutdown of Google Cloud Print was disruptive, but it doesn’t mean printing has become harder. In fact, today’s alternatives are more secure, more reliable, and easier to use.
- Home users can rely on Wi-Fi, AirPrint, Mopria, or Lexmark’s Mobile Print app.
- Businesses can deploy print servers or fully cloud-based solutions like Lexmark Cloud Print Management.
By focusing on built-in features such as Confidential Print and integrating with enterprise cloud platforms, Lexmark ensures that users have all the tools they need to continue printing securely and efficiently—without depending on Google.
10. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still use Google Cloud Print?
No. It was permanently shut down in December 2020.
Do Chromebooks work without Cloud Print?
Yes. Chromebooks now support direct printing through AirPrint, Mopria, and Lexmark Mobile Print.
Does Lexmark offer a Cloud Print replacement?
Yes. Lexmark Cloud Print Management is a direct, more secure alternative.
Do home users need a cloud-based print service?
Usually not. Wi-Fi and mobile printing are sufficient for most households.
Which is better for offices—print servers or cloud services?
It depends on scale. Print servers suit small to mid-sized companies; enterprises prefer cloud platforms.
Is mobile printing secure?
Yes, when using Lexmark Mobile Print or Mopria. These solutions use encrypted connections.
Can PIN-protected printing be used at home?
Yes. Lexmark devices allow PIN-protected job release even in small networks.
Are cloud print services expensive?
They are subscription-based but often save costs by reducing IT workload and improving security.
Do all printers support AirPrint and Mopria?
Most modern Lexmark printers do. Older devices may require drivers.
Did Cloud Print’s shutdown make printing harder?
No. In most cases, alternatives are simpler, faster, and more secure than Google’s original system.
Cloud Printing Alternatives – How to Print Without Google Cloud Print