How to Connect Epson Printer to Google Cloud Print Services (Alternatives & Troubleshooting)

If you are looking for ways to connect your Epson printer to Google Cloud Print services, we have some bad news for you. Google Cloud Print, a service that allowed you to print from any device that was connected to the internet to any printer that was connected to your Google Account, has been discontinued by Google as of December 31, 2020. This means that you can no longer use Google Cloud Print to print from your devices to your Epson printers.

However, don’t worry. There are still some other wireless printing solutions that you can use to print from your devices to your Epson printers. In this article, we will introduce you to some of the best alternatives to Google Cloud Print and how to use them with your Epson printers.

We will also compare and contrast these solutions and help you choose the best one for your needs. So, let’s get started!

A BackStory of Google Cloud Print

Google Cloud Print was launched in 2010 as a solution to printing challenges across various devices. It allowed users to connect their printers to the service, making them accessible from any device with an internet connection. Integration with Chrome OS in 2011 made it possible to print directly from Chrome OS devices.

Over the years, Google expanded the reach of Cloud Print, enabling printing from Gmail, Google Docs and integrating with popular applications like Google Drive. However, the service faced criticism for security concerns and occasional reliability issues.

In November 2019, Google announced the discontinuation of Google Cloud Print, which was officially discontinued on December 31, 2020. Users were encouraged to find alternative printing solutions.

Competition and Positioning:

Google Cloud Print was a game-changer with its cloud-based printing, allowing users to print from any device with an internet connection. The seamless integration with Google’s ecosystem made it a go-to for those heavily invested in their services.

However, challenges emerged as native printing capabilities on operating systems gained ground, causing some compatibility and reliability issues. Despite its discontinuation, Google Cloud Print leaves a lasting legacy as one of the pioneers in remote printing, paving the way for alternative methods and innovative solutions.

While Google Cloud Print was innovative in its time, the changing landscape of printing technology and the need for more seamless and integrated solutions led to its eventual discontinuation. Users are now encouraged to explore the diverse range of printing options available in today’s digital ecosystem.

Alternative Cloud Printing Solutions for Epson Printers

While Epson Connect is the official replacement for the discontinued Google Cloud Print, there are other options available that may suit your needs just as well.

For example, PaperCut Mobility Print allows you to print from any device to any printer on your network, including Epson printers. Another option is Ezeep Blue, which offers secure and fast cloud printing for businesses of any size.

Epson Connect: The Official Cloud Printing Solution for Epson Printers

Epson Connect is the official cloud printing solution for Epson printers that allows seamless printing from all your connected devices.

Epson Connect system offers a range of exciting features and functions that can save you both time and resources, including email printing, remote printing, and iPrint App. You can also print from anywhere in the world using your smartphone, laptop, or tablet with just a few clicks.

Its compatibility with Epson printers ensures that you can print from any device without encountering any issues. With Epson Connect, you’ll have a reliable printing solution that will exceed your expectations.

Set Up Epson Connect: A Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps to set up Epson Connect and start printing from your devices:

1. Make sure your Epson printer is connected to the same network as your device.
2. Download and install the Epson Connect Printer Setup Utility from the Epson website.
3. Launch the Epson Connect Printer Setup Utility and agree to the End-User License Agreement.
4. Select your printer from the list that appears and click Next.
5. Choose Printer Registration from the options and click Next.
6. Read and agree to the terms for registering your printer to Epson Connect, then click Next.
7. Fill out the Create an Epson Connect Account form if you’re creating a new account. If you already have an account, select “I already have an account” and fill out the Add a new printer form.
8. Click Finish to complete the setup of Epson Connect for your printer.

Remember, you can also install the Epson iPrint app on your mobile devices to print and scan documents directly. Happy printing!

Registering Your Epson Printer with Epson Connect

To gain full access to the features and services Epson Connect offers, it’s crucial that you register your printer with your Epson Connect account. This ensures a seamless printing experience, allowing you to make the most out of your Epson printer. Follow these steps to register your Epson printer:

1. To sign in to your Epson Connect account:
2. Set up your Epson Connect account and printer.
3. Go to the Epson Connect portal and enter your username and password.
4. If you don’t have an account yet, click on “Create an account” and follow the prompts.

To register your printer:

1. On your account dashboard, click the ‘Printer’ tab.
2. Click the ‘Register’ button.
3. Enter the email address associated with your printer.
4. Click ‘Next’ and review the printer details.
5. If everything is correct, click ‘Confirm’ to complete the registration.

By registering your printer with Epson Connect, you’ve unlocked an array of powerful features, including remote printing capabilities and access to the Epson iPrint app. This is your one-stop solution for all your printing needs, simplifying your workflow and driving productivity. Enjoy your seamless printing experience with Epson Connect!

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Epson Connect

With any technology, there may be times when issues arise during use. Here are some common troubleshooting tips to resolve issues with Epson Connect:

• Check Your Printer Connection: Ensure your printer is connected to the same network as your device and that it is turned on.
• Reinstalling the Setup Utility: If you experience issues with the Epson Connect Printer Setup Utility, try uninstalling and reinstalling it.
• Restart Your Devices: Sometimes, a simple restart can fix any connection or communication errors between your devices and printer.
• Update Your Printer Drivers: Make sure you have the latest printer drivers installed. You can check for updates on the Epson website.
• Verify the Printer’s Email Address: If you’re having trouble registering your printer with Epson Connect, verify that you have entered the correct email address and it is associated with your printer.
• Contact Epson Support: If none of these troubleshooting tips work, reach out to Epson support for further assistance. They have a team of experts who can help resolve any issues you may be facing.

Keep in mind that a little maintenance and care will go a long way in ensuring a smooth printing experience. Happy printing with Epson Connect!

Exploring Alternative Cloud Printing Options for Epson Printers

Aside from Epson Connect, there are several other cloud printing options available for Epson printers. These alternative options offer different features and services that may better suit your needs. Here are a few worth exploring:

• Apple AirPrint:** If you’re an Apple user, you can easily print documents or photos directly from your iOS device using AirPrint. This is a great option for those who primarily use Mac products.
• PogoPlug: With this service, you can connect your Epson printer to the PogoPlug cloud and print from anywhere using their app or web portal. It also allows you to store and access your documents in the cloud for easy printing.**
• Dropbox Print: This option integrates with your Dropbox account, allowing you to print documents or photos directly from your cloud storage. It’s a convenient and secure way to print remotely.

Exploring these alternative cloud printing options can help you find the best fit for your specific needs and preferences.

Apps for Cloud Printing Solution for Epson Printers

There are also various apps available for Epson printers that offer cloud printing solutions. These apps provide added convenience and flexibility for your printing needs. Here are some popular ones:

PaperCut Mobility Print

PaperCut Mobility Print is a cloud-based printing solution that is compatible with a wide range of printers, including Epson printers. It is a paid service that offers a number of advanced features that are not available with Epson Connect, such as:

• Secure printing with user authentication and print job encryption
• Print job management features, such as print job hold and release
• Mobile printing from iOS and Android devices
• Document scanning and conversion

PaperCut Mobility Print is a good option for businesses that require a secure and feature-rich cloud printing solution.

Ezeep Blue

Ezeep Blue is another cloud-based printing solution that is compatible with Epson printers. It is a paid service that offers a number of unique features that are not available with Epson Connect or PaperCut Mobility Print, such as:

• Mobile printing from iOS, Android, and Windows Phone devices
• Document scanning and conversion
• Cloud storage integration with Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive
• Printing from web applications, such as Gmail and Google Docs

Ezeep Blue is a good option for users who require a cloud printing solution with a wide range of features and integrations.

uniFLOW

uniFLOW is a cloud-based printing solution that is compatible with Epson printers. It is a free service that offers a limited number of features, but it is a good option for users who only need basic printing functionality. uniFLOW is particularly well-suited for organizations that use Google Workspace, as it integrates with Google Drive and Gmail.

Features of uniFLOW:

• Free to use
• Supports all Epson printers
• Easy to set up and use
• Allows printing from computers and tablets
• Secure printing with password protection

PrinterShare 

PrinterShare is a popular app for cloud printing solutions on both iOS and Android devices. It allows you to print documents, photos, emails, and more from your device to any Epson printer. Some of its features include:

• Print from anywhere using the app or web portal
• Multiple file format support, including PDF, JPG, and Microsoft Office files
• Secure printing with password protection
• Print multiple copies and choose specific pages to print

With these apps, you can easily print from your mobile devices or access cloud storage to print documents remotely. These options provide added convenience and flexibility for users who primarily use their smartphones or tablets for work.

Additional Cloud Printing Services

In addition to the cloud printing services mentioned above, there are a number of other self-hosted printing solutions available. These solutions are typically more complex to set up than cloud-based solutions, but they offer more control over your printing environment. Self-hosted printing solutions are a good option for businesses that require a high level of security and control over their printing infrastructure.

Choosing a Cloud Printing Service

When choosing a cloud printing service, it is important to consider your specific needs and requirements. Some factors to consider include:

• The number of users who will be using the service
• The types of devices that will be used to print
• The security requirements of your organization
• The features that are important to you
• Your budget

Other Printing Options for Your Epson Printer

Aside from the above, there are several other printing options available for Epson printers. These options cater to different needs and preferences, so it’s important to assess your specific requirements before making a decision. Here are some of the alternative printing methods you can explore:

1. Direct Wi-Fi Printing: This method allows you to connect your Epson printer directly to your Wi-Fi network without the need for a computer or router. This is particularly useful for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets.
2. Epson Connect Printer Apps: Epson offers a range of mobile apps for different operating systems, such as iOS and Android. These apps allow you to print directly from your mobile device to your Epson printer connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
3. Network Printing: If you have multiple devices on your network, you can connect your Epson printer to the network router to enable network printing. This allows any device on the network to print to the Epson printer without the need for individual connections.
4. USB Printing: You can connect your Epson printer to your computer using a USB cable to enable direct printing. This is a straightforward method but limits printing to a single device.
5. Bluetooth Printing: Some Epson printers support Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to print wirelessly from Bluetooth-enabled devices like smartphones or tablets.
6. SD Card Printing: Some Epson printers have an SD card slot, enabling you to print directly from an SD card without the need for a computer or network connection.

The choice of printing method depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors like the number of devices you’ll be printing from, the type of documents you’ll be printing, and the level of convenience and connectivity you require.

Optimizing Your Cloud Printing Experience

After choosing a cloud printing service and setting it up with your Epson printer, there are a few tips you can follow to optimize your printing experience:

1. Secure Printing: Make use of the security features offered by your chosen cloud printing service, such as user authentication and print job encryption, to ensure that sensitive documents are not accessed by unauthorized users.
2. Print Quality: Some cloud printing services offer options to adjust print quality, which can help save ink and improve printing performance. Experiment with these settings to find the best balance for your needs.
3. Use a Reliable Internet Connection: Cloud printing relies on an internet connection, so make sure you have a stable and reliable connection to avoid interruptions or delays in printing.
4. Monitor Your Usage: Keep track of your printing usage to identify any patterns or trends that can help you optimize costs and resources. This is particularly useful for businesses with multiple users and devices using the cloud printing service.

With these tips in mind, you can make the most out of your chosen cloud printing solution and ensure a seamless printing experience with your Epson printer.

Helpful Accessories to Improve Your Printing Efficiency & Productivity 

Aside from choosing the right printing method and optimizing your cloud printing experience, there are also various accessories that can help improve your overall printing efficiency and productivity. Some of these include:

• Additional Paper Trays: Have multiple types or sizes of paper loaded at once, reducing manual paper changes.
• High Capacity Ink Cartridges: Reduces the frequency of replacing ink cartridges for high-volume printing.
• Wireless Print Server: Connects non-wireless printers to the network for easy printing from multiple devices.
• Epson Premium Presentation Paper: High-quality paper for professional documents and presentations.
• Epson Printer Stand: Organizes and provides easy access to Epson printers, some with additional storage space.
• Wi-Fi Range Extender: Improves Wi-Fi coverage for stable wireless connection in the printing area.
• Epson Scanner: Complements printing needs with dedicated scanning capabilities.
• Bluetooth Adapter: Enables wireless printing from Bluetooth-enabled devices to Epson printers.
• Printer Maintenance Kit: Ensures longevity and optimal performance of Epson printers.
• Label Printer (for Specific Needs): Complements regular printer for specific label printing needs.
• External Hard Drive: Allows direct printing of documents and photos without a computer.

By using these accessories, you can streamline your printing process and improve efficiency in your workplace.

Conclusion

Cloud printing offers a convenient and efficient way to print from anywhere, at any time. By choosing the right cloud printing service, optimizing your experience, and using helpful accessories, you can make the most out of your Epson printer and achieve professional-looking results in no time. Keep these tips in mind for a seamless and productive printing experience!